Inexpensive but reasonably performing memory for Windows 10 image?

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  1. Posts : 366
    Windows 10 v. 21H1, Build 19043.1348
       #1

    Inexpensive but reasonably performing memory for Windows 10 image?


    With a glut of memory options out there now, the choice is overwhelming... but no complaints, because it seems there's tremendous flexibility to suit many needs. Probably the most economical way to keep a Windows backup is to use an external HDD, especially considering prices. Let's say you've got that already, but want to have a secondary backup, a small and portable way to restore your Windows operating system using a USB connected data source.

    So as I see it, there are several USB based options:
    • Dedicated USB flash memory drive
    • SD or Micro SD card using USB adapter
    • SSD connected via USB


    I'd consider the read speed to be the most important factor, as the data will be transferred from the USB data source to the computer's main drive (SSD or HDD). SD or Micro SD generally has slower read speeds than USB drives and $1/Gb is usually higher than USB... but they're more flexible (you can re-purpose for use in portable devices such as phones/cameras). And since data restore is usually not a common need, the source doesn't need to provide the fastest read speeds. There's probably a "sweet spot" on the read speed + total memory size to price ratio.

    All in all, my guess is that for the purposes of backup/restore of Windows, it's probably best to go with a reputable USB flash memory drive. From what I've read, compatibility is inherently better with USB drives vs. SD cards (which can be a problem if you don't have Internet access to get the latest driver). It'll be faster than the equivalent priced SD card and its "hand friendly" form factor means you'll have less chance of losing it. Does that seem to be a fair assessment?
      My Computers


  2. Posts : 30,117
    Windows 11 Pro x64 Version 23H2
       #2

    My two cents.

    You say speed is the most important.

    If I was into my secondary backup my most important criteria would be reliability. I would go with spinner. Cheap, reliable and you can carry a couple of versions. Like the one you took right after installing everything and then the one that was from a six months ago and .....


    Ken
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 30,524
    Windows 10 (Pro and Insider Pro)
       #3

    SSDs are getting cheap this days. You can get ready made external USB (like WD), or make your own. Larger 2.5 inch or even smaller m.2 form. Much faster than USB sticks, and not so much more expensive (USB sticks are getting even lower prices)

    250 GB for 60, and 500 GB for 100$ approx. Fast, compatible and reliable.

    WD 512 on Amazon
      My Computers


  4. Posts : 366
    Windows 10 v. 21H1, Build 19043.1348
    Thread Starter
       #4

    Caledon Ken said:
    My two cents.
    You say speed is the most important.
    If I was into my secondary backup my most important criteria would be reliability. I would go with spinner. Cheap, reliable and you can carry a couple of versions. Like the one you took right after installing everything and then the one that was from a six months ago and .....
    Ken
    Thanks for weighing in, Ken. As a secondary backup, it would also need to be easily portable... so not sure a spinner would be a good way to go (weight & size). Perhaps speed shouldn't be a big concern? 20 mins vs. 45 mins could be a wash, when all things are considered.
      My Computers


  5. Posts : 366
    Windows 10 v. 21H1, Build 19043.1348
    Thread Starter
       #5

    AndreTen said:
    SSDs are getting cheap this days. You can get ready made external USB (like WD), or make your own. Larger 2.5 inch or even smaller m.2 form. Much faster than USB sticks, and not so much more expensive (USB sticks are getting even lower prices)
    250 GB for 60, and 500 GB for 100$ approx. Fast, compatible and reliable.
    WD 512 on Amazon
    Yes, SSD's are astonishingly cheap now. I just picked up a 1Tb one for $199. 250Gb for $60? That's remarkable. Now I'm thinking that taking one, sticking it in a slim housing with USB 3.x cable, and that may be a better choice than a 128Gb USB drive.
      My Computers


  6. Posts : 30,117
    Windows 11 Pro x64 Version 23H2
       #6

    You could buy a 2.5" disk and a cable to connect. Fits in jacket pocket.

    or buy pre assembled unit. (I don't recommend, they seem unreliable.
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 366
    Windows 10 v. 21H1, Build 19043.1348
    Thread Starter
       #7

    Caledon Ken said:
    You could buy a 2.5" disk and a cable to connect. Fits in jacket pocket.
    or buy pre assembled unit. (I don't recommend, they seem unreliable.
    I just discovered Kingston A400 240Gb SSD is now under $60, which seems infinitely more reasonable than a USB drive. The A400 has a nice finished case too, so I don't even see the need for an enclosure.
      My Computers


  8. Posts : 30,117
    Windows 11 Pro x64 Version 23H2
       #8

    Nice.

    SSD's are, in my opinion more sensitive to static.

    Nice find.

    Quick cable to connect and you're done
      My Computer


  9. Posts : 366
    Windows 10 v. 21H1, Build 19043.1348
    Thread Starter
       #9

    Caledon Ken said:
    Nice.
    SSD's are, in my opinion more sensitive to static.
    Nice find.
    Quick cable to connect and you're done
    Since SSD's really don't generate much heat, I suppose a sized anti-static bag might be worthwhile?
      My Computers


  10. Posts : 30,117
    Windows 11 Pro x64 Version 23H2
       #10

    If this is your last line of defense before clean install yes.

    Especially if you are going to travel with it. Come winter some places are static bombs.
      My Computer


 

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