Solid state drives, also known as SSDs, have become a popular storage technology in computers over the past decade. They offer a number of advantages over traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). The main advantage of an SSD is the incredible speed at which data can be accessed.
What makes SSDs faster than HDDs?
SSDs are faster than HDDs for two key reasons:
- No moving parts – SSDs have no moving mechanical components, unlike the spinning platters and read/write heads in HDDs.
- Faster data access – SSDs can access data almost instantly, while HDDs require time for the read/write head to move to the correct location on the disk platter.
This lack of moving parts and faster data access provides a couple of noticeable speed advantages:
1. Much faster boot times
When you start up your computer, it has to load the operating system and files from the drive. SSDs can do this in just a few seconds, while HDDs require 30 seconds or more in many cases. With an SSD, you can be up and running almost as soon as you hit the power button.
2. Much faster file access and data transfer
Anytime you open an application, load a file or move data around, the SSD can complete the task dramatically faster than a HDD. This applies to opening large programs like video editing software, where SSDs can open files in seconds rather than the minutes it takes on HDDs.
3. Improved overall system performance
The speed advantages of SSDs adds up to a snappier, more responsive computer experience. Things happen instantly when you click or touch. There’s no waiting for apps to open or files to load. The computer feels ready to go right away.
Are there any downsides to SSDs?
SSDs have largely overcome early limitations and are now the storage technology of choice for most computers. However, there are a couple potential disadvantages to consider:
- Higher cost per gigabyte – SSDs are more expensive than HDDs in terms of cost per gigabyte of storage. The price gap has narrowed over time but HDDs remain cheaper for very large storage needs.
- Limited number of write cycles – Data can only be written and erased from NAND flash memory a certain number of times before cells begin to fail. However, modern SSDs are highly durable and unlikely to be written enough in a typical consumer PC to reach this limit.
For most users, the speed and performance benefits of SSDs easily outweigh the downsides. The extra cost per gigabyte is a worthwhile investment to dramatically improve general computer performance. And SSD lifespan has improved to the point where drive failures are uncommon.
What are the most important specs to consider for an SSD?
Here are a few key specifications to look at when comparing SSD options:
- Interface – The connection between the SSD and computer. Common options are SATA, NVMe and M.2. Faster interfaces like NVMe provide better bandwidth for peak SSD speeds.
- Capacity – Amount of storage space. Ranges from 120GB to 4TB+. Make sure to get enough capacity for your needs.
- Form factor – Physical size and connector of the SSD. Common form factors are 2.5-inch SATA, M.2 and U.2.
- NAND type – The memory technology used by the SSD. TLC and QLC NAND offer slower write speeds but extra storage capacity.
- DRAM cache – Memory to cache frequently accessed data. DRAM-less SSDs are slower but more affordable.
- Endurance rating – Estimate for how much data can be written to the drive before wear-out. Higher ratings indicate better lifespan.
- Sequential read/write – Top data transfer speeds under ideal conditions. Higher is better but may not impact real-world usage.
Consider the interface, capacity, price and warranty length to choose a SSD with the right blend of features and reliability.
How does an SSD work? What’s inside?
The key components inside a solid state drive include:
- NAND flash memory – Stores data on memory chips with no moving parts. Arranged in cells that can be electrically programmed and erased.
- Controller – The processor that manages communications between the flash memory and computer. Performs error checking and other tasks.
- DRAM cache – Provides fast access to frequently used data. Improves write speeds and lifespan of the SSD.
- Firmware – Software that provides instructions for the controller to properly operate the SSD.
Data is stored on the NAND flash memory cells. The controller then communicates with the computer over the SSD interface to relay data to and from the NAND memory as needed. The DRAM cache stores frequently accessed data for quicker access.
How is data read and written?
Data is written to and read from NAND flash memory cells in blocks. When new data comes in, it is written to empty blocks. When data needs to be updated or deleted, the old data block is erased before writing the updated data.
The process of programming and erasing cells causes wear over time. That’s why SSDs have a limit on the number of write/erase cycles before failure. However, modern SSDs typically last for many years even with heavy everyday use.
How does an SSD compare to RAM?
| SSD | RAM |
|---|---|
| Non-volatile memory – Retains data after power off | Volatile memory – Loses data after power off |
| Slower than RAM | Much faster than SSD |
| Higher capacity – 120GB to 4TB+ | Lower capacity – Typically 4 to 32GB |
| Stores programs and data | Temporarily stores data being actively used |
While both are types of computer memory, SSDs and RAM serve different purposes. SSDs provide durable, affordable long-term storage. RAM offers temporary data storage with ultra fast access speeds necessary during processing.
What are the most common types of SSD?
SSD technology continues advancing rapidly, but most SSDs fall into one of these categories:
SATA SSD
- Uses the standard SATA interface
- Compatible with most desktops and laptops
- 2.5-inch form factor
- Peak speeds around 550MB/s
NVMe SSD
- Utilizes faster PCIe Gen3 x4 NVMe interface
- Increasingly common in new PCs
- M.2 form factor
- Much higher speeds over 3,000MB/s
Portable SSD
- External SSD in a compact, durable case
- Typically connects via USB 3.0 or USB-C
- May require external power in some cases
- Portable and works across devices
M.2 NVMe SSDs are ideal for those building or customizing a PC. Portable SSDs provide fast external storage. SATA remains a good budget option for older systems.
Should I upgrade my HDD to an SSD?
Upgrading from a hard disk drive to a solid state drive provides the single biggest performance improvement you can make for an older computer. The difference an SSD makes is like getting a whole new PC.
Replacing a slow HDD with an SSD will provide:
- Faster boot times – Up to 4x quicker to start Windows and apps
- Snappier everyday tasks – No more waiting on files and programs to open
- Faster game loading – Huge improvements in game load times
- More reliable performance – No slowdowns from fragmented files
With SSD prices lower than ever, there’s never been a better time to upgrade. It’s highly recommended for those whose computers still use traditional hard drives.
What are the best SSD brands?
Some of the top SSD manufacturers include:
Samsung
- Industry leader in SSD reliability and performance
- Fast NVMe drives like 970 EVO Plus
- Also makes SATA, M.2 and portable SSDs
Crucial
- Known for affordable, quality SSDs
- MX500 is a popular high-value SATA SSD
- Also offers NVMe, M.2 and portable SSDs
Western Digital
- Major hard drive brand also manufactures SSDs
- Blue SN550 is a good NVMe value SSD
- Extensive SSD product line-up
Intel
- Legendary processor company makes SSDs too
- Reliable, mid-range cost NVMe SSDs
- Also offers Optane memory and storage products
Stick to well-known brands for the best mix of speed, endurance and reliability. Check reviews for real-world performance data.
How can I optimize Windows for best SSD performance?
Follow these tips to get the most from your SSD in Windows:
- Enable AHCI mode – Switch SATA mode to AHCI for native command queuing.
- Turn off defragging – Defragging is unnecessary on SSDs and reduces lifespan.
- Disable SuperFetch and Prefetch – These features slow SSD performance.
- Use the SSD for the OS – Install Windows and most-used apps on the SSD.
- Limit background writes – Disable unwanted background processes and indexing.
- Keep 10-15% free space – Having spare capacity avoids slowing write speeds.
Properly configuring Windows along with smart software choices will ensure your SSD runs optimally.
Conclusion
Solid state drives transform computer performance with dramatically faster speeds compared to hard disk drives. This speed advantage comes from having no moving parts and faster access to data on flash memory chips. SSDs provide huge improvements to boot times, app load times and overall snappiness of a computer.
While more expensive per gigabyte than HDDs, SSD prices have dropped significantly in recent years. With speeds up to 5x faster than hard drives, SSDs are one of the best upgrades you can make for an older computer. Key specs to compare include interface, capacity, NAND type and endurance rating.
SSD technology keeps improving. But even affordable SATA SSDs from top brands like Samsung, Crucial and Western Digital will provide a massive speed boost. With SSDs standard in new PCs, upgrading to a solid state drive is highly recommended if your computer still uses a mechanical hard drive.