The first batch of Thunderbolt 5 SSDs are en route.
The long-awaited rollout of Thunderbolt 5 hardware is finally gaining momentum, and with it comes the promise of faster external storage solutions. After the release of the first Thunderbolt 5 cables in July 2024 and the debut of the first Thunderbolt 5 dock last September, it’s finally time for consumers to take the leap into this cutting-edge technology. Leading brands like Seagate, OWC, and Sabrent are now introducing their first Thunderbolt 5 SSDs, promising unparalleled speed and performance—but is the market truly ready for this next-generation hardware?
A Closer Look at Thunderbolt 5 SSDs: What’s Available Now?
Seagate’s LaCie Rugged SSD Pro5
Seagate has made waves with the unveiling of its new LaCie Rugged SSD Pro5 at CES 2025. Available later this month, this drive promises industry-leading performance, with read speeds of up to 6,700MB/s and write speeds of 5,300MB/s. The drive will come in two capacities: a 2TB model priced at $399.99 and a 4TB version at $599.99.
Like previous entries in the LaCie Rugged lineup, the SSD Pro5 boasts a durable rubber enclosure available in blue, black, and orange. Built to withstand harsh conditions, the drive can survive drops from heights of up to three meters and is certified IP68 waterproof, meaning it can endure complete submersion in up to one meter of water. For professionals working in demanding environments, this drive offers both reliability and speed in a rugged package.
Sabrent Rocket XTRM 5: Still in Preorder
Sabrent made headlines as one of the first companies to announce a Thunderbolt 5 SSD last August. Its upcoming Rocket XTRM 5 is encased in a silicone sleeve for added protection and boasts impressive read and write speeds of 6,000MB/s and 5,000MB/s, respectively. This SSD will be available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB configurations. However, it’s important to note that the Rocket XTRM 5 remains in the preorder stage, with no confirmed release date beyond availability on Sabrent’s website.
OWC Envoy Ultra Thunderbolt 5 SSD
OWC has also joined the Thunderbolt 5 revolution with its Envoy Ultra Thunderbolt 5 SSD, announced in September 2024. Featuring a robust design that is water-resistant, dust-resistant, and crushproof, the Envoy Ultra promises read speeds exceeding 6,000MB/s. Initially priced at $399.99 for the 2TB model and $599.99 for the 4TB version, the drive has experienced strong demand, with early shipments selling out. It remains available for preorder, with new units expected to ship by mid-January 2025.
For DIY Enthusiasts: Thunderbolt 5-Compatible SSD Enclosures
If you prefer to build your own external drive, several Thunderbolt 5-compatible enclosures have entered the market. These enclosures allow you to pair your choice of NVMe SSD with the blazing speeds of Thunderbolt 5, offering a more customizable and potentially cost-effective solution.
The Promise—and Pitfalls—of Thunderbolt 5
While the performance gains of Thunderbolt 5 are undeniable, early adopters should be prepared for potential challenges. Mark Hachman, senior editor at PCWorld, recently shared his experience testing a Thunderbolt 5 setup that included a Maingear ML-17 laptop, Kensington’s Thunderbolt 5 dock, OWC’s Envoy Ultra SSD, and Acer’s Nitro XV5 displays. Despite the promising specs of each component, the setup was plagued by laggy performance and slow transfer speeds.
According to Hachman, the issues stem from the bleeding-edge nature of the technology. “When you buy (or test) bleeding-edge hardware, sometimes you’re the one that ends up with the cuts,” he noted, summarizing the teething problems often associated with early adoption of new standards.
Should You Upgrade to Thunderbolt 5 Now?
The question remains: Is it worth investing in Thunderbolt 5 today?
The Case for Upgrading
For professionals working with large datasets, high-resolution video editing, or 3D rendering, the speed gains offered by Thunderbolt 5 SSDs are a game-changer. The ability to transfer massive files in seconds can significantly enhance productivity. Moreover, the rugged designs and high capacities of drives like Seagate’s LaCie Rugged SSD Pro5 and OWC’s Envoy Ultra make them ideal for creative professionals who need reliability in the field.
The Case for Waiting
On the other hand, Thunderbolt 5 technology is still in its infancy. The slow rollout of compatible hardware and reports of compatibility issues suggest that the ecosystem isn’t fully mature yet. Early adopters may face challenges with setup, performance consistency, and limited availability of accessories. Prices are also at a premium, so waiting for broader adoption could lead to more affordable options in the future.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for External Storage
Thunderbolt 5 represents a significant leap forward in external storage technology, offering unprecedented speed and versatility. While the current selection of SSDs is impressive, the ecosystem as a whole still has some growing pains to overcome. Whether you choose to jump in now or wait for the technology to mature, Thunderbolt 5 is undoubtedly paving the way for the next generation of high-performance external storage.
If you’re ready to embrace the future, the LaCie Rugged SSD Pro5, OWC Envoy Ultra, and Sabrent Rocket XTRM 5 are solid starting points. Just remember: with bleeding-edge tech, patience is often the price of innovation.
