Network-attached storage (NAS) can interface with hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). These two technologies differ in operating and storing data. Older mechanical HDDs use motors and spinning platters with magnetic heads whereas an SSD is a newer technology and relies on electronic chips and cells to store data. HDDs have a maximum bandwidth of around 550MB/s under the right conditions whereas the fastest PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSDs top out at 15,000MB/s but SSDs are considerably more expensive than mechanical drives. When looking at new drives for your NAS, here are some reasons you should consider using SSDs.

5 Faster performance

An SSD is immensely faster and more capable than a mechanical drive. The SATA interface (for both SSDs and HDDs) tops out at around 550MB/s, depending on the device and drive. NVMe SSDs can go all the way up to 15,000MB/s with PCIe 5.0. These speeds are far beyond the average storage requirements, but if you work with lots of files or large data, having more bandwidth can save you valuable time with shorter transfers and more responsive applications. Even PCIe 4.0 SSDs can hit speeds north of 7,000MB/s, so you don't need to go with the best in the business to enjoy top-notch performance.

4 No moving parts

An SSD doesn't have to spin up platters and rotate them at precise speeds. Everything is handled through components on the PCB and memory cells. Because of this, you'll find an SSD emits less noise than a hard drive, uses less power, and produces no vibrations. A single drive doesn't seem to vibrate as much with its internal rotating platters, but add four or more drives into the mix and you'll compound the issue. NAS-rated drives are better suited for deployment as they have anti-vibration features to help mitigate, but they're nowhere near as good as an SSD.

3 Lower power draw

This point shouldn't play a major role in swaying your decision to SSDs for your NAS, but it's worth considering for long-term usage. Over time, the cost of running your NAS adds up and HDDs can consume a fair amount of electricity when data is being accessed or written. An SSD requires less power. With multiple drives installed inside the NAS system, this can add up over the course of a year. If you wish to lessen your environmental footprint and power grid draw, this is an easy way to slightly reduce your bill. It won't seem like much of a saving, but every little helps.

2 Less noise

Fans are loud and hard drives can be even louder, especially under heavier loads. Add more than one into the mix and you're on a course for an impulsive headphone purchase. An SSD, as you'd expect, is silent. The only noise that should emanate from your NAS is the cooling solution, unless you're not too fussed and/or the NAS is tucked away inside a cupboard or cabinet.

1 Longer lifespans

An SSD will typically last longer than mechanical drives due to having no moving parts. Not only do the platters need to spin with a motor, but the arm that moves the head across the plates is yet another point of failure. An SSD does not have one moving part, instead relying on chips and other components on the PCB. While SSDs have a finite number of writes, you won't have any problems with longevity so long as you're not writing TBs of data to the drive daily.

Choosing the best NAS SSD

Picking the best SSD for your NAS should factor in price as you'll likely be storing a lot of data. The interface is also vital since we need the SSD to be compatible with your device. Check which ports you have available on the NAS. 2.5-inch SSDs will use SATA III ports and should be compatible with your 3.5-inch drive bays. M.2 2280 NVMe SSDs will require an available M.2 slot on the motherboard. Not all NAS enclosures have such a slot so check your specifications sheet before purchasing. "Normal" SSDs you'd buy for a desktop or laptop PC will work inside a NAS though your mileage may vary on endurance.