HDD Vs SSD | Which is better in 2021?

HDD Vs SSD (LSD anyone?), what should you opt for? Aren’t the two the same? Well, they both are all about storage but are quite different from each other in various aspects. However, one thing remains constant: both are crucial aspects of storage in PC and laptops and have their respective places to consider. Therefore, the choice for either remains according to the mode of application, and one needs to understand in detail the difference between HDD and SSD. 

HDD or the Hard Disc Drive

The HDD stands for the physical-mechanical drive used for storage when ‘putting together a Laptop or Computer. However, this is one of the earlier known storage devices widely known by most. Interestingly, the HDD was first introduced by IBM in the late ’50s and has remained relevant ever since. As a result, the HDD has been a default part of the PC used worldwide.

Working of the Hard Disc Drive-HDD

The HDD is a spinning magnetic disk with patterns that comprises data and has a motor to allow its spinning action. The hardware received the command from the I/O controller and firmware and then later communicates in a relevant manner with the rest of the device. The spinning speed is from 4200 rpm to 7200 rpm for an average-sized computer. These speeds correspond to the read/write data; therefore, the faster the speed, the better the rate at which the HDD reads data. These are further of two different types:

    • Internal HDD: As the name suggests, this type is used inside of a device to install OS and tore data. 
    • External HDD: This is the portable type that can be used to store data as and when required.

Advantages of HDD

    • The HDD is less expensive.
    • These have a larger storage capacity in comparison.
    • The HDD comprises of non-volatile memory.
    • The HDD has a larger life span.

Disadvantages of HDD

    • Can fail if handled wrongly.
    • The HDD is heavier and bulkier.
    • The HDD uses more energy as compared to the SSD.

What is a SSD or Solid-State Drive?

SSD or Solid-State Drive

This is the latest storage device used in most PC, Laptops, and Gaming consoles. This is a physical, electronic drive and is an advanced form of technology and is quite fast as compared to the other storage devices. In addition, the SSD utilizes Flash Memory to offer good performance and better durability.

Working of the SSD (Solid-State Drive)

The SSD works much similar to the USB flash drive, for example, Pen Drive. The SSD functions via the SSD controller that locates where the data is stored. The SSD is different from the HDD mainly because the data in a certain block needs to be refreshed whenever an update occurs. In a nutshell, the new data is re-written with the required changes in the block.

Advantages of SSD

    • The access time of the SSD is quite fast, with 35 to 100 microseconds.
    • Offers better performance in comparison.
    • The SSD is a more reliable option.
    • SSD utilizes less power in comparison.
    • Does not generate much noise.
    • These are more compact in comparison.
    • Does not generate heat.
    • Is not affected by magnetism.

Disadvantages of SSD

    • The SSD is quite expensive in comparison.
    • Does not have a large capacity in comparison.

HDD Vs SSD: What Is The Difference Between HDD and SSD?

HDD VS SSD

Let us compare some of the precise differences between the SSD and HDD:

HDD(HARD DISC DRIVE)

SSD(SOLID STATE DRIVE)

Access Time: 5.5 – 8.0  ms

Access Time: 0.1 ms

Random I/O Performance: 400 io/s

Random I/O Performance: 6000 io/s

Reliability: 2-5%

Reliability: 0.5%

Energy Savings: 6 and 16 Watts

Energy Savings: 2 and 5 watts

CPU power: 7%

CPU Power: 1 %

Input/Output Request Time: 400-500 ms

Input/output Request Time: 20 ms

Back Up Rates: 20-24 hours

Back Up Rates: 6 hours

The Hybrid Type: SSHD {Solid State Hybrid Drive)

While the HDD and SDD are the two different types of storage, there is also a third type. This is known as the Solid State Hybrid Drive or the SSHD. This is mechanically an HDD that includes the SSD Cache.

How SSHD Works?

Working on the SSHD is quite interesting. It ‘learns’ the files and applications that are used the most by the users and then ‘moves’ them accordingly to the miniature SSD. This way, you have a good performance along with the high capacity of the HDD. These are expensive but cheaper than the regular SSD, but with the same capacity.

Is SSHD Worth It?

One must bear in mind that the Hybrid types are neither fast enough and nor can they be considered to be on a budget. However, most users prefer the SSHD only because they cannot afford the regular SSD.

HDD Vs SSD: FAQs

256 GB SSD is better as the load time is better on an SSD. 

Yes, SSD is much faster as compared to HDD. The Access time for SSD is 0.1 ms, and that of the HDD is 5.5-8.0 ms.

SSD is safer as it does not comprise any movable parts, so more durable.

The SSD can last for about ten years.

The SSD is more reliable, durable, and compact; hence a better option for long-term storage.

HDD Vs SSD: The Conclusion

HDD vs SSD pros and cons undoubtedly offer you the proper insight about ‘how things work within.’ However, one must bear in mind the applications before taking the final decision:

On A Budget: When you are not ready to splurge too much and yet need proper storage, HDD is a perfect choice. After all, it is not all that bad; in fact, HDD is preferred by many users who want high capacity storage but light on the pockets. 

Good Performance: SSD is best preferred when performance is the primary concern. The SSD is durable and more reliable in comparison. So, opt for the SSD if you require a sleek, compact, and portable storage device which is excellent for performance. 

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