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OWC OWCUS4EXP4M2 Express 4M2 USB4 (40Gb/s) Four-Slot NVMe M. 2 Enclosure - Up to 3200MB/s - Software RAID Compatible
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Product Features
Technical Overview
Engineered for reliability and speed, the Express 4M2 features a robust storage architecture with four M.2 slots that support NVMe SSDs. The USB4 host interface provides a 40 Gbit/s data pipeline, enabling sustained read/write performance up to 3200MB/s for intensive applications like video editing, database management, and virtualization.
The enclosure includes an integrated cooling fan to maintain optimal operating temperatures during extended use, ensuring consistent performance and drive longevity. Its 48W external power supply delivers stable power to all four drives, even under full load conditions.
Relevant factors for this section include Number of Solid State Drive Supported, Maximum Data Transfer Rate, Number of Total Expansion Bays. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The Express 4M2 stands out with its combination of high-speed connectivity, flexible storage configuration, and broad software support. It eliminates the need for internal drive bays or complex networking setups, offering a plug-and-play storage expansion solution.
High-Speed Performance
With USB4 and support for up to four NVMe M.2 SSDs, this enclosure delivers transfer rates up to 40 Gbit/s, significantly faster than traditional USB 3.2 or SATA-based solutions.
- 40 Gbit/s maximum data transfer
- Up to 3200MB/s sustained speeds
- Ideal for 4K/8K video workflows
Flexible RAID Options
Software RAID compatibility allows users to configure RAID 0, 1, 4, 5, 10, or JBOD arrays directly through the operating system, providing data protection, performance optimization, or simple storage pooling.
- Six RAID levels supported
- Software-based configuration
- JBOD mode for individual drive management
Cross-Platform Compatibility
The enclosure works seamlessly with macOS Sonoma 14.x, macOS Sequoia 15.x, Windows 10, Windows 11, and multiple Windows Server editions, making it suitable for mixed-environment deployments.
- macOS and Windows support
- Server OS compatibility
- No proprietary drivers required
Deployment / Use Cases
The Express 4M2 is versatile enough for professional and creative applications where fast, expandable storage is critical. Its external design and high-speed interface make it easy to integrate into existing setups without hardware modifications.
Common deployment scenarios include video post-production studios that handle large 4K or 8K media files, IT departments needing rapid backup targets for server data, and research facilities processing large datasets. The enclosure also serves as an excellent portable storage solution for field work or temporary project storage.
Media Production
Video editors and content creators can use the Express 4M2 as a high-speed scratch disk or project storage, reducing render times and improving workflow efficiency.
- Handles 4K/8K video files
- Fast access for editing software
- Portable for location shoots
IT and Backup
IT professionals can deploy the enclosure as a local backup target or temporary storage expansion for servers, leveraging its RAID capabilities for data redundancy.
- Server backup solutions
- Data redundancy with RAID
- Quick disaster recovery
Physical Profile
The Express 4M2 features a compact external enclosure measuring 5.50" high, 2.40" wide, and 7" deep, with a weight of approximately 3.97 pounds. Its sleek design includes ventilation for the integrated cooling fan and a durable construction that protects the internal drives. The external form factor allows for flexible placement on desktops or near workstations, with the included power supply and USB-C cable ensuring easy connectivity.
- Width
- 2.40" (60.96 mm)
- Depth
- 7" (177.80 mm)
- Height
- 5.50" (139.70 mm)
- Weight
- 3.97 lb (1800 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate setup and operation.
Highlights
- Supports up to four NVMe M.2 SSDs in 2230/2242/2280 form factors
- USB4 host interface with 40 Gbit/s maximum data transfer rate
- Software RAID compatible with RAID 0, 1, 4, 5, 10, and JBOD levels
- Includes integrated cooling fan for optimal drive temperatures
- Compatible with macOS Sonoma, macOS Sequoia, Windows 10/11, and Windows Server
- Compact external enclosure measuring 5.50" x 2.40" x 7"
- Includes USB-C 40Gb/s cable and external power supply
- Backed by a 2-year limited warranty
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Other World Computing |
| Manufacturer Part Number | OWCUS4EXP4M2 |
| Brand Name | OWC |
| Product Line | Express |
| Product Name | Express 4M2 USB4 (40Gb/s) External Storage Enclosure |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Type | DAS Storage System |
| Storage | |
| Number of Solid State Drive Supported | 4 |
| Maximum Data Transfer Rate | 40 Gbit/s |
| I/O Expansions | |
| Number of Total Expansion Bays | 4 |
| Controllers | |
| Non-RAID Mode | JBOD |
| RAID Supported | Yes |
| RAID Levels | 0, 1, 4, 5, 10, JBOD |
| Software RAID Supported | Yes |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Drive Interface | M.2 |
| Host Interface | USB4 |
| Total Number of USB Ports | 1 |
| Number of USB4 Ports | 1 |
| Software | |
| Operating System Supported | macOS Sonoma 14.x,macOS Sequoia 15.x,Windows 10,Windows 10 x64,Windows Server 2019,Windows Server 2016,Windows Server 2022,Windows 11 |
| Power Description | |
| Maximum Power Supply Wattage | 48 W |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Cooling Fan | Yes |
| Height | 5.50" (139.70 mm) |
| Width | 2.40" (60.96 mm) |
| Depth | 7" (177.80 mm) |
| Form Factor | External |
| Weight (Approximate) | 3.97 lb (1800 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | Express 4M2 USB4 (40Gb/s) External Storage Enclosure 1 x 0.7M (28") USB-C 40Gb/s Cable 1 x External Power Supply 1 x US Power Cable (2-Prong IEC C7) Support Manual for OWC USB4 Express 4M2(digital) |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
FAQ
How many drives can the OWC Express 4M2 enclosure support?
The Express 4M2 supports up to four NVMe M.2 solid-state drives. It accommodates drives in 2230, 2242, and 2280 form factors, allowing flexible storage configurations based on capacity and performance needs. This four-slot design enables significant storage expansion without requiring internal computer bays.
What is the maximum data transfer speed of this enclosure?
The enclosure features a USB4 host interface with a maximum data transfer rate of 40 Gbit/s. This high-speed connectivity supports sustained read/write performance up to 3200MB/s when using compatible NVMe M.2 SSDs, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications like video editing and large file transfers.
Does the Express 4M2 support RAID configurations?
Yes, the Express 4M2 is software RAID compatible, supporting RAID levels 0, 1, 4, 5, 10, and JBOD. RAID 0 stripes data across drives for maximum performance, while RAID 1, 5, and 10 provide data redundancy. JBOD mode allows each drive to function independently. Configuration is managed through the operating system without requiring hardware RAID controllers.
Which operating systems are compatible with this storage enclosure?
The enclosure is compatible with macOS Sonoma 14.x, macOS Sequoia 15.x, Windows 10, Windows 10 x64, Windows 11, Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2019, and Windows Server 2022. This broad OS support ensures it works in mixed-environment deployments, from creative workstations to enterprise server setups, without needing proprietary drivers.
What is included in the package with the Express 4M2?
The package includes the Express 4M2 USB4 (40Gb/s) external storage enclosure, a 0.7-meter (28-inch) USB-C 40Gb/s cable, an external power supply, a US power cable with a 2-prong IEC C7 connector, and a digital support manual. These components provide everything needed for immediate setup and operation.
Does the enclosure include cooling for the drives?
Yes, the Express 4M2 features an integrated cooling fan to maintain optimal operating temperatures for the NVMe M.2 SSDs. This active cooling helps prevent thermal throttling during extended high-performance use, ensuring consistent data transfer speeds and prolonging the lifespan of the installed drives in demanding applications.