💾 SSDs vs HDDs: What's the Difference and Why It Matters (Part 3 of the 'How Not to Get a Rubbish Computer' Series)
When you're buying a new computer or upgrading an old one, the type of storage it uses makes a huge difference. In this part of the series, we explain the difference between SSDs and HDDs and why you should care. 🧠💡
This is Part 3 of our 'How Not to Get a Rubbish Computer' series, helping you make smart choices when it comes to PC components. 🚀
🧠 What’s the Difference?
🔹 HDD (Hard Disk Drive) – Traditional storage with spinning disks. Slower, noisier, and more prone to damage. 💾
🔹 SSD (Solid State Drive) – No moving parts. Faster, quieter, more reliable, and uses less power. ⚡
⚡ Why SSDs Are Better for Most People
✅ Speed – SSDs load your system, apps, and files way faster. You’ll notice the difference instantly.
✅ Durability – SSDs are more shock-resistant, making them ideal for laptops.
✅ Energy Efficiency – Better for battery life and energy bills.
✅ Silence – SSDs make no noise at all.
📏 How Much Storage Do You Need?
Here's a rough guide to help you decide:
🔹 250GB – Enough for basic users (web browsing, email, light office use). 🔹 500GB – Ideal for most people: room for Windows, apps, and some personal files.
🔹 1TB – Great for gamers, media collectors, or small business use.
🔹 2TB+ – For those storing lots of video, photos, or working with large files regularly.
💡 Tip: Always leave at least 15-20% of your SSD free. Performance drops if it gets too full.
🤔 Why Do Some PCs Still Use HDDs?
Simple: they're cheaper and offer more storage for less money. That’s why you’ll still see HDDs in budget PCs or for storing large files like videos.
But if your PC only has an HDD and feels slow, that’s probably why. 💡
🔍 What Should You Get?
Go for an SSD if performance matters at all (which it usually does). Even a small SSD (e.g. 250GB) will make a massive difference.
If you need lots of storage, combine an SSD for your system and apps, and a large HDD for bulk file storage.
Don’t overpay for huge SSDs if you’re a light user – but don’t get stuck with one too small either.
SSD = A tidy bookshelf where everything is easy to find and reach 📚✨
HDD = A dusty attic full of boxes you have to rummage through 🕸️📦
🔮 Future-Proofing
SSDs are the standard now. Choosing a system without one is like buying a car with a cassette player.
📢 Not Sure What You’ve Got?
Wondering if your computer has an SSD or HDD? Want help upgrading? We can help you check, advise, and upgrade your system quickly.
📧 Email us: hello@kalidus.com
🌐 Visit our website: www.kalidus.com
📞 Call us: 01904 952 265
📌 Next in the series: Graphics Cards – Do You Really Need One? Stay tuned!
