Solid State Drives (SSDs) and Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) are two main types of storage devices used in computers. HDDs, the older technology, store data on rotating disks called platters, which are read by a moving mechanical arm. SSDs, on the other hand, store data on interconnected flash-memory chips that retain data even when there’s no power.
We earlier discussed whether SSD can improve the FPS in Windows while playing a game. In this article, we will discuss how it impacts the BDO game in SSD vs HDD.
Due to the mechanical components’ absence, SSDs generally have faster read/write speeds than HDDs, resulting in reduced latency. They also have a higher level of reliability since they are less prone to physical damage, although they can still wear out over time due to write operations.
Technical Specifications and Benchmarks: SSDs vs HDDs in BDO
Let’s delve into specific technical specifications and benchmarks to see how SSDs and HDDs differ when playing Black Desert Online (BDO). In tests, SSDs typically demonstrate significantly faster load times for games, which means you can start playing more quickly. For example, an SSD might load BDO in less than 20 seconds, while an HDD could take upwards of a minute for the same task.
Moreover, the faster data transfer rates of SSDs allow for smoother in-game experiences, such as swiftly loading textures, reducing pop-in, and handling data-intensive tasks like quicksaving or auto-saving.
The difference is often most noticeable in expansive MMORPGs like BDO, where players frequently encounter a variety of detailed environments and complex game mechanics.
Practical Implications: How SSDs and HDDs Affect Gameplay
In practical terms, these technical differences can greatly influence your gaming experience. Faster loading times with SSDs translate to less waiting when starting the game or loading new areas. It also means quicker response times when retrieving game data, which can be critical in fast-paced action combat, a BDO staple.
Graphics rendering, especially in an MMORPG with a detailed world like BDO, is another area where SSDs shine. By quickly fetching and loading high-resolution textures and assets, SSDs enable more consistent, immersive visuals.
Since even recent operating systems like Windows 11 and 10 require higher input/output (I/O) on disk for normal usage, if you need to play games on top of it, it can increase further.
We highly recommend changing to SSD from HDD to get better performance from the existing computer while playing BDO or any other computer games.
User Experiences: BDO on SSDs and HDDs
Player testimonials corroborate the technical advantages of SSDs. Many BDO players reported smoother gameplay, faster loading times, and improved graphical rendering when they switched from an HDD to an SSD.
On the flip side, some players using HDDs have mentioned issues such as lag during high-action sequences and textures loading slowly or appearing blurry, issues that were largely resolved when moving to an SSD.
Transferring BDO from an HDD to an SSD
To transfer BDO from an HDD to an SSD without losing game progress, follow these steps:
- Ensure the SSD is properly installed and recognized by your system.
- Copy (don’t cut) the entire BDO folder from the HDD to the SSD. This usually includes game files and user settings.
- Update the game launcher to point to the new location on the SSD. In the BDO launcher, go to Settings and update the directory path.
- Run the game from the new location on the SSD. Your progress should be intact since all the game data has been transferred.
Always remember to keep a backup of your game files until you’ve confirmed that the game runs smoothly from the SSD.
SSDs and HDDs in Other MMORPGs
This comparison is not unique to BDO. Other popular MMORPGs, such as World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy XIV, and The Elder Scrolls Online also benefit significantly from being installed on an SSD. Players commonly report improved load times, better in-game performance, and overall improved gameplay experience when switching to SSDs.
Our Recommendation
While an HDD can still run Black Desert Online and similar MMORPGs, the benefits of using an SSD are clear, both from a technical standpoint and in terms of player experience. The reduced loading times, improved graphics rendering, and smoother gameplay offer a more immersive and enjoyable gaming experience.
However, it’s important to also consider cost-effectiveness. SSDs are more expensive than HDDs in terms of cost per GB. While the prices of SSDs have been decreasing over time, for gamers on a budget, an HDD may still be a more cost-effective choice, especially if they need a large amount of storage space.
The improved gaming experience offered by SSDs is highly recommended for those who can afford the upgrade. If you’re a BDO player or thinking of becoming one, an SSD will significantly impact your gameplay. For those with budget constraints, an HDD can still serve you adequately but do consider upgrading to an SSD when possible.
The final choice depends on your individual circumstances, including your budget, how much you value game performance, and the specific requirements of the games you play. However, as games become increasingly data-intensive and demanding, the move towards SSDs seems to be the inevitable trend in gaming.
