Which Data Storage Option Is The Best One For You?

The choice of which data storage device is right for you has changed over the years. With different types and brands available, it’s important to know how they work so that you can use the equipment efficiently.

Knowing about data storage devices helps you to invest in the most fittable one for your goal. 

If we just look at SSDs, HDDs, and SSHDs, these devices have specific configurations for different uses. An HDD (hard drive), for example, stores data magnetically on its surface. The SSD (Solid-state drives) does not use any magnetic material but ‌travels along specially prepared surfaces. 

Their performance, volume, processing time, memory, and even size are part of comparisons when it comes to SSD, HD, or hybrid (SSHD) devices. And all of it together is supposed to be on your pro and con list when choosing the right data storage device.

Smaller devices such as Flash drives and SD cards are perfect for those that need to have smaller amounts of data accessible on the go. It’s no surprise that SD cards are essential for those working in photography. 

Then we have the data storage systems that drive entire businesses. RAID storage configurations and Network Attached Storage (NAS) are known for their incredible storage capacity, as well as having some safeguards against data loss, depending on the configuration.

Top Summary: Choosing the perfect data storage device can be tricky when you don’t have all the information you need. No matter if you’re building your first PC gaming or are looking for the best RAID configuration for your business, there is a perfect drive for your goal.

Data storage available options

Solid State Drives

Solid-state drive (SSD) is a relatively new technology that has come out, which allows more data storage capability in less space. A great option for laptops. 

SSDs are a significant investment for anyone who uses their computer to store information. They’re more expensive than hard drives, but they don’t have the drawbacks of being worn out by warning lights or getting slower as it fills up with data like traditional spinning platter-based storage does. The best part about them is how fast you can access things when needed since they have a better processing time.

Hard Drives

There are a few differences between SSD and HDD. HD, for example, is the most common type of storage system for PCs, mostly because of their accessible cost. 

They work with both recording and retrieving data stored on a rotating magnetic surface that has heads attached at various points throughout its thickness. This ensures perfect precision when reading out any information needed from these devices.

An important point that helps with any decision is that HD prices can still be quite low, despite being capable entities. Especially when compared to other options available today. On the other hand, HD does not have a processing time as fast as SSD does.

Meaning that HD is the best option if you prefer large data capacity over faster processing.

SSHD, a.k.a. Hybrids

The hard drive and solid-state both have their advantages. The SSD is faster than any other type, however, these devices also cost more per gigabyte. That is for several reasons, from the fact that SSD doesn’t have moving parts, to the manufacturing is still new.

Meanwhile, HD can be slower but have greater data capacity. And they also cost less, being more accessible and popular. That’s why laptops with Hd costs less than the ones with SSD. Also, the same explanation can be used for the rise of PCs with both, making the system loading faster (due to SSD), and having terabytes of data capacity (thanks to HD).

Hybrid drives (aka SSHD) combine the best qualities of each type. They have a lot of data space, and large compatibility with formats and devices, plus it has fast processing speed. SSHD is also very cost-effective, being a good investment.

Flash drives

Flash drives are small, portable devices that allow you to store data locally. They use USB ports to connect to other devices, being ideal for people who need quick and easy access to their data. Flash drives have a smaller cost in comparison with other storage devices, making them a popular choice.

Flash drives’ weaknesses make them a not-so-trustful device for permanent data storage. For example, they are more susceptible to damage, or you can easily lose them due to their size. They also have a limited storage capacity compared to other storage options. 

Their plus side is how practical they are when you need to transfer a small amount of data from one physical place to another, fitting in your pocket. 

SD cards

SD cards are a great option for storage, but which one is the best for you? SDHC cards are a great choice for cameras, tablets, and other devices that need a lot of storage space. SDXC cards are perfect for larger files, such as videos and photos. If you need a card that is both SDHC and SDXC compatible, look for a card that is SDHC UHS-I or SDXC UHS-I. This will ensure that the card can handle both SDHC and SDXC files.

They are also small and easy to transport. Unfortunately, they are also easy to lose or damage. It’s a good idea to have a recovery plan if you use them for work, as professional photographers usually do.

RAID storage and Network Attached Storage (NAS)

Although both businesses and individuals can benefit from most storage options, RAID and NAS are more used by companies.

RAID is ideal for businesses that need a lot of storage space. It allows you to combine multiple hard drives into one large pool, which makes it a great option for storing large files.

NAS is another great option for businesses that need a lot of storage space. It allows you to store files on a central server, which makes it easy to access them from anywhere in your network.

Their differences are in how they store the data. Their similarity is that they are very reliable and secure, but not flawless. So, make sure all your business-sensitive data is backed up to another secure place regularly.

RAID Calculator: Learn the RAID configuration requirements, redundancy, parity, and disk availability with our real-time RAID calculator.

Cloud storage 

Cloud storage is a great option for anyone who wants to keep their files safe and accessible. Cloud services usually offer plenty of storage space for free, and when they do charge their users, the price is usually less than a physical device, having a great cost-benefit. 

Even though cloud services are very secure, they have higher chances of cyberattacks or server loss. Data can still get lost from the Cloud, so make sure your data is backed up elsewhere as well.

Summary: Each hard drive has specifications that will benefit the user, which means you’ll have to choose the one that is most suitable for your purpose. A good idea for those building their PC, for example, is to use SSD for the system and HD for data storage. Explore your possibilities and invest in the option that will last longer and can keep your data protected.

Any storage device you decide to go with will need data protection, such as antivirus, and a secure second device for backup. It’s also a good idea to have a data recovery plan, just in case. 

You can always trust our experts for anything you need with your data. Find an authorized data recovery center near you.