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Resolved Question

Which is better a 5400 rpm or a 7200 rpm hard drive and why?

Aug 2, 2011 3:44PM PDT

I'm ready to upgrade but both speed drives are offered as thou they are the same - which is better in the long haul with 2TB's or better?

Discussion is locked

tedmathews has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer

Best Answer

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Depends
Aug 3, 2011 3:09AM PDT

5400 is slower (doesn't read and write as fast) but uses less power

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Thanks
Aug 3, 2011 3:54PM PDT

Either seems to work - thanks for the help.
Ted

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Answer
You have to decide.
Aug 3, 2011 12:33AM PDT

If the 7200 speed is worth it. No one can tell you if you think that's better or the slightly less speedy 5400 with it's less heat and noise (usually) makes it the better choice.

You have to define "better."
Bob

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Thanks
Aug 3, 2011 3:55PM PDT

Either seems to work - thanks for the help.Ted

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Answer
Which is better?
Aug 6, 2011 1:31AM PDT

Depends on your usage.
If you are using it as a shotput, the 5400 rpm drive is a bit lighter, so it
will probably travel further.
If you are aiming at a target, the 7400 rpm drive will do more damage.

All kidding aside, you probably won't notice a speed difference.
For a laptop, the 5400 RPM drive will consume less power.
If you use your laptop as a desktop, it won't matter, so if there is
a small price difference, I would go for the 7200 RPM drive.
That may also improve your chances of selling the laptop, later on.

Dave