MicroSD cards have been the preferred option for portable storage, powering devices from cameras to handheld gaming consoles like the recently unveiled Nintendo Switch 2. While the microSD Express standard offers impressive speeds of up to 985 MB/s, it’s still outpaced by the performance of high-end SSDs. That said, a revolutionary storage format making waves in China is here to change the game, promising SSD-level speeds in a remarkably tiny design only slightly larger than a microSD card.
Meet the Mini SSD from Biwin, a standout discussed at Computex earlier this year. This compact drive measures just 15 x 17 mm—barely the size of a SIM card—yet it boasts sequential read speeds of up to 3,700 MB/s and write speeds reaching 3,400 MB/s, utilizing a PCIe 4.0 x2 interface. In contrast, the microSD Express used in devices like the Nintendo Switch 2 caps at 985 MB/s, while full-sized SD Express cards can theoretically achieve speeds of 3,940 MB/s.
Available in capacities of 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB, the Mini SSD is built to last, featuring IP68 dust and water resistance along with drop protection up to three meters. This impressive durability makes it ideal for field use or when swapping between different devices without the hassle of special care.
While Biwin dubs this innovation the Mini SSD, its internal code name ‘1517’ corresponds to its physical dimensions—a naming convention akin to JEDEC’s designations for various M.2 SSD sizes, such as 2280 and 2242.
Currently, the Mini SSD is still a proprietary format. For widespread adoption, it will require support from various manufacturers or formal recognition from an established standards body. Without this backing, it risks becoming a niche product.
The silver lining? Initial support has begun with updates to the GPD Win 5 handheld featuring AMD’s Strix Halo processor, and the OneXPlayer Super X hybrid laptop. The Mini SSD’s compact size allows for larger batteries and improved cooling, as noted in early reports from The Verge, showcasing its potential before it hits mainstream markets.
What about the future? Handheld gaming PCs are likely to be the first to adopt this technology, but imagine smartphones, laptops, and cameras benefitting from SSD speeds without the bulk of traditional expansion bays. Video editors could easily handle 8K footage transfers, game consoles could be slimmer and quieter while maintaining fast load times, and industrial applications could thrive, such as drones capturing terabytes of detailed imagery.
If the Mini SSD continues to deliver on its performance promises, it could signify a significant leap in storage technology, providing broad functionality within an impressively small form factor. While it awaits further industry support to cement its place in the market, its early appearances in notable devices suggest a bright horizon.
What is the Mini SSD and how does it work?
The Mini SSD is a compact storage device designed by Biwin, offering high read/write speeds through a small footprint via the PCIe 4.0 x2 interface.
Can I use the Mini SSD in my existing devices?
Currently, the Mini SSD is a proprietary format and may not fit in standard slots without additional support from manufacturers.
What are the advantages of the Mini SSD over microSD cards?
Mini SSDs provide significantly faster data transfer speeds and higher capacities while maintaining a compact design, making them suitable for diverse applications.
Will the Mini SSD support my gaming needs?
Yes, it promises high performance, making it ideal for gaming devices that require quick load times and large storage capacities.
In conclusion, the Mini SSD has the potential to reshape the landscape of portable storage, paving the way for innovations across various sectors. Don’t miss out on staying informed about the latest technology trends; keep exploring more at Moyens I/O.