Here are four distinct features of a storage medium, along with a comparison between hard disks and flash drives based on these features:
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Speed:
- Hard Disk: Generally slower read/write speeds due to mechanical parts (spinning platters and moving read/write heads). Typical speeds range from 100-200 MB/s.
- Flash Drive: Usually faster, especially if it uses USB 3.0 or higher. Read/write speeds can range from 200 MB/s to over 1,000 MB/s depending on the model.
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Durability:
- Hard Disk: More prone to physical damage due to moving parts. Sensitive to shock, vibration, and temperature changes.
- Flash Drive: More durable and shock-resistant since it has no moving parts, making it better suited for portable use.
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Capacity:
- Hard Disk: Typically offers higher storage capacities, ranging from several hundred gigabytes to multiple terabytes (e.g., 1TB, 2TB, and beyond).
- Flash Drive: While flash drives have been increasing in capacity, they generally offer lower maximum capacities compared to hard disks, commonly ranging from a few gigabytes up to 2TB or more for high-end models.
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Form Factor:
- Hard Disk: Usually larger and bulkier, often used in desktop computers and servers. They come in standard sizes like 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch formats.
- Flash Drive: Compact and portable, designed for easy transport and convenience; they can easily fit in a pocket or on a keychain.
Summary
In summary, hard disks are generally slower, more vulnerable to damage, offer larger capacities, and come in bulkier forms, while flash drives are faster, more durable, have lower capacities on average, and are much more portable.
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