Comparison of HDD and SSD with important exam points, differences, and MCQs — useful for SSC, Bank PO, JKSSB, SBI PO, etc.
🔹 HDD (Hard Disk Drive)
Definition:
A traditional storage device that uses spinning disks (platters) to read/write data using a mechanical arm.
Key Points:
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Uses magnetic storage.
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Has moving mechanical parts.
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Slower read/write speed.
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Cheaper per GB.
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More storage capacity (commonly 500 GB – 4 TB).
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Heavier and more power-consuming.
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More prone to damage due to moving parts.
🔹 SSD (Solid State Drive)
Definition:
A newer type of storage device that stores data on flash memory chips (like a USB drive), with no moving parts.
Key Points:
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Uses flash memory.
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Much faster than HDD (Boot time and file transfer).
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More expensive per GB.
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Lower capacity compared to HDD (commonly 128 GB – 1 TB).
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Lightweight, silent, and energy-efficient.
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Durable and shock-resistant (no mechanical parts).
🔸 HDD vs SSD - Comparison Table
| Feature | HDD | SSD |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Hard Disk Drive | Solid State Drive |
| Speed | Slower | Much faster |
| Cost | Cheaper | Expensive |
| Durability | Less durable (mechanical parts) | More durable |
| Weight | Heavier | Lightweight |
| Power Consumption | More | Less |
| Noise | Audible (spinning sound) | Silent |
| Boot Time (OS) | ~30-60 seconds | ~10-15 seconds |
🔹 Important Points for Exams:
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SSDs have no moving parts, making them faster and more durable.
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HDDs are preferred for bulk storage at lower cost.
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SSDs are used in modern laptops, tablets, and high-performance PCs.
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SSDs reduce boot time and improve system responsiveness.
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HDDs are magnetic storage devices, while SSDs use flash memory.
🔸 Frequently Asked MCQs
1. What type of storage device is an HDD?
A) Optical
B) Magnetic
C) Solid State
D) Cloud
✅ Answer: B) Magnetic
2. Which storage device has no moving parts?
A) HDD
B) SSD
C) CD-ROM
D) Blu-Ray
✅ Answer: B) SSD
3. Which is faster in data access?
A) HDD
B) SSD
✅ Answer: B) SSD
4. What is the full form of SSD?
A) Smart Storage Device
B) Solid Storage Disk
C) Solid State Drive
D) System Storage Device
✅ Answer: C) Solid State Drive
5. Which of the following is more durable?
A) HDD
B) SSD
✅ Answer: B) SSD