HDD Vs SSD: The Storage Vs Performance Conundrum

It’s always a good idea to back up your PC/laptop on additional drive/ storage, as you never know when a bug attacks your system and the data gets damaged. It’s always advisable to have backup of your precious data using external drive or by adding one more on your PC. If you want to enhance the system performance not the storage, then simply add a fast and reliable SSD.

When deciding what type of storage option will work best for you, here are some key features to look for:

When Choosing External Drive

• Capacity and Portability: A portable high capacity drive will be the perfect choice. Depending on your needs, you can choose from 500 GB to 2 TB external drive. But remember, higher the capacity, bulkier the drive, as per your requirement.

• Connectivity: Nowadays, drives are supporting USB 3.0 and even some have their own wireless connectivity so that you can easily share the drive with others. Meaning more than one user can transfer data to/from the drive simultaneously. These devices also come with the built-in battery that enables you to use the drive without connecting to the PC.

• Shock Tolerance: The drive should be able to handle shocks and spills to take those falls. Rugged or shockproof devices will keep your data safe from damages.

• Performance: The major factor is transfer rate. It calculates the amount of data that a drive can transfer in a second to the computer. A higher transfer rate means better performance.

• Price: Cost always matters! Take your decision depending on your budget and cost of the drive (cost per GB offered by each drive, instead of price alone). It is an important factor, you should increase the budget if you are getting a really good drive.

When Choosing SSD

• Capacity: These days you can get SSDs ranging from 128 GB to 1 TB of capacity. You may choose depending on your needs.

• Form factor: Most of the laptops and ultrabooks accept only 2.5-inch SSDs while the desktops can take 3.5-inch. The SSD manufacturers are selling both kinds of drives. Just check which one is suitable for your system and pick the best by considering the rest of the factors.

• Connectivity: Nowadays, SATA connectors are also being used. Converters for previous age PCs are also available.

• Performance: If you are buying a new SSD to boost the PC performance then it is the prime factor to look for. You can check the transfer rate of the drive and the flash it uses.

• Price: Finally, consider all the factors against the price and choose the one that will give you the best value for your money.