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Wondering how eMMC flash memory storage compares to SSD? Then, you’re in luck, as this article explains all you need to know about eMMC flash memory storage.
Overview
eMMC stands for embedded Multi-Media Card. The eMMC acronym has two important elements – “embedded” and “Multi-Media Card”
Based on this, the first thing to note is that eMMC flash memory is based on the Multi-Media Card standard. Secondly, manufacturers “embed” (solder) the device into the main circuit board of the host device.
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For example, if a smartphone uses the eMMC storage, the eMMC will be soldered to the smartphone’s main motherboard. On the other hand, if used for a laptop, manufacturers will solder the eMMC directly to the laptop’s motherboard.
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The implication of soldering eMMC into a device’s motherboard is that users will not be able to upgrade the storage. So, when you buy a device with eMMC storage, you need to consider the upgradability limitation.
So, in terms of technology, what does eMMC Flash Memory mean?
eMMC storage is made of NAND flash memory. Specifically, 3 components make up eMMC – the MMC (Multi-Media Card) interface, the NAND flash memory, and the flash memory controller.
In the next section, I’ll explain how the 3 components work.
Before I move on though, it is important to note that device manufacturers use the NAND flash memory technology in other common storage devices. For example, manufacturers use this same flash memory technology in USB sticks, SD cards, and solid-state drives (SSD).
How Does eMMC Flash Memory Work?
In the last section, I mentioned that there are 3 components of eMMC – the MMC interface, the NAND flash memory, and the flash memory controller. I also said that the entire eMMC device is soldered into the host device’s main circuit board (or motherboard).
Specifically, two of the eMMC components – the flash memory and the flash memory controller – are built into an Integrated Circuit (IC) chip. Then, the IC chip is embedded into the motherboard.
The eMMC’s IC controller handles the task of placing data into storage. This frees up the CPU from performing this task.
The fact that the eMMC’s controller handles placing data in storage is a very important piece of information. One implication of this is improved speed.
Why?
Well, if the eMMC takes the load of reading and writing data away from the CPU, the CPU can focus on other tasks.
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In terms of actual data storage, eMMC flash memory writes data into a pool of NAND flash. One important feature of NAND is that they are non-volatile memory – meaning that they do not need external power to retain their data.
Features Of eMMC Flash Memory Technology
So far I have given a quick overview of eMMC flash storage. I have also explained how this low-cost flash memory technology works.
In the following sub-sections, you’ll learn about the main features of eMMC Flash Memory.
eMMC Storage is Embedded into a Device’s Motherboard
This is the first and most important feature of eMMC flash memory storage. Earlier in this article, I hinted that manufacturers embed eMMC into a device’s motherboard.
This is an essential feature to note because it affects its upgradability. Specifically, since the device is soldered to the motherboard, you cannot upgrade it.
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Therefore, it is important to consider your storage requirements before you decide on the storage size you should purchase with your eMMC-powered laptop or smartphone.
It Offers an Average Transfer Speed of Up to 400MB/s
eMMC comes in different specifications. The latest (as of October 2021, when I published this article) was version 5.1.
eMMC version 5.1 offers a typical transfer rate of up to 400 megabytes per second (MBps). To help you compare this transfer speed, a solid-state drive using a SATA connection offers about the same transfer speed.
So, if you consider the low cost of eMMC, getting a storage transfer speed comparable to an SSD is not bad.
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Typical eMMC Offer a Storage Size of 32GB or 64GB
If you buy a laptop that comes with an eMMC flash memory storage, you will typically get either 32GB Or 64GB. However, you may also find devices with eMMC storage of 128GB or 256GB.
I must emphasize that the larger size eMMC storage is not common.
With that said, a storage size of 32GB or 64GB is limited. This explains why manufacturers use this storage technology in low-cost devices.
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For example, if you need a laptop for browsing the internet or streaming Netflix, you don’t necessarily need a high-end laptop. In this instance, a low-end, eMMC-powered laptop will work well.
Low Power Consumption
The fact that device manufacturers embed eMMC flash on IC means that it requires low power. According to Samsung.com, their eMMC storage consumes about 0.5 watts of power.
This is almost 84% less than the least-consuming SSD.
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Handles Data Read and Write
Earlier in this article, I mentioned that the eMMC’s controller handles placing data in storage. I also stated that this frees up the host device’s CPU to perform other tasks.
In comparison, a host device’s CPU manages an HDD’s data read and write.
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As you’ll see later in the Pros and Cons section of this guide, the fact that eMMC flash memory has a built-in controller that manages data read and write is an advantage.
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Devices that Use eMMC Storage are Cheaper
This is the main advantage of eMMC storage. A typical device powered by eMMC storage is cheaper than those that use SSD or HDD storage.
eMMC Flash Memory Handles Data Read and Write
I have mentioned this more than once earlier in this article. The fact that the eMMC storage has a built-in controller that manages data read and write frees up the CPU to perform other tasks.
This is an advantage for eMMC-powered devices. Since the CPU does not handle read and write operations, it is free to perform other tasks.
This means that the device’s overall performance – smartphone, laptop, or tablet – will be faster.
Lower Power Consumption
Compared to SSDs, eMMC flash memory consume about 84% less power than the best SSDs.
Suitable for Mobile Devices
eMMC flash is very small, making them suitable for mobile devices. You’ll find eMMC flash memory in smartphones, tablets, and low-cost ultraportable laptops.
Fast Read and Write Speed
eMMC 5.1 can operate at a read speed of up to 400MB/s. Moreover, these devices can achieve up to 200MB/s write.
If you’re wondering what Read and Write speed means, a read occurs when you open a file on your device. On the other hand, a write operation happens when you save a file.
So, since eMMC flash offers better read and write speed than HDDs, for example, eMMC-powered devices will perform better than those with HDDs. This is assuming that all other factors are equal.
Efficient and Noiseless
Have you ever worked on a laptop and heard a spinning noise? This noise is typically caused by spinning HDD heads or fans.
On the contrary, have you ever heard such annoying noise on your smartphone? The answer is No!
You will not hear such noise on your smartphone because your smartphone likely uses an eMMC storage. This is a major advantage.
Limitations of eMMC Flash Storage
Limited Storage Size
I mentioned earlier that the typical size of eMMC flash storage is 32 GB or 64 GB. Although you may get up to 256 GB, this is not common.
This means that if you get a device with eMMC storage, you’re likely to accept low storage. If you compare the 32 GB to 2 TB that SSDs offer, you can begin to appreciate the extent of this limitation.
In any case, you get what you pay for! In the pros section, I mentioned that one benefit of eMMC flash memory is its low cost. One compromise that manufacturers have to make to sell eMMC-powered devices at a lower cost is the size of the storage.
Not Upgradeable or Replaceable
I cannot talk about the limitations of eMMC storage without mentioning their lack of upgradability. If you have read this article from the beginning, you would have learned why.
You cannot upgrade an eMMC storage devices because manufacturers embed the chip to the host device’s motherboard. In addition to its non-upgradability, you also cannot replace it.
So, if the eMMC storage in your device is broken, you cannot replace it – at least, not by yourself!
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Not for High-intensive Tasks
Manufacturers do not design eMMC flash memory-powered devices to handle high-performance tasks. So, if you need a laptop for gaming or graphics-intensive tasks, eMMC storage is not for you.
In this instance, I recommend that you go for SSD-powered laptops.
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- POCKET-SIZED – fits easily in pockets and small bags.
- SPACE TO OWN YOUR AI CONTENT – speed and capacity to download your high-res clips and photo edits.
- 256-BIT AES ENCRYPTION(4) – helps keep private files secure with password protection.
Conclusion
An eMMC flash memory is a type of storage that mobile devices mostly use. eMMC is designed to cater to the low-end, affordable device market.
Hence, devices that use eMMC offer low local storage space. So, it is unfair to compare eMMC flash memory storage to SSD storage drive type.
However, eMMC operates around the same 400MB/s as some SSD storage drives in terms of speed. With that said, it is important to note that eMMC is not for use in high-end devices.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesTypically, you’ll find eMMC storage in smartphones and tablets. You’ll also find eMMC storage in Chromebooks and some low-cost Windows laptops.
So, if you need a laptop for everyday computing tasks like browsing the internet or streaming Netflix, an eMMC laptop will work for you. On the other hand, if you need a laptop for high-power computing tasks, stay away from eMMC-powered laptops or Chromebooks.
I hope I was able to eMMC flash memory storage and how it compares to other types of storage. I also hope that you found the article easy to understand.
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Finally, you may find other helpful articles on our Storage & Disk Technology Explained page.
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