Micron Unveils First PCIe 6.0 SSDs, Plans for 245 TB Model

Wed 30th Jul, 2025

Micron Technology has made headlines by introducing the first solid-state drive (SSD) equipped with PCI Express 6.0 technology. The newly launched Micron 9650 SSD is tailored for server applications, providing exceptionally high read performance. With a sequential read speed of up to 28 GB/s, the SSD also boasts impressive random access capabilities, achieving up to 5.5 million input/output operations per second (IOPS).

This breakthrough is made possible through the integration of Micron's proprietary controller and NAND flash memory, which utilizes Triple Level Cell (TLC) technology to store three bits per cell. While this setup achieves remarkable read speeds, it is worth noting that it falls short of the performance specifications set by competitors, such as Silicon Motion's SM8466 controller, which claims to reach up to seven million IOPS with faster memory.

The Micron 9650 series will be available in both Pro and Max variants, with capacities reaching up to 30.72 TB and 25.6 TB, respectively. However, the write performance of these SSDs is significantly lower than their read capabilities, with a sequential write speed capped at 14 GB/s. Depending on the specific model, write IOPS range from 500,000 to 570,000 for the Pro versions, while the Max variant can reach up to 900,000 IOPS.

All versions of the 9650 series will consume up to 25 watts of power, which is relatively standard for server-grade SSDs, despite being higher than typical consumer models. Micron claims that these drives offer up to 67% improved energy efficiency for random read operations compared to PCIe 5.0 SSDs.

While Micron has yet to announce a release date for the 9650 SSDs, they are expected to be used for validation with next-generation servers, with the rollout of PCIe 6.0-capable server processors anticipated in 2026.

Upcoming 245 TB SSD Release

In addition to the Micron 9650, the company has also revealed the 6600 Ion SSD series, which is designed for maximum storage capacity. Initial models will be available this year, offering up to 122 TB in E3.S and U.2 form factors. Notably, versions with an astounding 245 TB capacity are set to launch in the first half of 2026, positioning Micron to compete directly with Kioxia, which recently announced a similar 245 TB SSD.

Performance-wise, the 6600 Ion series will utilize PCIe 5.0 technology, resulting in maximum read speeds of 14 GB/s and write speeds of up to 3 GB/s. The IOPS for the largest models are expected to be around two million for read operations and just 40,000 for writes. This lower write performance is attributed to the use of Micron's proprietary Quadruple Level Cell (QLC) memory, which can store four bits per cell.

Additionally, Micron will introduce the 7600 SSD series, which will support capacities of up to 15.36 TB, offering a more affordable alternative with lower PCIe 5.0 speeds.


More Quick Read Articles »