Prediction: Faster USB flash drives next year

Despite looking pretty-much the same, the fact is that USB 2.0 flash drives can be quite different as far as performance and how long they can last. According to Robert L. Scheier of Computerworld, one of the key differentiator is whether the flash drive relies on SLC (single-level cell) or MLC (multilevel cell) memory; with SLC clocking in at twice the read-and-write speed of MLC memory. In addition, SLC memory has 10 times the longevity of MLC memory, though it is something that normal users are not likely to notice.

For speed freaks however, the prediction by Pat Wilkison, from a memory and storage products manufacturer, is that the first half of 2009 will see drives with dual- or quad-channel controllers appearing, bringing the humble USB 2.0 interface closer to saturation point.

For more about USB flash drives:
- check out this Computerworld article