SanDisk has updated the top end of its SSD range with the new Extreme Pro line. The biggest change is in warranty coverage: SanDisk is backing these drives for 10 years, in what looks to be a first for a consumer SSD.

In addition to the generous warranty period, SanDisk claims improvements over the performance of the Extreme II line. Sequential write performance has increased by about 2-3% (to 515-520MB/s), random reads by about 5% (to 100K IOPS), and random writes by 15-20% (to 90K IOPS), depending on the capacity in question. Sequential read performance remains unchanged.

The Extreme Pro line continues to utilize SanDisk’s nCache technology, which the company describes as a “two-tiered caching architecture to optimize speed and endurance for heavy workloads, efficient multi-tasking, and incredibly fast responsiveness.” We tested an nCache-equipped Extreme II 240GB last year, and we discovered that, while the feature might improve performance under certain workloads, it doesn’t have a major effect on overall performance.

SanDisk’s announcement doesn’t mention the type of controller or NAND flash used. Going by what’s inside the Extreme II, though, the Extreme Pro likely uses MLC flash and a Marvell controller. We’ve asked SanDisk for clarification.

Newegg is already offering the Extreme Pro for pre-order in 240GB, 480GB, and 960GB capacities for $189.99, $369.99, and $599.99, respectively. The drive will be available this month, with Newegg quoting a June 12 release date.