SSD vs HDD: Complete Comparison

Understanding storage technologies for better data management and recovery

Key Differences at a Glance

How solid-state drives (SSDs) and hard disk drives (HDDs) compare in critical aspects:

Feature SSD HDD
Technology Flash memory (NAND) Magnetic platters
Speed 300-3500 MB/s 80-160 MB/s
Access Time 0.1 ms 5-10 ms
Capacity Up to 8TB (consumer) Up to 20TB (consumer)
Durability No moving parts Mechanical components
Power Usage 2-5 watts 6-15 watts
Noise Silent Audible spinning
Price per GB £0.08-£0.20 £0.02-£0.05

SSD Advantages

Why choose solid-state drives:

  • Blazing fast speeds: 5-100x faster than HDDs
  • Shock resistant: Ideal for laptops and mobile devices
  • Energy efficient: Longer battery life for portables
  • Compact form factors: M.2 and other slim designs
  • Silent operation: No moving parts means no noise

HDD Advantages

When hard disk drives still make sense:

  • Cost-effective storage: Much cheaper per terabyte
  • Higher capacities: Available in larger sizes
  • Longer write endurance: No cell wear-out
  • Easier data recovery: More predictable failure modes
  • Proven technology: Decades of reliability data

Data Recovery Comparison

How storage type affects recovery success rates:

95%
HDD Logical Issues

Deleted files, formatting

85%
HDD Physical Damage

Head crashes, motor failure

80%
SSD Controller Failure

Non-responsive drives

65%
SSD NAND Failure

Chip-level issues

Storage Selection Tips

  • OS/Applications: SSD for speed
  • Archival Storage: HDD for cost/capacity
  • Critical Data: SSD+HDD with backups
  • Mobile Devices: SSD for durability

Failure Warning Signs

SSD Failure Symptoms

  • Frequent crashes/freezes
  • Files disappearing
  • Read-only mode activation
  • Extremely slow performance
  • Bad block errors

HDD Failure Symptoms

  • Clicking/grinding noises
  • Slow file access
  • Frequent corruption
  • S.M.A.R.T. errors
  • Overheating

Immediate Actions When Failure Suspected

  • Stop using the device immediately
  • Don't attempt DIY fixes
  • Note all symptoms
  • Contact professionals

Need Storage Advice or Recovery?

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