TerraMaster has pushed the boundaries of external SSD performance with the D1 SSD Pro, an 80Gbps enclosure that ditches fans entirely while still outpacing its closest competitor in key benchmarks. Unlike traditional designs that rely on active cooling, the D1 SSD Pro uses an aluminum chassis packed with radiator fins to dissipate heat passively, resulting in a near-silent operation even under sustained workloads.
This isn’t just a gimmick—benchmarks show the D1 SSD Pro delivering sequential throughput speeds that rival or exceed the OWC 1M2, a direct competitor in the 80Gbps space. Where it falls slightly behind is in 4K random workloads, where the OWC’s engineering gives it a modest edge. Still, the D1 SSD Pro remains a formidable performer, especially when paired with PCIe 4.0 or 5.0 drives.
The enclosure’s aggressive cooling design is its standout feature. During prolonged testing, the unit remained cool to the touch, with no signs of thermal throttling—a common issue in high-speed external SSDs. The trade-off? A hefty weight (10.5 ounces) and a design that prioritizes bulk over portability.
Key specs at a glance
- Interface: USB4 (80Gbps), Thunderbolt 3/4/5
- Dimensions: 4.75 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches
- Weight: 10.5 oz (aluminum chassis)
- Cooling: Passive (radiator fins), fanless
- Included cable: 6-inch Type-C (limited to 40Gbps)
- Price: $250 (unpopulated), $212.49–$249.99 (populated)
- Notable omission: Anti-skid feet (unlike the D1 SSD Plus)
The D1 SSD Pro supports the full range of modern interfaces, including USB4 (up to 80Gbps) and Thunderbolt 5, making it compatible with the latest high-bandwidth systems. However, the included 6-inch Type-C cable is a red flag—it’s labeled as 80Gbps but only delivers 40Gbps speeds. Users will need to provide their own high-speed cable to unlock the enclosure’s full potential.
A premium product with a few quirks
The $250 price tag is steep, especially when compared to the OWC 1M2, which retails for $200 unpopulated. That said, the D1 SSD Pro’s passive cooling and near-silent operation justify the cost for users who prioritize thermal stability over portability. The lack of anti-skid feet is a minor annoyance, but the inclusion of a rugged, zippered carrying case adds practical value for those who need to transport the drive frequently.
Performance-wise, the D1 SSD Pro excels in real-world scenarios where large file transfers dominate. In synthetic benchmarks, it trails the OWC 1M2 by a narrow margin, but the difference is negligible for most users. The enclosure’s true strength lies in its ability to sustain high speeds without throttling, thanks to its robust thermal design.
Who should buy it?
The D1 SSD Pro is ideal for power users who demand the fastest possible external storage without the noise of active cooling. Professionals working with 4K video, large datasets, or high-resolution files will appreciate its stability and speed. However, those who need a compact, portable solution might find the bulk and weight prohibitive.
For the price-conscious, the D1 SSD Pro isn’t a bargain, but its performance and thermal engineering make it a standout in a crowded market. If you’re willing to invest in a high-speed cable and overlook its size, it’s a compelling choice for anyone pushing the limits of external storage.
