The Rise of Mini SSDs: A New Era for Gaming Handhelds
Nintendo's decision to require the microSD Express standard for its next-generation Switch 2 console has propelled this storage solution into broader recognition. Initially introduced in 2019, microSD Express had remained largely unnoticed since the older models sufficed for general use and hardware compatibility was limited.
This new standard offers significantly faster data transfer capabilities, on par with internal SSDs, which are crucial for the enhanced gaming experiences provided by powerful devices like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S and X, and high-performance PCs.
In a noteworthy advancement, a Chinese firm, Biwin, is pushing the boundaries with its "Mini SSD." This compact storage device measures just 15 by 17 mm and boasts impressive read speeds due to its two-lane PCI Express 4.0 interface. Comparable microSD Express cards can achieve similar speeds, but current market options typically max out at lower speeds.
The Mini SSD concept leverages LGA packaging to integrate NAND chips with an SSD controller, seamlessly fitting into devices like a SIM card. This innovation is already gaining traction with gaming handhelds such as the GPD Win 5 and OneXPlayer Super X integrating support for Biwin's cards, offering capacity choices from 500GB to 2TB.
While not yet a standardized product, the Mini SSD addresses a key need in gaming – providing fast, easily upgradable storage without the need for complex system modifications.
The increasing size of modern games necessitates such advancements. With a 2023 report highlighting a 6.3GB average annual increase in game sizes over the past decade, driven by improved graphics, enhanced audio capabilities, and wide-ranging language support, the demand for quick and competent storage solutions has never been higher.
For instance, the Mac version of Cyberpunk 2077 expands to 159GB primarily due to comprehensive language files necessitated by App Store policies – a stark contrast to its 92GB counterpart on other platforms.
Ultimately, whether it’s the burgeoning Mini SSD, evolving microSD Express technologies, or another future innovation, these developments will profoundly impact how we experience portable gaming.
Image Credit: Biwin
