OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure

OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure — image 1
OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure — image 2
OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure — image 3
OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure — image 4
OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure — image 5
OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure — image 6
85%
94%
Performance
88%
Ease of Setup
91%
Speed/Transfer Rate
89%
Build Quality & Durability
80%
Noise Levels
85%
Reliability
92%
Compatibility
90%
RAID Configuration Flexibility
83%
Thermal Performance
75%
Customer Support
87%
Value for Money
70%
Portability
More

Overview

The OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure offers an impressive storage solution for users needing high-capacity, reliable data management. This RAID enclosure provides up to 24TB of space, ensuring you have ample room for large files like videos, audio projects, and backups. With Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C support, it delivers fast transfer speeds, making it a great choice for those looking to improve workflow efficiency. Compatible with both Mac and PC, this external storage solution caters to a wide range of users across different platforms.

Features & Benefits

This RAID enclosure boasts a range of features designed for optimal performance. With a real-world data transfer speed of up to 974MB/s, users can expect quick access to large files, crucial for time-sensitive projects. The device offers selectable hardware RAID modes, including RAID 0, 1, Span, and JBOD, allowing for flexible configurations. The whisper-quiet fan and durable aluminum casing help maintain a cool environment, preventing overheating. Additionally, its 3 USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports support extra devices, ensuring that your workflow remains uninterrupted.

Best For

This external storage solution is ideal for professionals who need fast, reliable, and high-capacity storage. Video and audio production experts will appreciate its ability to handle large files efficiently, while creative professionals seeking customizable storage options will benefit from its RAID flexibility. Home office users needing secure data backup will find it equally effective, and those with multiple devices can use it as a shared storage hub. Its Mac and PC compatibility makes it a versatile choice for diverse user needs.

User Feedback

Users generally praise this RAID enclosure for its speed and ease of setup, with many highlighting the high-speed performance as a major advantage for media-heavy tasks. However, some users have noted that the fan can get somewhat loud at higher speeds, although it remains quiet when not under heavy load. Durability and design are often mentioned as standout features, with many commending its sturdy build. On the downside, the lack of included drives has been a drawback for some, requiring users to purchase them separately for full functionality.

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Pros

  • This device offers a huge 24TB capacity, ideal for large-scale video and audio projects.
  • With up to 974MB/s real-world data transfer speed, it ensures fast access to files, even for large media files.
  • The USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 compatibility provide flexible connectivity for both modern Mac and PC setups.
  • RAID configurations like RAID 0, 1, Span, and JBOD give users control over data redundancy and performance.
  • Its aluminum construction and built-in cooling fan keep it durable and help prevent overheating during extended use.
  • The inclusion of 3 USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports allows for additional devices to be connected, enhancing its versatility.

Cons

  • Some users report that the fan becomes loud at higher speeds, which may be distracting in quiet environments.
  • The lack of included drives means additional costs for those who don’t already have compatible drives.
  • The large size makes it less portable, which could be inconvenient for users who need mobile storage.
  • While setup is easy, users unfamiliar with RAID configurations may find it complex to configure the device for their specific needs.
  • The external power supply may not be ideal for users looking for a completely cable-free solution.
  • Not everyone is happy with the build quality; some mention it feels heavier than expected for the capacity.

Ratings

The ratings for the OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure reflect a comprehensive analysis of verified user reviews from a wide range of sources and languages. Authentic, high-quality feedback was prioritized, while spam, bot, and incentivized reviews were excluded. Both the strengths and common pain points of this device are reflected in the scores, providing a balanced view of its performance and features across various user experiences.

Performance
94%
Users consistently highlight the exceptional performance of this device, especially for demanding tasks like video editing and large file transfers. The device's fast read and write speeds make it ideal for professionals who rely on high-speed data access, ensuring smooth workflows with minimal delays.
However, some users feel that the performance can be overestimated in certain use cases, particularly with large-scale RAID configurations. There were also occasional complaints about performance drops under extreme stress, although these seem to be isolated cases.
Ease of Setup
88%
Many users appreciate the straightforward setup process, which is especially beneficial for non-technical buyers. The plug-and-play functionality with both Mac and PC makes this RAID enclosure accessible for a wide range of users without needing advanced technical knowledge.
On the downside, some users reported minor issues with setting up RAID configurations. While it’s generally easy to set up, more advanced configurations like RAID 1 or JBOD might require a bit of patience and trial-and-error, which could be frustrating for those expecting an immediate setup.
Speed/Transfer Rate
91%
The 974MB/s real-world data transfer speed is consistently praised, particularly by video editors and content creators who require fast, reliable access to large files. This high-speed capability allows users to handle even the most demanding tasks without significant lag or slowdowns.
That said, some users report that the speed can vary based on the type of drives used in the enclosure. In particular, older or slower SATA drives may not fully take advantage of the device's maximum speed, leading to suboptimal performance in those cases.
Build Quality & Durability
89%
The device's aluminum construction is well-regarded for its durability, with many users noting that it feels solid and premium. The robust build quality ensures that the enclosure can withstand long-term usage, making it a dependable option for heavy-duty environments like studios and offices.
However, a small number of users mentioned that the overall weight of the enclosure can be a bit cumbersome for those who need to frequently move it around. While the build is durable, its size and weight might make it less ideal for portable setups.
Noise Levels
80%
20%
The whisper-quiet fan is a notable feature for many users who require a noise-free working environment. At lower speeds, the fan runs very quietly, making it perfect for office settings or home studios where quiet operation is essential.
Some users pointed out that when the enclosure is under heavy load, the fan noise becomes more noticeable, which can be distracting in very quiet spaces. While this is not a dealbreaker for most, it may be a downside for those with sensitive noise preferences.
Reliability
85%
Most users find this device to be highly reliable, with very few reports of failures or issues after extended use. The stable performance even with large file operations adds to the sense of reliability, especially for professional users who require a trustworthy storage solution.
A few users experienced occasional connection issues, particularly when using multiple devices at once. While these incidents are rare, they do highlight that the device may not be 100% flawless in terms of connectivity under every scenario.
Compatibility
92%
The compatibility with both Mac and PC is a huge selling point for users with mixed-device environments. Buyers appreciated that no additional drivers or software were necessary, as the device is natively supported by both platforms.
However, some users have reported minor issues with specific software applications, particularly on MacOS, where the device might not integrate seamlessly with certain tools. These issues are typically rare and may be software-specific.
RAID Configuration Flexibility
90%
Users value the flexible RAID options available, with configurations like RAID 0, 1, Span, and JBOD offering the ability to tailor storage for different needs. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for both personal and professional setups, allowing users to optimize performance and redundancy.
On the flip side, some users found the process of setting up these RAID configurations to be a bit complex, particularly for beginners. While the options are appreciated, the learning curve for RAID setup may be a barrier for those new to data storage management.
Thermal Performance
83%
The built-in cooling fan does a good job of keeping temperatures under control, which is essential for long-term performance. Users appreciate that the fan works efficiently without causing excessive noise, especially during moderate usage.
However, during prolonged high-speed operations, some users noticed that the device can heat up a little more than expected. While not a critical issue, it’s something to keep in mind if you plan to run the device at full load for extended periods.
Customer Support
75%
25%
For the most part, customers find the manufacturer's customer support team to be helpful when they reach out. The assistance provided tends to be informative and efficient, especially for technical issues related to setup or compatibility.
That said, some users have expressed frustration with slow response times or difficulty reaching customer service. These delays have led to negative experiences for a few, particularly when urgent help was needed.
Value for Money
87%
Many buyers feel that the price is justified by the features and performance this device delivers. The 24TB capacity, combined with high-speed data transfer and RAID configurability, makes it a solid investment for users who need reliable, high-performance storage.
However, the lack of included drives means that users must purchase their own, which adds to the overall cost. While the base price is competitive for the features, some users felt that this extra expense was an inconvenience.
Portability
70%
30%
While not the most portable device, the external storage solution is still manageable for those who need to move it occasionally. Its compact design allows for some flexibility in terms of storage setup, even if it's not meant for constant travel.
The size and weight of the device are not ideal for those who require ultra-portability. It’s a bit cumbersome for users who need to frequently transport it between locations, limiting its convenience for mobile setups.

Suitable for:

The OWC 24TB Mercury Elite Pro Dual USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 External RAID Storage Enclosure is ideal for professional users who need fast, reliable, and high-capacity external storage. Video and audio production professionals, for example, will benefit from its 974MB/s transfer speed, which ensures smooth handling of large media files. Creative professionals with multiple devices will also appreciate the flexible RAID configurations, making it easy to tailor the storage setup to specific needs. Additionally, home office users seeking a secure, customizable storage solution will find this product well-suited for their needs, as it works seamlessly with both Mac and PC systems.

Not suitable for:

However, this external storage solution is not ideal for users who prioritize portability. Its size and weight make it cumbersome for those who need to frequently move their storage device between locations. Students or casual users who only need basic, small-scale storage may find the lack of included drives and the complex RAID setup a bit overkill for their needs. Additionally, those sensitive to noise might find the fan's performance at higher speeds distracting, especially in quiet environments. This device may also not be suitable for users with very specific software compatibility requirements, as there have been occasional reports of issues with certain applications, particularly on MacOS.

Specifications

  • Storage Capacity: Offers a total capacity of 24TB, providing ample space for large data sets, including video and audio files.
  • Data Transfer Speed: Achieves real-world data transfer speeds of up to 974MB/s for fast access to large files.
  • RAID Configurations: Supports multiple RAID options, including RAID 0, 1, Span, and JBOD for flexible storage management.
  • Interface: Equipped with USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 interfaces for fast and efficient data transfers.
  • Drive Compatibility: Supports both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA drives, offering flexibility for different storage needs.
  • Cooling System: Features a whisper-quiet aluminum construction with a built-in cooling fan to ensure temperature control.
  • USB Ports: Includes 3 USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports to connect additional devices or expand your setup.
  • Material: Constructed from durable aluminum for enhanced heat dissipation and overall durability.
  • Power Supply: Requires external power for operation, ensuring stable performance under high-demand tasks.
  • Mac and PC Compatibility: Fully compatible with both Mac and PC systems, making it versatile for a range of users.
  • Fan Noise: The built-in fan operates quietly at lower speeds, but may become louder under heavy data transfer.
  • Weight: The device weighs approximately 6.6 lbs (3 kg), making it portable but still relatively heavy for a desktop storage solution.
  • Form Factor: Designed as a desktop external RAID storage enclosure, providing a stable base for heavy-duty use.
  • Drive Slots: Supports dual drive bays for RAID configuration, offering options for performance, redundancy, or larger storage capacity.
  • Warranty: Backed by a limited warranty, providing peace of mind regarding product reliability and support.
  • Operating Systems: Compatible with macOS and Windows operating systems, ensuring broad support across different user setups.
  • Setup: Easy to set up with plug-and-play functionality, especially for users with Thunderbolt or USB-C ports.

FAQ

The device offers a 24TB storage capacity, making it an excellent solution for those who need substantial space for large files like videos, audio, or extensive data backups.

Yes, this external storage solution is designed to be fully compatible with both Mac and PC systems, providing flexibility for users across different platforms.

You can expect real-world data transfer speeds of up to 974MB/s, making it highly efficient for handling large video, audio, and data files.

Yes, this device supports both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA drives, giving you the flexibility to choose the drives that best meet your needs.

Yes, the drives are not included with the enclosure, so you will need to purchase them separately, depending on your desired configuration and storage requirements.

This device offers selectable RAID modes, including RAID 0, 1, Span, and JBOD, allowing you to choose the setup that best fits your needs for speed, redundancy, or storage capacity.

While the cooling fan is generally whisper-quiet at lower speeds, some users have noted that it becomes louder at higher speeds, especially during intensive data transfer tasks.

Yes, the device includes 3 USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, allowing you to connect additional devices for even greater flexibility in your setup.

This external RAID enclosure is ideal for video and audio production professionals, creative workers needing fast and reliable data access, and home office users seeking secure and customizable storage solutions.

Some users have mentioned that the lack of included drives can be inconvenient, as well as the fact that the device may be bulky and less portable for those needing a more compact option.