Mini SSD 1517: A New Memory Format for Portable Devices

Chinese manufacturer Biwin has unveiled the Mini SSD, a storage device measuring just 15×17×1.4 mm, also known as 1517. Despite its miniature size, the device provides read speeds of up to 3700 MB/s and write speeds of up to 3400 MB/s via PCIe 4.0 x2. Versions are available in 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB. In terms of speed, the format is comparable to SD Express, but wins out due to its smaller size.

First Devices with Support

A slot for Mini SSDs has already appeared in the GPD Win 5 portable console, and a similar solution is expected in the OneXPlayer Super X in the future. Installing the drive is similar to inserting a SIM card, which simplifies replacement and memory expansion. Biwin notes that the format is suitable not only for consoles, but also for laptops, smartphones, tablets, and cameras.

Development Prospects

The 1517 format has not yet been recognized as a JEDEC standard, so its global distribution remains in question. Prices for Mini SSDs and compatible readers have not yet been announced, but the combination of compactness, speed, and versatility could make this drive a new trend in portable gaming and mobile electronics.