This $2,200 8 TB SSD supports USB 4, active cooling, passkeys, an e-ink screen, and more

Introducing Iodyne’s Pro Mini Portable SSD

WTF?! Iodyne is known for designing high-end hardware tailored to video production professionals, and their upcoming Pro Mini “smart drive” is no exception. Packed with cutting-edge features, this portable SSD is a must-have for users who demand top performance without compromise.

Pre-orders are now available for the Pro Mini, set to be released in the first quarter of 2025. This ultra-high-end drive offers a unique combination of functions not found in traditional SSDs. The Verge reports that the 4 TB and 8 TB models will retail for $1,500 and $2,200, respectively, positioning them as premium options in the market.

One of the standout features of the Pro Mini is its impressive speed and advanced cooling system. While most portable SSDs rely on USB 3.2, the Pro Mini supports USB 4 and Thunderbolt, delivering speeds of up to 40 GB/s. The device also features dual AirJet solid-state cooling modules to prevent overheating and ensure consistent performance.

Another innovative feature of the Pro Mini is its e-ink screen, which eliminates the need for physical labels. This 2.1-inch display can show various information such as names, QR codes, bar codes, and logos, even when the drive is powered off for extended periods.

Security is a key focus of the Pro Mini, with support for passkeys and NFC transponders. Users can unlock the drive using PINs, biometrics, or other authentication methods on connected devices. The SSD also offers enterprise-grade encryption and RAID-6 data protection for added security.

Additionally, the Pro Mini features a rechargeable internal battery that allows for tracking using Find My apps on iOS and Android devices. Users can locate the drive, trigger audible alerts, or activate LED lights for easy retrieval.

With advanced data management capabilities, the Pro Mini stands out from the competition. Users can partition the drive into multiple sectors with different file system types, a feature borrowed from Iodyne’s Pro Data SSD. The company’s Fleet Management service and mobile app also enable remote content management across multiple Pro Mini and Pro Data devices.