Part 4: Storage - SSDs and HDDs

Storage is where all your files live permanently - your operating system, programs, games, photos, and documents.

Understanding the difference between SSDs and HDDs will help you build a faster, better PC.

SSD vs HDD: What's the Difference?

HDD (Hard Disk Drive):

• Uses spinning metal platters
• Slow (takes time to find and load files)
• Cheap ($15-20 per TB)
• Good for: Bulk storage, backups
• Loud, fragile (moving parts)

SSD (Solid State Drive):

• No moving parts (like a giant USB drive)
• FAST (10-100x faster than HDD!)
• More expensive ($50-80 per TB)
• Silent, durable
• Good for: Everything!

Rule #1: Always use an SSD for your operating system (Windows) Rule #2: SSDs for programs and games you play often Rule #3: HDD for bulk storage if you need lots of space cheap

Types of SSDs

• M.2 NVMe SSD (Modern, Fast):
  • Looks like a stick of gum
  • Plugs directly into motherboard
  • No cables needed!
  • Please choose this one!
• 2.5" SATA SSD (Older, Slower):
  • Looks like small flat box
  • Needs cables
  • Speed: 550 MB/s (still way faster than HDD)
  • Good for older PCs

For new builds: Always choose M.2 NVMe

How Much Storage Do You Need?

Consider what you'll store:

500GB: Minimum

• Windows + programs + 3-5 games
• Tight but workable

1TB: Sweet Spot (Recommended)

• Windows + programs + 8-10 games
• Comfortable for most people
• Our recommendation ↓

2TB: Plenty of Room

• Large game library
• Content creation files
• Future-proof

Modern game sizes for reference:

• Call of Duty: 150-200GB (huge!)
• Cyberpunk 2077: 70GB
• Fortnite: 30GB
• Indie games: 1-20GB

Our Recommendation

For fast, reliable storage:

WD Black SN850X 1TB NVMe SSD Check Price on Amazon

Why we love it:

• 1TB capacity (perfect size)
• 7,300 MB/s read speed (very fast!)
• Reliable WD quality
• 5-year warranty
• Great for OS, programs, and games
• Price: ~$90-110

This drive makes your whole PC feel snappy and responsive.

Storage Strategy

Best setup for most people:

Option 1 (Simple):

• 1TB NVMe SSD for everything
• Clean, fast, easy

Option 2 (More Storage):

• 1TB NVMe SSD (OS, programs, favorite games)
• 2TB HDD (bulk storage, older games, media)
• Good balance of speed and capacity

Start with Option 1. Add HDD later if you need more space!

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Installing Windows on HDD - Everything will be slow!
• ❌ Filling SSD to 100% - Slows it down, leave 10-20% free
• ❌ Defragmenting SSD - Never do this, it wears out the drive
• ❌ Not checking M.2 slots - Make sure your motherboard has one

Summary

• Always use SSD for Windows (never HDD!)
• M.2 NVMe is fastest and easiest (no cables)
• 1TB is the sweet spot for most people
• WD Black SN850X offers great performance
• Can add more storage anytime

Next: Part 5 - Cases and Cooling →

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