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#401
The unallocated partition is there just to make sure you don't fill your disk to the point where the SSDs controller cannot move files around for garbage collection and trim.
Think of it like you have to leave space on a HDD so it can defragment(files need to be moved too).
On an SSD the partitions are not physical like an HDD, The OS has no idea where the files are(which NAND cells or blocks),
because the controller lies to the OS, and say's Yup they're where you think they are,
like when your bartender say's "haven't seen him" when she calls the pub looking for you. Only the SSDs controller knows where everything is. So a partition on an SSD is virtual.
So to be correct Cliff I should unallocated a 20 gig area when I install the SSD? Thanks for taking time guys on answering my questions.
My Magician shows the following , my SSD doesn't grow in size as i have never had the SSD get bigger and bigger as i don't download stuff .
I suppose updates will increase it's size but other than that it is always around the same size.
Do you need to make a separate partition to allocate extra space for modern SSD's?
No, that will just wear the drive faster in the part that you use and leave part untouched and unusable. The drive does its own leveling, don't try to do it manually or you will undermine the protection of the drive.if you have a SATA SSD with an OS that supports TRIM (SCSI UNMAP for SAS drives) or that comes with a tool such as Samsung Magician or others that are available, simple answer is no, go for a regular full sized partition and you will be fine.
Indeed it does Mike , seems everybody has a very different opinion on this , even asked on "AnandTech" and everyone has different opinions as well .
Seems it's much more important if you fill your SSD who knows.