OWC Envoy Pro EX SSD: Overview

2020-05-30 • SEND FEEDBACK •
Related: Other World Computing, OWC Envoy Pro, OWC Envoy Pro EX, SSD, storage, Thunderbolt, Thunderbolt 3, USB, USB-A, USB-C, weather events

OWC Envoy Pro EX Thunderbolt 3
OWC Envoy Pro EX USB-C

MPG tested the 4TB OWC Envoy Pro EX Thunderbolt 3 and the 4TB OWC Envoy Pro EX USB-C. Capacities available from 240GB to 4TB for both models.

The OWC Envoy Pro Ex monikor is a bit confusing because it covers two distinct products, the OWC Envoy Pro Ex Thunderbolt 3 and OWC Envoy Pro Ex USB-C as well as several older USB-A versions. Almost the same name, completely different products.

Key differences between the two:

• Both work on a Thunderbolt 3 port, but only the USB-C model works on a USB-C-only (non Thunderbolt) port.
• The Thunderbolt 3 model ships with a rubberized sheath (removable).
• The Thunderbolt 3 model offers substantially higher performance, although the USB-C model is already very fast.
• The USB-C model is significantly more compact and lightweight and can be used on computers with a USB-A port using the appropriate cable.
• The USB-C model can plug into certain USB-C video cameras.
• Significantly different form factors.

OWC Envoy Pro EX Thunderbolt 3

Ruggedly built, it’s not clear to me how any computer could survive if this SSD were ever damaged! The enclosure itself is extremely robust even without the rubber bumper. The rubber bumper can be removed, which slightly reduces the form factor, and surely allows better heat dissipation—probably wise at 85°F and hotter.

• Up to 2800 MB/sec
• Compact and portable
• Compatible with both Mac and PC
• Protective impact absorbing bumper
• Rugged MIL-STD810G drop test certified*
• Couples NVMe SSD and Thunderbolt 3 performance
• Integrated Thunderbolt 3 cable
• 3 Year OWC Limited Warranty

The durability of the built-in cable is surely the main durability concern—should the plug-end be crimped or damaged or plugged-up with crud, then the unit would need to be serviced and the cable replaced. Ditto for the end attached to the main body of the unit should something pressure it unduly, say while packed for travel (but the rubber bumper affords some protection there). OWC might consider some kind of protective cover for the plug-end.

OWC Envoy Pro EX Thunderbolt 3

OWC Envoy Pro EX USB-C

Less ruggedly built but still with a solid-aluminum shell, the USB-C model utilizes a separate USB-C cable (or USB-C to USB-A cable). This may be an advantage if compatibility is needed with a computer having only USB-A ports.

• Supercharged speed up to 980MB/s [test results show up to 1028 MB/sec]
• IP67 – Dust and waterproof*
• Compatible with both Mac and PC.
• Can direct-connect to devices like the latest USB-C cameras from Blackmagic Design
• USB 3.1 Gen 2 (Type-C)
• Thunderbolt 3 compatible
• 3 Year OWC Limited Warranty

OWC Envoy Pro EX USB-C

Read on for test results and conclusions/recommendations.