Intel Optane Memory Boosts Hard Drive Performance and Speed Just Like SSDs

Intel has just officially released a more affordable Optane Memory solution with its aim to maintain a stronghold on the market. This is subsequent to their launch of Optane SSD with a stunning price tag of $1,520. The largest semiconductor chip maker company has announced that the launch of this more affordable product can boost hard drive performance and speed, similar to traditional SATA SSDs.

According to reports by Game Spot, Intel conveyed that Optane Memory automatically caches general computing tasks to increase speed using their Rapid Storage Technology Driver. It is also meant to improve system boot times. The drive is designed for users who need large storage hard drive and require the speed of an SSD. However, there has been a disclaimer for users. For the time being, this may not be efficiently meant for laptop use as this will need a 7th generation Kaby Lake CPU and a 200-series motherboard with a 22x80 M.2 slot in order to function well.

Further reports from BGR states that the non-volatile memory will be used as a cache drive inside the computer. It comes in two M.2 trims: a 16GB which is available at the price of US$44 and a 32GB capacity available at US$77. However, it is not made for regular storage purposes. The M.2 caching drive is reported to have the same 3D Xpoint architecture, just like with DC P4800X.

As per PC World, Intel's Optane Memory's ultimate purpose is to be used as cache drives to speed hard drives using the Smart Response Technology. While it may seem to echo SRT, it's much better in the application. It can swiftly be paired with the drive. Users can quickly set this up and its performance is a snap. The product is currently available for pre-order with an estimated shipping date on Apr. 24.