SSD capacity continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Toshiba just announced a new 256GB SSD. Using an MLC (multilevel cell) controller, the 2.5-inch drive promises a maximum read speed of 120MB a second and maximum write speed of 70MB a second, via a high speed SATA 3.0Gb/s interface.
MLC SSDs are cheaper to manufacture than the older SLC (single-level cell) SSDs but are not as fast (up to three times slower) or as reliable. Toshiba’s new MLC controller is expected to address some of these concerns though.
Toshiba expects to start mass production in the last quarter of the year. Pricing was not revealed.
Samsung is also expected to begin manufacture of 256GB SSDs in the upcoming months.