China launches compact 2TB 'Mini SSD' that outperforms the microSD Express found in the Switch 2, while maintaining a minuscule footprint, at only 15x17mm - boasting remarkable speed and performance claims.
The tech world is abuzz with excitement over the latest innovation in external storage: the Mini SSD. This ultra-compact storage format, roughly the size of a microSD card but slightly larger in footprint, is poised to revolutionize the way we store and transfer data on portable devices.
Size and Design
The Mini SSD, measuring approximately 17x15mm, is slightly larger than a microSD card (which measures approximately 15x11mm). However, it is much smaller than full-size SD Express cards, which are about twice as large. The Mini SSD resembles a nano-SIM card tray system, making it easy to insert and remove, much like a smartphone SIM card. This design could be particularly beneficial for swapping storage in compact portable devices like handheld gaming consoles.
Performance
The Mini SSD's performance is its standout feature. It offers significantly higher speeds, with a maximum sequential read speed of about 3.7 GB/s and write speeds around 3.4 GB/s via a PCIe Gen4x2 interface using NVMe protocol. This makes it over three times faster than the microSD Express cards used in devices like the Nintendo Switch 2, which top out around 985 MB/s.
Comparison
| Feature | Mini SSD | microSD Express | Full-size SD Express | |----------------------|------------------------------|---------------------------|-----------------------------| | Size | ~17x15 mm | ~15x11 mm | Nearly twice the Mini SSD | | Max Sequential Read | ~3.7 GB/s | ~985 MB/s | ~3.94 GB/s | | Max Sequential Write | ~3.4 GB/s | Less than read speed | Comparable to read speed | | Interface | PCIe Gen4x2 NVMe | PCIe lane NVMe protocol | PCIe lane NVMe protocol | | Physical Format | SIM card tray-like slot | Standard microSD form | Standard SD card form | | Water/Dust Resistance| IP68 rated | Typically varies | Typically varies |
Applications
The performance advantages and compact design of the Mini SSD make it a promising choice for handheld gaming devices or other portable gadgets that need fast, high-capacity storage with easy removability. However, it is currently an emerging format without wide industry adoption or official JEDEC standardization, whereas microSD Express is already supported in mass-market devices like the Nintendo Switch 2.
Future Outlook
It is hoped that the Mini SSD technology will be adopted by more devices in the future. For the latest news, analysis, and reviews, follow Tom's Hardware on Google News. Pricing information for Mini SSD cards and their compatible readers is not available yet, but you can subscribe to the Tom's Hardware newsletter to receive updates directly in your inbox.
Current Usage
The Mini SSD is already being used in handheld gaming consoles, such as the GPD Win 5 and the OneXPlayer Super X. Its small package offers a compact solution for external storage, making it an exciting development for tech enthusiasts and portable device manufacturers alike.
However, at present, there is no information about potential competitors or alternatives to the Mini SSD in terms of compact, fast external storage solutions. As the technology matures and gains wider adoption, we can expect to see more options emerge in the market.
In conclusion, the Mini SSD represents a significant step forward in external storage technology, offering faster speeds and a more compact design than current solutions. While it is still an emerging format, its potential for revolutionizing portable storage is undeniable. Stay tuned for updates as this technology continues to evolve.
