by 93 reviews.
OWC Envoy Pro Elektron Portable 4TB SSD Review: A Compact Powerhouse for Professionals
The OWC Envoy Pro Elektron Portable 4TB SSD is a high-performance external storage solution designed for professionals and tech enthusiasts who demand speed, durability, and reliability. With its USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, this portable SSD delivers blazing-fast speeds of up to 1250MB/s, making it ideal for tasks like video editing, data backup, and large file transfers. Its rugged design, featuring an IP67 rating, ensures it can withstand harsh environments, while its compact size makes it highly portable. Whether you're a Mac, Windows, or iPad user, this SSD offers seamless compatibility and plug-and-play convenience.
Pros and Cons: What Customers Are Saying
1. Speed and Performance
The OWC Envoy Pro Elektron Portable SSD is a speed demon, and customers are raving about its performance. One user mentioned, "The data transfers are fast, and this serves the purpose perfectly thanks to that and its portability." Another customer highlighted its ability to boost their iMac's performance, stating, "Our iMac is noticeably faster and can handle more tasks." The NVMe-powered SSD ensures real-world speeds of up to 1011MB/s, making it a reliable choice for demanding workflows.
However, some users noted that the drive gets quite hot during extended use. One reviewer shared, "It gets really hot, which I find concerning. I place it on a laptop cooling pad when using it." While this hasn't caused any performance issues, it's something to keep in mind if you plan to use the drive for prolonged periods.
2. Build Quality and Durability
The Envoy Pro Elektron is built like a tank, and customers appreciate its rugged design. One user described it as "an extremely well-built tiger in this tank," praising its compact yet sturdy construction. The IP67 rating ensures it's crushproof, dustproof, and waterproof, making it a reliable companion for outdoor use or harsh environments.
Despite its durability, some users found the USB connection to be less snug than expected. One reviewer mentioned, "The connection doesn't appear to be as snug as I'd have expected, but so far, so good." While this hasn't caused any connectivity issues, it's worth noting for those who prioritize a secure connection.
3. Ease of Use and Compatibility
Setting up the OWC Envoy Pro Elektron is a breeze, even for non-tech-savvy users. One customer shared, "I am not tech-savvy, but this was as simple as plugging in the SSD and downloading Sonoma 14.5 OS." The drive comes pre-formatted with APFS for Mac and iPad users, while Windows, Chrome, and Android users can easily format it using OWC Drive Setup.
The SSD's universal compatibility is another standout feature. It works seamlessly with Macs, PCs, iPhone 15, iPad Pro, and Chromebooks, and includes a USB-C to USB-A adapter for added convenience. One user praised its versatility, saying, "I have it connected through a portable docking station so I can easily connect, charge, transfer files, and work."
4. Portability and Design
The compact size of the Envoy Pro Elektron is a major selling point. One reviewer described it as "a little drive that fits in your palm," making it easy to carry for backups or on-the-go use. Its sleek, aircraft-grade aluminum casing not only looks premium but also helps dissipate heat, ensuring silent and throttle-free performance.
However, the drive's small size might be a double-edged sword for some. While it's highly portable, its compact design means it can get hot during extended use, as mentioned earlier. Users who plan to use it for long durations may need to invest in a cooling pad or ensure proper ventilation.
Conclusion: Is the OWC Envoy Pro Elektron Portable 4TB SSD Worth It?
The OWC Envoy Pro Elektron Portable 4TB SSD is a top-tier external storage solution that combines speed, durability, and portability. Its blazing-fast performance, rugged design, and universal compatibility make it an excellent choice for professionals and tech enthusiasts alike. While some users noted concerns about heat buildup and a less snug USB connection, these issues don't detract from the overall performance and reliability of the drive.
If you're looking for a high-capacity, high-performance SSD that can handle demanding tasks and withstand harsh conditions, the OWC Envoy Pro Elektron is a solid investment. Backed by a 3-year OWC Limited Warranty, this portable SSD offers peace of mind and long-term value. Whether you're editing videos, backing up critical data, or transferring large files, this compact powerhouse won't disappoint.
Specification OWC Envoy Pro Elektron Portable 4TB SSD, Super Fast External SSD with up to 1250MB/s Performance, USB 3.2 Gen 2 and USB 2.0/3.0 Backwards and Universally Compatible, NVMe Powered Portable SSD:
Comments from Amazon:
This little SSD was easy to set up and works fabulously as an external drive for my ipad pro. The data transfers are fast and this serves the purpose perfectly thanks to that and it portability. I have it connected through a portable docking station so I can easily connect, charge, transfer files and work. If I want to move to a different place in the home and need all the “extras” it is still easy to grab and go.
Excellent little external SSD. I purchased to boost our 21.5 iMac 2019. I am not tech savvy, but this was as simple as plugging in the SSD and downloading Sonoma 14.5 OS. Time Machine and Migration Assistant did the rest, no reformatting or erasing required. Our iMac is noticeably faster and can handle more tasks.
This is a great HD. My wife uses it to back up her Macbook Pro. It is very fast and requires a small footprint.
This little drive fits in your palm. Easy to carry for BU anywhere. It gets really hot which I find concerning. I place it on a laptop cooling pad when using it.
A very well made external Hard drive. Fast, I got the 2tb version to back up my system in case of a crash or problem. It is well worth the cost believe me. And takes up hardly any room. Other World Computer always has great products.
I have been buying from OWC for a long time. Every thing has been very well made and has lasted me for years. While I have only had this drive a short time the quality is excellent and I expect it to last like their other products.
I purchased this device last week and installed it early this week to use as a primary drive to work in conjunction with the 1 TB SSD drive in the new Mac Studio I expect to arrive by the end of this month. This HD is SMALL, but an extremely well built tiger in this tank. The connection doesn't appear to be as snug as I'd have expected but so far, so good. No interruptions whatsoever when in use, and set up was a breeze. Based on just one week of use I obviously can't speak to long term use, but it clearly is a well designed and ostensibly well built unit I hope will last me a long time I highly recommend this product.