The basic difference between SSD and HDD is that Solid State Drive stores the data in integrated circuits and a Hard Disk Drive stores data magnetically, through spinning disks. They can also be compared in terms of their speed, adaptability, technical modernity, and user experience.
A Hard Disk Drive is the commonly used storage disk, which uses a moving read/write head to access data. This is the traditional type of storage unit which is used in Computer devices.
On the other hand, a Solid State Drive is a faster, no-motion, and more efficient secondary storage that stores data using flash memory.
To know more about the various other Computer Storage Devices, candidates can visit the linked article.
In this article, we shall discuss the various points of comparison between SSD and HDD for aspirants preparing for the upcoming IAS Exam.
Difference Between SSD and HDD PDF:-Download PDF Here
Similar computer-related topics may be asked in the UPSC and other Government exams conducted in the country. Either a separate Computer Knowledge section may be included or questions may be asked in general awareness. Specifically, for IAS, such questions are included in the Science and Technology part of the syllabus.
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| Input and Output Devices | Components of Computer |
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SSD vs HDD – Comparative Analysis
A tabulated comparison between the Hard Disk Drive and Solid State Drive is given below. Refer to the points of difference and analyse which among the two is better and more suitable for use.
| Difference Between SSD and HDD | |
| SSD | HDD |
| Full Form: Solid State Drive | Full Form: Hard Disk Drive |
| Movement: It is a solid drive, and no movement occurs while its functioning | Movement: It is a moving drive, and the hard disk spins when it is functioning |
| Speed: It has the faster processing speed | Speed: The processing speed is low in comparison to SSD |
| Latency: It has low latency | Latency: It has high latency |
| Storage – When it comes to capacity, SSDs for computers are available in 120 GB to 4 TB capacities | Storage – HDDs can go anywhere from 250 GB to 14 TB |
| R/W Time: It has a shorter Read/Write time | R/W Time: It has a longer Read/Write time |
| Weight: In terms of weight, SSD is lighter in comparison to HDD. This is because no external mechanics or motor is attached to the drive | Weight: HDD is heavier |
| Power Consumption: No motion results in less use of electricity or power while using these | Power Consumption: Because of the spinning platters, more electricity and power is consumed |
| Cost: It is a modern storage drive and is costlier | Cost: It is a traditional storage drive and a bit cheaper in comparison to SSD |
| Size: It is smaller in size | Size: It is larger in size |
| Safety: SSD is more reliable in comparison to HDD | Safety: In case of any error in the drive, the entire HDD may crash and result in loss of data. This makes it less reliable |
All the points mentioned above, clearly state that although they are both storage devices and are used to boot the system, their features and functioning is different.
Both Solid State Drive and Hard Disk Drive are Input-Output devices and form an essential part of any computer system. Aspirants can also know the Fundamentals of Computer, at the linked article.
Apart from analysing the above SSD vs HDD comparison, candidates can also refer to the links below and get other important computer-based differences between articles for their Government exam preparation:
- Difference Between Search Engine and Web Browser
- Difference Between RAM and ROM
- Difference Between Hardware and Software
- Difference Between IPV4 and IPV 6
- Difference Between Firewall and Antivirus
- Difference Between WWW and Internet
- Difference Between Virus and Malware
- Difference Between TCP/IP and OSI Model
- Difference Between Virus and Worm
Aspirants can get various other Difference Between Articles from the different sections of the UPSC syllabus at the linked article.
Frequently Asked Questions on Difference Between SSD vs HDD
Q 1. SSD vs HDD: Which is the difference?
Q 2. Is HDD faster than SSD?
Q 3. Which are the common Solid State Drives?
Ans. Given below are examples of Solid State Drives (SSD):
- USB pen drives
- SD cards
- Micro SD cards
Q 4. Which between SSD and HDD is cost-effective?
Furthermore, candidates looking for more study material or preparation strategy for IAS or other Government exams can turn to BYJU’S for expert assistance.
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