When it comes to choosing the right storage solution, the decision often comes down to whether to go with a Solid-State Drive (SSD) or a Hard Disk Drive (HDD). HDDs were the standard for years and typically the process was quite simple. Folks would go to the store, pick up a Hard Drive with the capacity they need, and be on their way. But things have changed, and SSDs are now the go-to if you’re looking for premium portable storage, given the much faster speeds and additional security they offer over HDDs. However, HDDs haven’t disappeared yet, and the lower price tags they usually come with can still be appealing. So, we’ve compiled a list of reasons why you might be better off with an SSD.
1. SSDs are much faster
Solid State Drives are much faster than HDDs. Without getting too complicated, SSDs use flash memory, which allows for almost instant access. They also don’t use any moving parts. On the other hand, an HDD uses spinning disks to read and write data. The time it takes for this mechanical system to move into position and then to locate data means that there is a significant delay when compared with an SSD.
So, opting for a much faster SSD means you get quicker boot times, faster file transfers, and a significant reduction in loading times for games and applications. Not all SSDs are made equal though. If you’re tossing up between two different SSD options, check the read/write performance. The higher these numbers, the faster your SSD should perform.
2. Improved durability and reliability
SSDs are far more reliable as a portable storage option. Because they don’t use a mechanical system, there’s less room for damage, meaning shocks and vibrations are a lot less likely to break internal parts.
Given that a portable storage solution will move around, it will likely take a fall or bump every now and then. With an HDD, a fall or bump can very quickly lead to the loss of data, which is the last thing you want to happen. SSDs significantly reduce this risk.
It should be noted though that when data has been lost, it is a lot easier to recover it from an HDD, due to its mechanical nature. Things are not as easy with an SSD, in the rare instance of failure. Overall though, an SSD is much, much safer, and the loss of data due to a drop or shock is very unlikely.
3. Lower Power Consumption
Not having mechanical parts means that an SSD can operate with much less power than what would typically be required by an HDD. If you’re using your storage with a portable device such as a laptop, for example, the lower power consumption of an SSD will certainly help. On the other hand, an HDD requires more power to move the mechanical components around, and this will of course lower the total battery life on your mobile device.
If you’re using your SSD with a device that is plugged in, the power consumption will still be much lower, although since you aren’t running on limited battery life, this may not be as noticeable, or as much of a worry for you.
4. Quieter Operation
Yet another benefit of the flash memory, and the lack of mechanical components, is the quieter operation of an SSD. HDDs will typically be a fair bit louder with spinning disks and other moving parts, although with higher-end units, this may be reduced. Either way, if you’re doing intensive tasks, like gaming, the added peace of quieter operation will definitely be a bonus.
5. Better for Gaming and Media
If you’re a gamer, or work with media, like graphic design or video editing, an SSD will make your life much easier. Faster loading, smoother gameplay, and speedy rendering when doing video or photo editing, are all examples of the discernable benefits you’ll get from using an SSD.
Furthermore, for those working with important media files, the more durable SSD would be a great choice to ensure you don’t lose valuable assets. If you are capturing footage or photos, you often won’t get another chance to capture the same shots again, so it's important to ensure your storage system is safe and durable.
6. Smaller and Lighter
Due to its construction and internal components, an SSD can be made much lighter, and smaller than an HDD, which needs more room simply due to its nature. Again, given these drives need to be portable, the reduced weight and size means an SSD is definitely going to be a more suitable choice.
Bear in mind this will vary from unit to unit and will also depend on the storage capacity offered. But overall, an SSD will be lighter than an HDD with the same capacity.
7. Decreased Heat Generation
With less moving around inside, an SSD will run cooler than an HDD. This is a bonus for anyone, but especially important for those doing intensive tasks. Heat can affect devices and even decrease performance and stability, so if your laptop or computer is already heating up from a serious gaming session or an intense video editing session, for example, the last thing you want is even more heat being produced by your HDD, adding to the problem at hand.
So, now you know the benefits of an SSD! If you’re looking for the optimal storage solution, an SSD is definitely the way to go. Of course, there will still be some who prefer an HDD for the lower cost, and because they aren’t as fussed about the benefits outlined. Whichever option you choose, we’ve got something for you! We’ve added an awesome SSD option and HDD option below. Still not sure? Pop into your local PB Tech store today and one of our friendly staff will be able to point you in the right direction!
