Pure Storage has expanded its FlashArray//C, announcing its new FlashArray//C20 that provides high-density, capacity-optimized all-flash storage for SMB, ROBO, and workloads that require high availability but not ultra-low latency.

FlashArray//C20

The FlashArray//C20 introduces several features and capabilities that meet the specific needs of edge and entry-level deployments:

1. High-Density, Capacity-Optimized Flash Storage
   • DirectFlash Modules (DFMs): FlashArray//C20 employs Pure’s proprietary DFMs, providing higher density and consistent low latency for workloads, prioritizing capacity over high-performance flash storage.
   • QLC NAND Flash: The FlashArray//C20 uses QLC NAND, which optimizes for high capacity and is well-suited to workloads that don’t require ultra-low latency, making it a practical choice for entry-level flash storage.
2. Scalability and Upgradability
   • Entry Point and Expansion: With a minimum capacity of 148TB, the FlashArray//C20 is designed for smaller deployments while retaining the ability to scale up to petabyte levels as data demands grow.
   • Non-Disruptive Upgrades: The system can seamlessly upgrade to higher-capacity models within the FlashArray//C family or next-generation controllers, allowing organizations to expand storage capabilities as needs shift without downtime or complex migrations.
3. Performance and Reliability
   • Enterprise-Grade Availability: Despite being an entry-level model, FlashArray//C20 offers high availability and reliability, supporting business-critical workloads that require robust, consistent performance and uptime.
   • Workload Optimization: The FlashArray//C20 is optimized for applications like large-scale VMs, databases, dev/test environments, and disaster recovery, providing reliable, low-latency performance without requiring ultra-low microsecond-level latency.
4. Unified Management and Integration with Pure Storage Ecosystem
   • Pure1 and Pure Fusion Integration: FlashArray//C20 is part of Pure’s ecosystem, managed through the Pure1 and Pure Fusion control planes. It allows centralized fleet management, intelligent workload distribution, and seamless workload mobility across Pure’s storage arrays.
   • Single OS and Global Storage Pool: FlashArray//C20 operates on Pure’s unified OS, providing a cohesive management experience, simple integration across storage deployments, and a global storage pool for optimal resource allocation.
5. Built-In Security and Resilience
   • Cybersecurity Measures: The FlashArray//C20 includes integrated security features that provide protection against cyber threats, enhancing data security for business-critical applications.
   • Resilience for Disaster Recovery: The array supports DR capabilities, allowing it to serve as a reliable component in DR plans for SMBs and edge environments.

Analysis

FlashArray//C20 extends Pure Storage’s reach into previously underserved market segments and could significantly influence the entry-level flash storage space. The new FlashArray//C20 offers enterprise-grade capabilities, scalability, and simplicity at a lower price and capacity, making it highly competitive for SMBs and ROBOs.

Pure Storage is lowering the entry barriers to high-quality all-flash storage, offering smaller organizations access to features typically reserved for enterprise-level arrays. Pure’s consistent FlashArray architecture allows customers to benefit from unified management, workload mobility, and cybersecurity, regardless of deployment size or storage capacity.

The new product also expands Pure’s TAM, enabling Pure to better service SMB, ROBO, and edge deployments—segments that may have previously found Pure’s offerings beyond their capacity or budgetary requirements. By delivering a cost-effective, capacity-optimized all-flash storage solution, the FlashArray//C20 allows Pure Storage to better tap into these markets.

Overall, the new FlashArray//C20 strengthens Pure Storage’s competitive stance in the entry-level storage market by combining enterprise-grade features with cost-effective capacity. The FlashArray//C20 allows Pure Storage to serve a more diverse customer base while reinforcing key strategic themes: scalable simplicity, cybersecurity, and flexibility across all storage deployments.