OWC introduces Express 1M2 USB4 Enclosure, Delivering Blazing Speeds of 3151 MB/s

Today, Other World Computing (OWC) launched the Express 1M2, a USB4 drive that boasts impressive speed and versatility. As the fastest single blade NVMe drive offered by OWC, the Express 1M2 is purpose-built to optimize the performance capabilities of USB4-equipped Macs and PCs.

Designed with photo and video professionals, DITs, and performance enthusiasts in mind, the Express 1M2 delivers real-world speeds of up to 3151 MB/s. This blazing-fast drive offers compatibility with millions of existing Thunderbolt and USB-C machines and devices, providing users with unparalleled flexibility.

One of the standout features of the Express 1M2 is its ability to accommodate both OWC’s high-performance Aura SSDs and third-party NVMe M.2 SSDs in sizes 2230, 2242, and 2280. Encased in a secure and rugged enclosure, this compact drive is perfect for repurposing existing drives or expanding storage for files and backups.

With the introduction of USB4, users can experience significant improvements in speed and connectivity. The Express 1M2 fully embraces this technology by offering support for USB4, USB 3.2, USB 2, and Thunderbolt 3 & 4 devices. This means that users can connect to a wide range of past, present, and future devices, unlocking unprecedented data transfer capabilities.

When it comes to durability, OWC is for its reliable data storage products, and the Express 1M2 is no exception. Its solid aluminum heat sink design sets it apart from low-cost snap-together enclosures by effectively dissipating heat and ensuring consistent maximum performance without throttling. Additionally, the Express 1M2 is cross-platform compatible with Macs and PCs when used with OWC’s MacDrive software.

Larry O’Connor, founder and CEO of OWC, emphasized the company’s commitment to building products that prioritize data reliability and high performance. “The Express 1M2 is built to keep the drive cool and performance high, continuing OWC’s tradition of building products right vs. targeting a low-priced disposable commodity level,” he said.

The Express 1M2 is available for purchase in various options. Customers can choose to buy the drive empty without an SSD or opt for capacities ranging from 1 TB to 8 TB, with prices starting at $119.99. Whether you’re a professional in need of lightning-fast speeds or a consumer looking to enhance your storage capabilities, the Express 1M2 offers a compelling solution.

Technology Explained

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M.2: M.2, also known as Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), is a computer expansion card format that is designed to replace the outdated mSATA standard. It is thinner and longer than mSATA, which gives it a much higher data transfer rate. The M.2 format measures 22mm in width and can measure up to 110mm in length. It uses the M-key and B-key connectors to interface with PC host systems, and can connect to both SATA III and PCIe for data transfer. Due to its small size, M.2 is often used for ultra-slim laptops and netbooks, as well as in embedded SSDs for tablets and other mobile devices. It is also becoming increasingly popular in the desktop computer industry, thanks to its compactness and fast transfer speeds. This makes M.2 ideal for gaming PCs, workstations, and other demanding applications that require high levels of data throughput.

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NVMe: Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) is a newly developed technology that has been gaining traction in the computer industry. This technology is a standard interface which allows for high-speed storage and retrieval of data from solid state drives (SSDs). NVMe is designed to increase the speed of data transfers in storage systems by enabling a direct connection to PCI Express (PCIe) bus, resulting in significantly faster access times compared to traditional interface protocols such SSDs. NVMe is particularly useful for applications that require lightning-fast access to large amounts of high-value data. NVMe-based SSDs are being widely adopted in the computer industry and are being employed to power data centers, high-end workstations, and gaming machines to support lightning-fast data processing and retrieval, which unlocks possibilities for machine learning, real-time analytics, edge computing, and other cutting-edge applications. NVMe is proving to be an invaluable tool in the field of computing, offering immense

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SSD: A Solid State Drive (SSD) is a modern data storage device that employs flash memory technology to store data electronically. Unlike traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), SSDs have no moving parts, resulting in significantly faster read and write speeds. This leads to quicker boot times, faster application loading, and smoother overall system performance. SSDs are known for their durability, shock resistance, and energy efficiency, making them ideal for laptops, ultrabooks, and other portable devices. They come in various form factors, including 2.5-inch, M.2, and PCIe cards, and are favored for their reliability, quiet operation, and reduced heat generation

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USB-C: USB-C is a new type of USB connector that is quickly becoming the industry standard for connecting devices to computers. It is a reversible connector, meaning it can be plugged in either way, and it is capable of transferring data at speeds up to 10 Gbps. It is also capable of providing up to 100 watts of power, making it ideal for charging laptops and other devices. USB-C is quickly becoming the go-to connector for connecting peripherals to computers, such as external hard drives, monitors, and printers. It is also being used to connect smartphones and tablets to computers, allowing for faster data transfer and charging. USB-C is quickly becoming the industry standard for connecting devices to computers, and its applications are only expected to grow in the future.