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OWC Storage Prices Rise Up to 30% Due to AI Demand

other · 2026-05-06

OWC has implemented price increases across its memory card and SSD product lines, with the largest jump being 30% for the 1TB Express 1M2 USB4 External SSD, now priced at $429.99. The average increase is about 6% compared to April. Notable hikes include 14% for the 480GB Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A card ($319.99) and the 2TB Atlas Ultra CFexpress 4.0 Type B card ($1,249.99). The 960GB Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A card rose 11% to $629.99. OWC attributes the volatility to AI-fueled demand straining flash and NAND supply chains. Some products remain unchanged, but prices have been climbing since late last year.

Key facts

  • OWC storage prices increased in May 2026.
  • Average price rise is 6% compared to April.
  • Largest increase: 30% for 1TB Express 1M2 USB4 External SSD ($329.99 to $429.99).
  • 480GB Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A card now $319.99 (14% increase).
  • 2TB Atlas Ultra CFexpress 4.0 Type B card now $1,249.99 (14% increase).
  • 960GB Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A card now $629.99 (11% increase).
  • 80G version of Express 1M2 SSD increased 24% to $494.99.
  • 8TB Express 1M2 USB4 External SSD increased 21% to $2,099.99.
  • AI data demands are driving flash storage price increases industry-wide.
  • OWC states it absorbs costs where possible and keeps adjustments minimal.

Entities

Institutions

  • OWC
  • PetaPixel
  • DCWatch

Locations

  • Japan
  • United States

Sources