Intel, finally, released highly anticipated products, Optane SSD. The family of devices is based on 3D XPoint technology. According to Inter, it is the most advanced storage technology available on the market today. The list of advantages is not exhausted by high productivity, the density of components, low energy consumption, and “affordable price”. Theoretically, this type of memory is up to 1000 times faster and serves for up to 1000 times longer than NAND memory. Additionally, the Optane device of the same size fits 10 times more components than NAND.

Intel markets the new product as suitable for powerful desktop computers, workstations, and also gaming PCs for enthusiasts. The solution proposed takes two forms, HHHL expansion card that uses PCIe 3.0 x4 connection and 2.5-inch U.2 device. The first is capable of storing 280GB and 480GB, the second – only 280GB. U.2 is not the most popular connection type at the moment, but using the adaptor Optane SSD can be connected to an M.2 port.

If the performance characteristics of the drives sound convincing, “affordable price” does not. Optane SSD 900P comes at the price of about £300 for the 280GB PCIe drive and £530 for the 480GB version.

Previously released 16GB Optane memory module proved to be a pain in terms of installation and configuration. Whether Intel worked on it or not is unknown, so you might need a help of IT specialists.