Desktop Internal Hard Drives

Isn't it always surprising how quickly a computer runs out of space? When you first buy one, it always seems like you've got way more room than you'll ever need. Yet somehow, a little further down the line, you find yourself up against the ropes, struggling over what to delete just to keep your hard drive from maxing out. Well, that's where buying a new desktop internal hard drive comes in. Find out the answers to the most common questions about desktop internal hard drives to ensure you make the best decision.

What is a desktop internal hard drive?

An internal hard drive is your PC's main storage unit and is used to hold all your files, programs, and applications. As its name suggests, an internal hard drive is built directly into your computer, connected to your motherboard. The great thing about that is it lets you quickly and easily access all your personal files, from music and photos to videos and documents, without having to hook up an external hard drive.

What size internal hard drive do I need for my desktop?

The 3.5-inch internal hard drive is the standard form factor for desktop computers. It's also the biggest of all internal hard drives, meaning you'll benefit from the largest data storage capacities.

What internal hard drive capacity should I get?

The first step to figuring out the right capacity is determining your needs. How much do you plan on storing on your computer? What do you mainly use your computer for? If it's mostly for storing documents, photos, and a modestly sized music collection, a 500GB to 1TB hard drive should suffice. On the other hand, if you've got tons of photos, music, movies, and other files that eat up a lot of space, you'll want to seriously consider a 2TB or above.

What desktop internal hard drive speed makes the most sense for me?

Since hard drive speed directly affects how fast your stored data is accessed, the obvious answer is the faster the better. Measured in rpm (revolutions per minute), most hard drives fall in the range of 5400rpm to 7200rpm. Opting for a hard drive with 7200rpm will ensure quick data access for everyday storage needs and applications. For those who need a hard drive that'll be constantly accessing data, a 10,000rpm hard drive is likely the way to go.

What about internal hard drive interfaces?

Newer desktop internal hard drives are equipped with a Serial ATA (SATA) interface, while older units often feature a Parallel ATA (PATA) interface. The only thing you'll need to do here is double check that your computer is compatible with the drive's interface.