SSD, ssd drives, solid state drives

A solid-state drive (SSD) is a data storage device that uses solid-state memory to store persistent data. Most SSD manufacturers use non-volatile flash memory - these SSDs, also known as usb flash drives, do not require batteries. They are often packaged in standard disk drive form factors (1.8-, 2.5-, and 3.5-inch).

Lower priced drives usually use multi-level cell (MLC) flash memory, which is slower and less reliable. SSDs based on volatile memory such as DRAM are characterized by ultrafast data access. DRAM based solid-state drives are especially useful on computers that already have the maximum amount of supported RAM.

In comparison with SDHC drives and HDDs, SSDs have faster start-up, fast random access, low read latency times for RAM drives, consistent read performance, silent operation, low power consumption and little heat, high mechanical reliability, ability to endure extreme shock, high altitude, vibration and extremes of temperature, lower weight and size. Failures occur less frequently while writing/erasing data.