Do Games Run Worse on External Hard Drive?
When it comes to playing games, a reliable and fast storage device is crucial. Many gamers consider using external hard drives (HDDs) or solid-state drives (SSDs) to store their games. However, the question remains: do games run worse on external hard drives?
The Short Answer
Yes, games generally run worse on external hard drives compared to internal SSDs or HDDs. The main reason is the slower data transfer rate of external hard drives, which can lead to longer loading times and slower game performance.
Why External Hard Drives are Slower
External hard drives use traditional spinning disks and mechanical arms to read and write data, which makes them slower than internal SSDs. SSDs, on the other hand, use flash memory to store data, making them much faster. The slower data transfer rate of external hard drives can lead to:
- Longer loading times: Games may take longer to load, which can be frustrating for players.
- Slower game performance: Games may experience slower frame rates, lower resolutions, or reduced graphics quality.
- Increased latency: External hard drives may introduce additional latency, making it harder to respond to in-game actions.
The Impact on Game Performance
Here’s a table comparing the average read and write speeds of internal SSDs and external hard drives:
| Device | Average Read Speed | Average Write Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Internal SSD | 500-1000 MB/s | 300-800 MB/s |
| External Hard Drive | 50-100 MB/s | 20-50 MB/s |
As you can see, internal SSDs offer significantly faster read and write speeds than external hard drives. This can make a significant difference in game performance.
When to Use an External Hard Drive
While external hard drives may not be the best choice for gaming, there are scenarios where they can be useful:
- Backup purposes: External hard drives can be used to backup game data, saves, and other important files.
- Data storage: External hard drives can be used to store large amounts of data, such as game files, movies, or music.
- Sharing files: External hard drives can be used to share files between devices, making it easier to transfer game data or other files.
Conclusion
In conclusion, games generally run worse on external hard drives compared to internal SSDs. The slower data transfer rate of external hard drives can lead to longer loading times, slower game performance, and increased latency. While external hard drives may have their uses, they are not the best choice for gaming. If you’re looking for a reliable and fast storage solution for gaming, consider using an internal SSD or a high-speed external SSD.