Traditional hard drives (HDDs) and solid state drives (SSDs) are both popular methods of storage on modern computers.If you’re buying a laptop or a desktop computer, storage space will be a consideration, even if you are only interested in the capacity of your storage drive.In this article, we discuss the difference between HDDs and SSDs.

SSD vs. HDD: Speed

When comparing the two storage drives, the speed at which data is written and read is the distinguishing factor between HDDs and SSDs. The former uses magnetism to store data on a rotating platter; the faster the platter spins determines how quickly information can be stored. SSDs, however, use flash memory and an embedded processor to store data.

 SSDs provide noticeable performance upgrades, both for consumer-grade computers and web hosting servers. Many of our favorite hosts that operate all-SSD infrastructure, including InMotion, A2 Hosting, and DreamHost, say the configuration leads to page loads that are up to 20 times faster.

SSD vs. HDD: Reliability

Because there are no moving parts, SSDs tend to be more durable and can better withstand the various bumps or jolts your computer experiences. The read/write process doesn’t degrade, and SSDs will maintain data integrity for more than 200 years.

With platters that spin at 7,200 rotations (or more) per minute, the mechanisms inside HDDs are not only subject to more wear and tear, but they are more susceptible to damage if dropped or bumped.

SSD vs. HDD: Lifespan

You know the saying, “speed kills.” While that may be a little exaggerated when it comes to storage devices, it does hold a grain of truth. SSD cells can wear out over time, slowly losing performance before dying. According to many, though, SSD users are far more likely to replace their storage drive because of obsoleteness than for suffering from a shorter lifespan.

As for HDDs, the argument is much the same with durability: Moving parts leave more room for things to fail. With only a few nanometers separating the platter and read/write head, any accidental contact can lead to data loss or complete failure.

SSD vs. HDD: Power Consumption

This comparison can be illustrated pretty simply. Which takes more energy: running a marathon or tapping buttons on the remote while lying on the couch? HDDs need to spend extra electricity spinning up a stationary platter and moving the read/write head around, while the electricity SSDs use is solely devoted to storing data — no movement, friction, or extraneous noise.

For desktop computers and servers, SSDs equal lower energy bills. On laptops or tablets, users can typically squeeze out a few extra minutes or hours of battery life with SSDs.

The decision

The difference between hard drives and solid state drives is in the technology used to store and retrieve data. HDDs are cheaper and you can get more storage space. SSDs, however, are incredibly faster, lighter, more durable, and they use less energy. Using an SSD for the operating system, and HDD for file storage is becoming more common. If you have the budget and proper backups, the benefits of using SSD are obvious.

About us

Shenzhen KingSpec Electronics Technology Co., Ltd. was established in 2007. KingSpec factory has the abilities of SSD design and development, manufacture and wholesale. KingSpec has been entitled as “National High-tech Enterprise” by Chinese Governments yearly. If you need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us!