In embodiments, an apparatus includes a burst current monitor, to detect a burst of input current drawn by a SSD from a host above a pre-defined burst threshold, and control logic coupled to the burst current monitor. The control logic, in response to the detection by the burst current monitor of the input current above the burst threshold, causes a capacitor of the SSD to supply an assistance current to the SSD, to reduce the input current drawn by the SSD. In embodiments, the capacitor is a hold-up capacitor disposed in a PLI circuit of the SSD, and the apparatus is integrated within a hold-up control logic sub-circuit of the PLI circuit.