Any idea how to connect 16 tb with ssd speed to MacBook M1?

[PeterJP]

But then the network approach is somewhat future proof, subject to less potential risk, and is a sound investment due to easier maintenance and flexibility down the road. Matter of fact when someone comes with a "16-32TB" hot data requirement, I would first look at network solution due to the sheer volume and the associated backup needs that come with it. Prices of 10GbE network components are also getting into pro-/consumer friendly range lately.

True. I was happily surprised the Mac mini came with a 10GbE option and very affordable, too. And storage needs only go up. When I started here at work, we had around 150TB. Now, 2 years later, I just ordered more to get us to a petabyte 🤣We're stretching the limits of the 10GbE network when everybody's editing video at the same time.