These Signs Tell You a Hard Drive is On Its Way Out

The demand for digital storage has skyrocketed over time. While hard disk drives (HDDs) once dominated the market, solid-state drives (SSDs) are now becoming more popular thanks to their speed, durability, and increasing affordability.

That said, HDDs are still in wide use, though they are far more susceptible to failure compared to SSDs. So, how can you spot the signs that your hard drive might be on the verge of failing?

Today, we break it down.

The Current State of HDDs

Typically, an HDD will last between four and eight years under normal conditions. Heavy users can expect their drives to fail on the shorter end of that range. HDDs depend on moving parts to operate, and while they’re fairly reliable at first—with only about 5% failing in the first year—the likelihood of failure increases with time. After three years, 12% fail, and by eight years, that number jumps to 50%.

Common HDD Problems

Because HDDs constantly write and overwrite data, wear and tear is inevitable, eventually leading to failure. Be on the lookout (or listen, rather) for unusual clicks or grinding noises—these are classic signs that your HDD is approaching the end of its life. A noticeable slowdown in performance is another red flag that the drive may be about to give out.

The most obvious sign your HDD needs to be replaced is when you frequently get the Blue Screen of Death (BSoD). This critical error signals that it’s time to either back up your data or install a new drive—ideally, you’ll do both.

Why You Should Consider SSDs for Your PC

If you’re ready to upgrade, SSDs are a great alternative. Not only are they significantly faster than HDDs, but they also have no moving parts, which makes them less prone to mechanical failure. With data stored electronically, SSDs are more reliable, especially in mobile devices. Under the same conditions, an HDD would wear out much more quickly. You’d also find it difficult to fit a reliable HDD that would fit in a small device like a smartphone, so there’s that.

Ensuring Your Business Has the Right Hardware

It’s crucial that your business is equipped with the best technology. We’re here to make sure your hardware is optimized for your needs, properly implemented, and managed for long-term success. To learn more, give us a call at (415) 246-0101.