When it comes to external storage solutions, SSDs and HDDs each have their pros and cons. SSDs (solid state drives) tend to be more expensive with less storage capacity, but they are much faster, more durable, and consume less power than HDDs (hard disk drives).
HDDs are inexpensive per gigabyte, but slow in data access speed and more prone to failure with rough handling. For those needing a balance between speed, capacity, and cost, an external SSD can be the better choice compared to an external HDD. However, the use case is an important determining factor.
This article examines the key differences between external SSDs and HDDs to help you decide which is better suited for your needs.
Speed
External SSDs are significantly faster than external HDDs in terms of read/write speeds. SSDs utilize flash memory and have no moving parts, allowing them to read and write data very quickly. The interface speed of SSDs is also faster, with most using USB 3.2 Gen 2 which provides transfer speeds up to 10Gbps.
In comparison, traditional HDDs rely on spinning platters and moving heads to read and write data. This mechanical process causes them to be much slower than SSDs. The maximum read/write speed of HDDs tops out at around 100-200MB/s, while SSDs can reach over 1000MB/s. Additionally, external HDDs typically use older USB interfaces like USB 3.0/3.1 Gen 1 which are capped at 5Gbps.
This substantial difference in speed makes SSDs better suited for tasks that require rapidly transferring lots of data like video editing, gaming, or working with large media files. For basic file storage and backup, HDDs may be adequate. But for external drives that will see frequent and demanding use, SSDs provide a major speed advantage.
According to benchmarks from Reddit, when copying a large number of small files, external SSDs reached speeds over 300MB/s while HDDs plateaued around 100MB/s.
Durability
SSDs tend to be more durable and withstand shock better than HDDs. SSDs have no moving parts, so they are less prone to failures due to shock or drops. According to one source, “SSDs can withstand shock up to 1500G of force and functioning in environments up to 200°C”[1].
However, HDDs are designed to handle some shocks as well, using ramp loading technology to park the read/write heads when powered off. Overall though, SSDs are rated for a longer lifespan. A typical SSD lifespan is around 10 years, while HDDs average only 3-5 years before potential failure [2]. The lack of moving parts gives SSDs an advantage for durability and shock resistance.
Sources:
[1] https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/tech-takes/ssd-vs-hdd
[2] https://premioinc.com/blogs/blog/ssd-vs-hdd-which-is-best-for-your-storage-solution-full-overview
Size and Weight
SSDs are generally much smaller and lighter than HDDs. A typical 2.5″ SATA SSD is about the size of a postcard and around 2-8mm thick, while a 3.5″ desktop HDD can be about twice as thick at around 15-26mm. SSDs don’t contain any moving parts like the spinning platter(s) found in traditional HDDs, so there’s no need for extra internal space or thickness.
When it comes to weight, SSDs typically weigh around 1.5-2 ounces for a 2.5″ drive. In comparison, a 3.5″ HDD can weigh between 150-700 grams. The lightness of SSDs makes them extremely portable and easy to transport. External SSDs weigh less than 100 grams in most cases, while external HDDs are much heavier at around 150-300 grams depending on the capacity and materials.
Overall, the small size and featherlight weight of SSDs is advantageous when you need storage that can easily fit into tight spaces and be carried around without any hassle. This makes SSDs excellent for external storage to transport large amounts of data or for upgrading the internal storage in compact devices like ultrabooks. Their portability and durability also makes external SSDs very popular for on-the-go use by creative professionals and others who need fast, rugged storage they can take anywhere.
Noise
One of the most noticeable differences between external SSDs and external HDDs is the amount of noise they produce. HDDs contain moving mechanical parts like disk platters and read/write heads that generate audible noise during operation. In contrast, SSDs are completely silent as they contain no moving parts (cite reference here: https://darwinsdata.com/is-a-ssd-silent/).
The noise levels of HDDs, while not extremely loud, can be distracting in quiet environments or annoying if used frequently. SSDs operate with no sound at all, making them better suited for noise-sensitive environments like libraries, offices, or bedrooms. This silent operation gives SSDs a clear advantage for tasks that involve frequent disk access.
Overall, the complete lack of moving parts allows external SSDs to run without any audible noise. This gives them a distinct edge over external HDDs, which produce noticeable mechanical noises during operation due to their physical hard disk design.
Security
When it comes to encryption, both SSDs and HDDs can be encrypted to protect data. However, SSDs tend to have an advantage when it comes to built-in encryption features. Many SSDs like Samsung’s Evo models come with AES 256-bit hardware encryption, while most HDDs do not have built-in encryption (Seagate BarraCuda, 2014; Samsung 870 EVO, 2021).
In terms of resilience against physical damage, SSDs are generally more durable. Because they have no moving parts, SSDs can better withstand impacts like drops or bumps. HDDs contain spinning magnetic disks and read/write heads that can break and make data recovery difficult if physically damaged (TechGeekBuzz, 2022). Overall, the solid-state design makes SSDs more resilient and secure if damaged.
However, both HDDs and SSDs can fail in certain extreme conditions like water damage or fire. Proper backups are still essential for securing data. While SSDs have some advantages for encryption and physical security, both HDDs and SSDs should be protected and backed up.
Compatibility
Both SSDs and HDDs are compatible with most computers, though there are some differences in compatibility to be aware of. SSDs connect via SATA or USB ports, so they can be used with desktop PCs, laptops, and even gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. Most modern devices support hot-swapping SSDs. However, some older computers may only support SATA II speeds, which will throttle the SSD’s performance. HDDs are similarly compatible across platforms when connected via USB, though they may require external power to function properly. See this article for a full comparison of SSD and HDD compatibility.
When used as internal drives, compatibility depends on the connection types supported by the computer. Most modern laptops support M.2 SSDs which offer the fastest speeds. 2.5″ SATA SSDs are compatible with many desktops and laptops. 3.5″ HDDs are commonly used as internal drives in desktop PCs. In general, SSDs tend to have broader compatibility due to their small physical size.
Cost
When it comes to cost per gigabyte (GB), HDDs are generally much cheaper than SSDs. An external HDD with 1TB of storage may cost around $50, whereas a 1TB external SSD may cost around $100 or more. According to Avast, a 1TB HDD is around $60 while a 1TB SSD is around $100. The price difference becomes even more significant as capacity increases.
SSDs used to be prohibitively expensive compared to HDDs, but prices have dropped dramatically in recent years, making SSDs more affordable. However, HDDs still offer more storage capacity per dollar spent. If you need lots of external storage on a budget, an HDD is likely the better choice. But if speed and durability are higher priorities than maximizing capacity, then an SSD may be worth the extra cost.
Use Cases
External HDDs and SSDs both have advantages and disadvantages that make them better suited for certain use cases. Here is an overview of when HDDs and SSDs excel:
External HDDs tend to be preferable in these use cases:
- You need a lot of storage capacity – HDDs offer more storage for less money. A 4TB external HDD is affordable, while 4TB SSDs are prohibitively expensive for most.
- You plan to store large files like videos, photos, games, etc. The lower cost per GB makes HDDs ideal for massive storage.
- You won’t access the data frequently or need top speeds. HDDs have slower access times, so are fine for archival or backup storage.
External SSDs tend to be better in these use cases:
- You need something portable with fast access. The speed, size, and silence of SSDs make them super portable.
- You frequently access the same files. SSDs provide consistently fast speeds thanks to lack of moving parts.
- You travel or move around often with the drive. SSDs are more durable and withstand vibration/shock.
- You work with large files regularly like high-res photos, videos, databases, etc. SSDs improve productivity with faster open times.
In general, if you need maximum capacity and storage, external HDDs are ideal. But if speed, durability and portability matter most, external SSDs are worth the higher cost per GB.
Conclusion
In summary, external SSDs and external HDDs have some key differences:
- SSDs are much faster for data transfer speeds and operation, while HDDs are cheaper per gigabyte of storage.
- SSDs are more durable with no moving parts, while HDDs can fail due to shock damage to internal parts.
- SSDs are smaller and lighter, while HDDs require more space and weigh more.
- SSDs are silent, while HDDs can make audible noises during operation.
- SSDs offer better security with full disk encryption support.
- SSDs have wider compatibility with different devices and operating systems.
In general, external SSDs are recommended over HDDs unless you need high capacities of storage on a tight budget. SSDs are much faster, more secure, durable, and portable. The extra speed and reliability of SSDs outweigh their higher cost-per-gigabyte for many users.
If you need lots of external storage and can’t afford a large SSD, an HDD is acceptable. But for external storage where speed, security, and reliability matter, choose an external SSD over an external HDD.