SSDs SSDs are basically just a type of non-volatile memory (memory that isn't lost when you lose or disconnect the power) that can be overwritten over and over again. The memory is fitted on a printed circuit board (PCB) together with interface electronics and supporting software that allows it to be 'seen' (i.e., recognised and used) as if it were a regular, physical 'hard' drive (one with a spinning magnetic disk). SSDs are much faster than hard disks, as there is little time delay waiting for a disk to rotate or read/write head to move in order to access each piece of data. Like everything else though, they vary in speed depending on the technology used and by manufacturer, model, and, of course, price!