If you’ve got a spare SSD and need serious speed, the StorageKey Gen2 might catch your attention. This compact external enclosure supports Thunderbolt 5 and PCIe 4.0, promising transfer rates that rival internal drives without locking you into preinstalled storage.
StorageKey Gen2 brings high-end speed to portable storage
Currently being crowdfunded on Kickstarter, the StorageKey Gen2 is designed for users who want flexibility and fast data access. Unlike prebuilt drives, it lets you install your own SSD, supporting common sizes like M.2 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280.
That means you can repurpose a drive from an old laptop or PC provided it uses four PCIe 4.0 lanes. However, Key B drives aren’t supported, so compatibility checks are essential before backing.
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Thunderbolt 5 unlocks fast transfer rates
The big selling point here is Thunderbolt 5. It’s backward-compatible with Thunderbolt 4 and USB4, but you’ll need a matching port and a fast SSD to reach the top speeds. According to the manufacturer, the StorageKey Gen2 can hit:
- Up to 6,000 MB/s read
- Up to 5,000 MB/s write
Those are high numbers well above what many external SSDs can deliver. Still, real-world results will depend heavily on your hardware.
Cooling is a priority, not an afterthought
Speed means heat, and this enclosure comes prepared. It combines passive and active cooling, using an aluminum case with fins and a small internal fan. The fan operates at just 25 dB, which should be barely noticeable during use.
A thermal pad also helps transfer heat away from the SSD, keeping performance steady under load.
StorageKey Gen2’s key specs and features at a glance
Here’s what the StorageKey Gen2 brings to the table:
- Thunderbolt 5 interface
- PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe SSD support
- M.2 sizes: 2230 / 2242 / 2260 / 2280
- Aluminum housing with thermal pad
- Active + passive cooling (25 dB fan)
- Sequential speeds up to 6,000 MB/s read / 5,000 MB/s write
Flexible, fast and not for beginners
At $190 (not including shipping or duties), the StorageKey Gen2 isn’t cheap. You’ll also need to supply your own SSD and follow proper installation steps. For tech-savvy users, it could be a smart way to push data transfer speeds without paying a premium for bundled storage.
Deliveries are expected to start in March 2026, assuming the campaign stays on track. Just keep in mind: like any crowdfunded tech, there are risks.
