In decades past, your most likely storage option was a floppy disk or compact disc (CD). These devices offered improvements when compared to their predecessors due to greater storage capacity and more durable physical structure. Fast-forward to the year 2014 where a host of storage options are available to gadget users including internal, external and network attached storage—devices which store million times more data. This plethora of storage solutions is crucial in a world where data is continuously expanding. In addition, these storage devices provide access that would otherwise be more difficult to transfer from cloud storage.
Internal Storage          Â
Internal storage usually comes in the form of hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs), both of which allow your gadget’s programs and operating systems to function. Since internal storage is connected directly to your computer’s motherboard, the data stored on your hard drive offers faster and more reliable storage access than USB and other storage devices.
The next time you purchase a laptop or similar gadget, consider the difference between hard disk drives (HHDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). These drives differ as it relates to price, capacity, speed and durability.
Price
HHDs are traditionally the more widely accepted means of storing application, files and booting your system. Since HHDs were on the market long before SSDs they are generally more affordable than their counterpart.
Capacity
HHDs also offer more capacity than the average SSD. Hard drives can store as much as 6 terabytes (TB) of data—6 thousand gigabytes (GBs) while a solid-state drive’s maximum capacity is currently 1 TB. If your device has multiple users or you’re simply a hoarder of media, you’ll need a drive that’ll provide significant capacity.
Speed
SSDs are definitely at an advantage when it comes to speed. These drives boot your computer in a few seconds and outperform HHDs which usually require a longer time to boot your computer and run apps.
Durability
If you want a drive that’ll withstand a fall, SSDs are your best option. Since they do not have movable parts, these drives are less susceptible to damage.
External Storage
Those who use computers and mobile devices can protect themselves from loss of data by using an external drive. Such a device is usually connected to your PC, laptop or mobile device through the use of USB or Thunderbolt cables.
Flash Drives
Flash drives are one of the most convenient options for those who seek external storage. These small devices replaced floppy disks due to the fact that they offer considerably larger data storage options. Though thumb drives are much smaller than other forms of data storage, many have incredible capacities.
In 2013, the largest-capacity USB was 1 TB. Thus, USB may be a suitable choice for those who store excessive amounts of data such as movies, audio and other files. However, one of the main disadvantages of this device is its relatively slow speed when compared to hard disk drives and solid-state drives.
Several flash drives are small enough to be permanently connected to your device. The SanDisk Cruzer Fit is a great choice for those who want a less conspicuous USB. Due to its size, users can leave it plugged in to their device. That way it’ll act as a convenient extension to your computer’s storage. Though the SanDisk Cruzer Fit does not support USB 3.0, its fast transfer speed is enough to satisfy most users. Consumers can check out online review lists for other options or visit the sites of USB makers such as Kingston or SanDisk.
External hard drives
External hard drives enable users to access files from multiple devices and are a convenient option since unlike internal drives, many offer portability. The type of device you choose will fall in one of two categories:
Desktop-class drives
This type of drive requires a power adapter and is stationary. Users who choose this option should consider purchasing one with a built-in fan since an internal cooling system will increase its longevity.  However, they may not be the ideal choice for those who want a more portable option. That’s where laptop-class or portable drives come in to play.
Laptop-class drives
This option uses a connecting cable instead of a power adapter. Those who want the fastest speed should use Thunderbolt or USB 3.0 since these are more efficient than USB 2.0 or other counterparts.
Determine which type of external storage option matches your needs by evaluating cost, speed as well as other determining factors. For added security, a drive that offers encryption is a must-have. Such storage devices ensure that your data is inaccessible if it falls into the wrong hands.
Network Attached Storage (NAS)
Network attached storage (NAS) provides storage solutions across your entire network by connecting to your router or a switch. They differ from other storage devices since instead of being directly attached to a computer they’re attached to a network. Such devices are provided their own IP address allowing faster application program and file transfer speeds.
This reliable hard drive storage device is ideal for those who have multiple computers on their network since such users often need an apt solution in order to back up multiple files and share devices across their network.
In order to get the best NAS, ensure that the device offers several of the following features:
- Large data storage capacity
- Remote access via cloud service
- media streaming software
- Low noise level
- Energy efficient
As the Digital Age extends into the future, the need for data storage devices will increase exponentially. This is especially true since computer users are storing pictures, video and other forms of data more than ever before. Consumers who understand the types of storage available — HDDs, SSDs USB flash drives or NASes—have a greater likelihood of purchasing the best storage devices for their gadgets.
*http://www.apple.com/thunderbolt/
How to Choose the Best Storage Devices for your Gadgets
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