Over time, new technology usually gets better, faster, and cheaper. And that’s exactly what’s happening in infrastructure with all-flash arrays. If you’re considering replacing SAS 10K HDDs, or if you need an entry-level, cost-effective flash solution, read this buyer’s guide for key tips before you buy.

First, let’s address the biggest myth about flash: It is not true that all-flash arrays are more expensive than high-performance diskdrive-based systems. Once you factor in data reduction capabilities, flash can be less expensive per gigabyte. Plus, all-flash arrays can deliver substantial capex and opex savings in floor space, rack space, power and cooling, server farm, software licensing, and operational human power. In fact, a 2016 Gartner study found that all-flash storage pays for itself in just 5 to 6 months on average, the result of dramatic improvements in total cost of ownership (TCO).

Another benefit of moving to flash is that you are modernizing infrastructure for the future. Spinning SAS 10K disks are on the end-of-life path. Perhaps your current storage systems are behind the technology curve or approaching the end of their warranty, or perhaps the future plans of an incumbent storage vendor are uncertain. Whatever the reason, there has never been a better time to consider switching to all-flash storage.