Phison has unveiled its next-generation SSD controller that promises to revolutionize storage performance for both professional and consumer markets. The E28 controller represents a significant leap forward in solid-state drive technology, combining unprecedented random data performance with integrated AI processing capabilities—a first in the industry.
Groundbreaking Performance Metrics
Phison's new E28 controller delivers extraordinary performance figures that surpass current market leaders by a substantial margin. The controller achieves sequential read and write speeds of 14.8 GB/s and 14 GB/s respectively, putting it among the fastest PCIe 5.0 controllers available. Where the E28 truly shines is in random data operations, with random read rates of 2,600K IOPS and write rates of 3,000K IOPS. These numbers represent a staggering improvement over current high-end consumer SSDs, with the WD Black SN7100—considered one of the best gaming SSDs—only reaching 760K and 1,200K IOPS for random read and write operations.
Performance Comparison
| Controller/SSD | Random Read (IOPS) | Random Write (IOPS) | Sequential Read (GB/s) | Sequential Write (GB/s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phison E28 | 2,600K | 3,000K | 14.8 | 14.0 |
| Samsung 9100 Pro | 2,200K (approx.) | 2,600K (approx.) | ~14.8 | ~13.5 |
| Phison E31T | 1,500K | 2,200K | Not specified | Not specified |
| WD Black SN7100 | 760K | 1,200K | Not specified | Not specified |
Industry-First AI Integration
What sets the E28 apart from competitors is its built-in AI processing capabilities, making it the first SSD controller to feature integrated AI acceleration. According to Phison, this innovation can reduce AI training times by up to 50%, a remarkable achievement that positions the E28 as an ideal component for AI workstations and servers. The integrated circuitry is specifically designed to accelerate data flows during inference and token processing, addressing a growing need in the expanding AI computing market.
Advanced Manufacturing and Efficiency
Manufactured on TSMC's 6nm process node (compared to the 12nm process used for its predecessor, the E26), the E28 controller offers significant power efficiency improvements. Phison claims the new controller uses 15% less power than competing 6nm SSD controllers, with peak power draw measured at approximately 7.46W during sustained workloads. This reduction in power consumption translates to lower heat generation, a critical factor for maintaining optimal performance in high-speed storage solutions.
Technical Specifications and Support
The E28 supports an eight-channel layout operating at 4200 MT/s and can handle up to 32TB of TLC flash memory. It includes robust error correction technologies such as LPDC and RAID ECC, along with comprehensive security features including AES-256, TCG Opal, and Pyrite encryption capabilities. These specifications make the E28 suitable for a wide range of applications, from enterprise servers to high-performance workstations.
Phison E28 Controller Specifications
- Manufacturing Process: TSMC 6nm
- Sequential Read Speed: 14.8 GB/s
- Sequential Write Speed: 14 GB/s
- Random Read Performance: 2,600K IOPS
- Random Write Performance: 3,000K IOPS
- Flash Support: Up to 32TB of TLC flash
- Interface: PCIe 5.0
- Channel Configuration: 8-channel at 4200 MT/s
- Power Efficiency: 15% lower than competing 6nm controllers
- Average Power Draw: 7.46W in sustained workloads
- Security Features: AES-256, TCG Opal, and Pyrite encryption
- Error Correction: LPDC and RAID ECC
- Special Feature: Integrated AI processing acceleration
Market Positioning and Availability
While initially targeting the professional AI market, the technology in the E28 controller is expected to eventually make its way to consumer products. Phison reports that the initial production run has been successful, and the company is now moving to mass production. Consumer SSDs featuring the E28 controller are anticipated to arrive in the latter half of this year, though availability might extend into 2026.
Impact on Consumer Computing
Although the E28 is currently positioned for professional applications, its advancements in random data performance will likely influence the next generation of consumer SSDs. Random data performance is crucial for overall system responsiveness, affecting everything from application loading to operating system operations. As derivatives of this technology reach the consumer market, everyday PC users and gamers can expect significantly more responsive storage solutions in the near future.
Industry Recognition
The E28 controller has already received recognition for its innovative design, winning an award at Computex 2025. This acknowledgment from the industry underscores the significance of Phison's achievement in pushing the boundaries of SSD controller technology, particularly in the integration of AI processing capabilities with high-performance storage.