Samsung Unveils RISC-V Powered SSD Controller for Next-Generation Storage
Samsung has taken a significant step forward in SSD technology by introducing a new controller based on the open-source RISC-V instruction set architecture (ISA), moving away from the traditional Arm-based designs in some of its solid-state drives. This innovation debuts with the BM9K1 PCIe 5.0 QLC NAND SSD, which was officially announced at the China Flash Market Summit 2026.
Introducing the BM9K1 PCIe 5.0 QLC NAND SSD
The BM9K1 SSD marks Samsung’s first proprietary RISC-V intellectual property (IP) for storage controllers, setting the stage for a new generation of SSDs. The company showcased the BM9K1’s sequential read performance, achieving an impressive maximum speed of 11.4 GB/s—an outstanding result for QLC NAND flash technology. While sequential write speeds have not been disclosed, industry expectations suggest they will approach 10 GB/s, depending on Samsung’s final design choices.
Traditionally, high-performance SSDs have relied on TLC NAND, such as the Samsung 9100 Pro SSD, which utilizes 3D TLC V-NAND V8 with 236 layers and a proprietary 5 nm Presto controller based on Arm cores. With the BM9K1, Samsung signals a potential shift toward RISC-V based controllers, aiming to deliver competitive performance even with QLC NAND.
Enhanced Efficiency and AI-Ready Design
Samsung’s new SSD controller is engineered with a focus on size, power efficiency, and artificial intelligence applications. The BM9K1 PCIe 5.0 SSD replaces the previous BM9C1 PCIe 4.0 controller, offering a substantial leap in performance. Both models use QLC NAND, but the BM9K1 benefits from the advanced RISC-V controller and the faster PCIe 5.0 interface, effectively doubling average sequential read speeds compared to its predecessor.
One of the standout features of the RISC-V design is its improved power efficiency. Samsung reports a 23% increase in power efficiency, attributed to the flexibility of the RISC-V architecture. This allows for greater customization and optimization of the controller firmware, enabling it to better align I/O patterns with QLC NAND characteristics. The result is nearly a quarter reduction in power consumption, which is particularly beneficial for small form factor PCs and client laptops where energy efficiency is crucial.
Future Outlook and Availability
While the use of QLC NAND presents some trade-offs in terms of endurance and performance compared to TLC NAND, Samsung’s adoption of RISC-V controllers could pave the way for future TLC NAND SSDs with similar architectures. For now, TLC-based models remain on Arm-powered Presto controllers.
The BM9K1 SSD is slated for a 2027 launch, with planned capacities of 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB. Details regarding pricing, write speeds, and endurance are yet to be announced, but further information is expected as the product approaches release.
Samsung’s move to RISC-V for SSD controllers highlights the company’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in storage technology, positioning it at the forefront of the evolving SSD market.
