Hybrid hard disk or SSD - a comparison

Hybrid hard disks are a combination of the mechanical storage system of HDDs and the flash memory of SSDs. They are worthwhile, for example, for computers in which only one HDD can be installed. So you don't have to choose between HDD and SSD.

Should you buy a hybrid or an SSD hard drive?

A hybrid hard drive combines the advantages of an SSD and an HDD hard drive. So if you need a hard drive for programs and operating system, but also need additional hard drive space for files, a hybrid hard drive makes more sense than an SSD. If you have enough storage space on your HDD, you can supplement it well with an SSD-only hard drive.

The differences

1. Mode of operation: SSD hard drives store data on flash memory, while HDD hard drives store data on a magnetic disk. Hybrid hard drives use both modes of operation.
2. Storage: An SSD hard drive is more expensive and is primarily intended for programs and the operating system. An HDD serves as storage for personal data such as photos and music. With a hybrid hard drive, you get a small flash memory and a large HDD memory of several terabytes.
3. Memory optimization: On a hybrid hard drive, frequently used data is automatically stored on the flash memory, and the computer thus gradually gains speed.

Advantages and disadvantages

1. Noise pollution: Since there are no mechanical parts installed in an SSD hard drive, SSDs operate silently. Hybrid HDDs produce a humming noise due to the mechanical storage process.
2. Lifetime: Due to the installed HDDs, hybrid HDDs have a longer lifetime than pure SSDs. SSDs are more sensitive to shocks and have to be replaced after a few years.
3. Speed: Hybrid HDDs are slower than SSDs, because the mechanical part of the HDD does not work as fast as the flash memory.