Yes, you can use an SSD and HDD together in the same computer. This is actually a common setup known as a hybrid drive system. The SSD provides fast performance for critical tasks and applications, while the larger HDD offers abundant storage capacity. There are a few ways to configure a hybrid drive system.
Benefits of an SSD/HDD combo
Using an SSD alongside a traditional HDD gives you the best of both worlds. Here are some of the key benefits of running an SSD and HDD together:
- Improved system performance – The SSD handles the operating system and frequently used programs for much faster boot ups, app launches and file transfers.
- Abundant storage capacity – The HDD provides terabytes of storage so you don’t have to worry about running out of space for all your photos, videos, music files and documents.
- Cost effective – An SSD with a small capacity paired with a large HDD is an affordable solution compared to buying a high capacity SSD.
- Data protection – Use the SSD for your most critical data and applications, while storing less sensitive data on the HDD.
Ways to configure an SSD/HDD combo
There are several options for setting up a hybrid SSD/HDD configuration. The most common methods are:
Operating System Partition
This involves installing your operating system and key applications on the SSD, while storing your files and documents on the HDD. Here are the steps for this setup:
- First, install the operating system (Windows, Mac OS, Linux) on the SSD.
- Use the SSD for high performance programs like your web browser, office suite and gaming apps.
- Set your user folders like Documents, Music, Pictures to save to the HDD by default.
- Direct any downloads, media files and other data to save to the HDD.
The benefit of this method is you get SSD speeds where it matters most – for booting and launching apps. Your files remain safely stored on the HDD.
SSD Cache
Some SSDs come with advanced caching capabilities. The SSD caching software automatically copies your most frequently used files from the HDD to the SSD. This cache improves performance while minimizing SSD capacity needs.
Enable SSD caching in your operating system or motherboard settings to activate this feature. The caching algorithms will learn your usage patterns, keeping your important files on the SSD for the best performance.
Manual Data Transfer
For more granular control, you can choose to manually move select files from the HDD to the SSD. Examples include:
- Games – Install your game platform (Steam, Origin, Epic Games) and current game titles on the SSD.
- Creative apps – Move your video, photo and music editing applications to the SSD.
- Productivity software – Install your office suite, CAD/CAM programs and other everyday apps on the SSD.
By manually optimizing file placement between the drives, you can maximize both speed and capacity tailored to your specific needs.
SSD as Primary and HDD as Secondary
Another approach is using the SSD as your primary drive for OS, apps and active projects, while the HDD serves as a secondary data drive. Here are some guidelines for this setup:
- Set the SSD as the boot drive and install everything to it by default.
- Use the HDD for your document libraries, media storage, archives and other inactive data.
- Store new files like pictures, music and downloads to the HDD by default.
- Manually transfer aging or inactive files from the SSD to the HDD to free up space.
This lets you enjoy the speedy SSD for active use while leveraging the HDD’s cheap storage for archived data.
Dual Boot with Separate Drives
You can also install different operating systems between the SSD and HDD in a dual boot configuration. For example:
- Install Windows on the SSD for day-to-day productivity use.
- Install Linux on the HDD for web development, programming or testing uses.
During startup, your system will allow you to choose which drive to boot from. This keeps your OS installations separate while conveniently accessible on the same PC.
Optimizing SSD/HDD Performance
To maximize the speed and responsiveness of your SSD/HDD setup, follow these tips:
Enable AHCI Mode
AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) enables advanced SSD features like native command queuing. This helps parallelize I/O requests and optimize data transfer. Enable AHCI mode in your BIOS settings.
Update your SSD Firmware
SSD manufacturers periodically release updated firmware that improves performance and reliability. Check your drive manufacturer’s website for the latest firmware updates.
Enable Write Caching
Enabling write caching allows the SSD to buffer write commands, improving write speeds. Just make sure to use a UPS to avoid data loss from sudden power failure.
Defragment your HDD
Regular defragmentation helps optimize data layout on traditional HDDs, sustaining fast read/write speeds. Windows has built-in defrag utilities to automate this.
Use Separate SATA Channels
Plugging your SSD and HDD into different SATA channels allows the drives to operate independently without queueing conflicts. This ensures peak throughput.
Align Partitions Properly
Improper partition alignment can degrade SSD write performance substantially. Always align partitions to 1MiB boundaries and use 4k cluster sizes for best results.
Ideal Filesystem Formats
To maximize compatibility and performance, use these filesystem formats for SSD and HDD drives:
| Drive Type | Recommended Filesystem |
| SSD | NTFS or exFAT |
| HDD | NTFS |
NTFS is ideal for both drive types, providing efficient performance along with robust file and permission management. exFAT is great for external SSDs, offering broad OS support.
Caveats of Using SSD and HDD Together
While using an SSD and HDD together provides excellent versatility, there are some minor drawbacks to note:
- Potentially complicated setup – Getting the right OS, app and data placement may require more effort.
- No StoreMi support – AMD’s automated tiered storage technology won’t work with mixed SSD and HDD configs.
- Boot times depend on SSD – Boot and app launch speeds will depend on files located on the SSD, not the faster overall SSD specifications.
- File management required – You may need to regularly move inactive files from the SSD to the HDD.
- Upfront cost higher than SSD or HDD alone – Having to purchase both an SSD and HDD raises the initial acquisition cost.
However, most users find the substantial benefits are worth the extra bit of setup work required.
Choosing Compatible SSDs and HDDs
When selecting an SSD and HDD for use in a hybrid configuration, be sure to choose compatible models. Here are some key points:
- Match interface – Select SSD and HDD with same SATA or NVMe interfaces.
- Check controller & firmware – Avoid known incompatible SSD/HDD controllers and firmware.
- Verify SSD caching support – Confirm SSD has caching capability if using that feature.
- Choose reputable brands – Stick with major brands like Samsung, Crucial, WD for best results.
- Consider capacities – A 240-500GB SSD with a 1-4TB HDD works well for most hybrid setups.
Doing research before you buy helps ensure your SSD and HDD will work optimally together.
SSD and HDD Together Provides the Best of Both Worlds
While SSDs provide lightning fast speed and HDDs offer vast affordable storage, using both drive types together in one system gives you the perfect hybrid experience. With the OS and key apps on the SSD and ample data capacity from the HDD, you can transform your computer into a high-performance productivity and gaming machine.
Carefully configuring where programs and files reside based on frequency of use allows you to maximize both the capabilities of SSD speed and HDD capacity. While it requires a bit more effort than a single drive, the versatility, cost-effectiveness and performance benefits make using an SSD and HDD together well worthwhile.