CES 2018 | Intel showcases 58 GB and 118 GB Optane 800p SSDs

Intel’s Optane M.2 memory modules did not impress too much in 2017, even though it was specifically stated that those models were more of a test run, rather than the final product, identifying them as cache devices. The testers who tried these found out that the memory is prone to failures more often than not and Intel mentioned that they would add in a respectable warranty. To hype things up again, Intel presented new Optane products at CES 2018, this time bringing two Optane modules from the 800p lineup that features the same PCIe 3.0 X2 controller, but provides twice the write endurance rating and additional power management options. These new models have increased capacities and can be used as SSDs, as well.

The showcased 800p SSDs come in 58 GB and 118 GB capacities and can still be used with Intel’s cache memory software, with the added benefit of functioning as NVMe storage devices. No actual performance figures were released, but being an PCIe 3.0 X2 NVMe SSD should hint at above 1000 MB/s sequential writing and reading speeds. Intel stated that the new modules come with four or eight 3D XPoint memory dies, so these should end up faster than the Optane memory modules from last year. As for the advance power management options, Intel will include low-power idle states of only 1 W that recommend the new SSDs for laptop integration.

Intel also managed to increase the writing endurance ratings to 200 GB per day, while keeping the 5-year warranty. The release date is not yet known, but Intel hinted at late Q1 availability. Roadmap leaks mention a PCIe 3.0 X4 SSD model that should be released this year, as well. No info about pricing either.

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