Intel Corp. on Monday introduced its latest family of affordable solid-state drives (SSDs) that combine high performance with relatively low prices. Intel 330-series SSDs are mostly designed for consumers, who want to speed up operation of frequently used programs, such as Microsoft Windows, Office and other.

Intel 330-series 2.5"solid-state drives are available in 60GB, 120GB and 180GB capacities and are based on multi-level cell (MLC) NAND flash memory made using 25nm process technology at IM Flash. All the new drives provide up to 500MB/s sequential read speeds and up to 450MB/s sequential write speeds for faster data transfer. Random read performance can go up to 22 500 input-output operations per second (IOPS) and 33 000 write IOPS to boost overall application and system responsiveness. The novelties utilize Serial ATA-600 interface.

Available beginning today at worldwide retailers and online e-tailers, the Intel SSD 330-series is offered at the suggested channel price of $89 for a 60GB drive, $149 for a 120GB drive and $234 for a 180GB drive. It is also backed by a 3-year limited warranty.

"An SSD is still the single best upgrade you can make to your existing PC, and the Intel SSD 330 Series gives users the latest Intel SSD technology at a price to meet their budget. Backed by Intel's rigorous testing process, the Intel SSD 330 Series offers our users the speed they need at a great price, backed by world-class manufacturing, reliability and tech support," said James Slattery, product line manager for client SSDs at Intel non-volatile memory solutions group.

Tags: Intel, SSD, MLC, NAND, Flash, 25nm