Best Hybrid Hard Drive For Laptop

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By Pick Laptop Staff

Last modified on November 5, 2021

Despite having a massive competition among the manufacturers, SSDs are still costly. For taking advantage of bigger capacity and faster speed on laptops, hybrid storage is the best option. However, they are a bit pricey than the traditional HDDs but a far cheaper than the latest SSDs. In this post, we are going to talk about the best laptops with hybrid hard drives and SSHDs.

best laptops with hybrid hard drives in 2021

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There are two options for setting up hybrid storage on laptops; if you read this article, you'll get all the answers to your questions.

So, let's get started!

Also read: best laptops with IPS screen

Best Laptops with Hybrid Storage in 2021

Why do we need hybrid storage on our laptops?

Cost-effectiveness is the primary advantage of having a laptop with hybrid storage. You don't need to invest in the high-capacity SSD, and you can take benefit of speed and storage on a budget.

As I said above, there are two ways that we can implement hybrid storage on our laptop.

Using the SSHD
Manually (SSD + HDD)

So, let's talk about one by one to understand which circumstance we can use the SSHDs or (SSD + HDD).

1. Choosing a laptop with SSHD

Before discussing more, first, we need to know what an SSHD is.

SSHD is a hybrid hard drive comprises of the SSD and HDD technology. It means an SSHS is a large HDD that also has small SSD storage; therefore, you get ample storage along with faster speed. An SSHD automatically caches the frequent files that you used and stored them on the SSD portion of the drive. You don't have to manage what should and shouldn't on the SSD storage of SSHD. That's why; you won't even see the SSD portion of your SSHD on your laptop, which remains hidden.

As you can see, an SSHD is a single drive consists of an HDD and SSD technology which managed by the own firmware. If your laptop only has one hard disk slot, the SSHD would be the best choice for an upgrade.

However, if you want to speed up your old laptop speed, it doesn't solely depend on the storage technology, it might be the memory or processor.

Well, let's talk about the second option of setting up hybrid storage on laptops.

2. Manually setting up the hybrid storage

We can also make the hybrid storage by own using a small SSD drive along with a large HDD as per our requirements. This method is also cheaper than choosing a large SSD, but you'll need two hard disk slots in your laptop.

Usually, most of the laptop comes with a single hard drive slot, but there is a still way to cracking this equation. If your notebook has an optical drive option, then you can use a second storage drive at its place. There are some SATA optical bays available which allows using an SSD or HDD in the position of an optical drive slot.

Some general FAQs

Are hybrid hard drives good?

Hybrid hard drives are a combination of small SSD and large HDD storage. If you want a cost-efficient machine with higher performance, they might be a viable choice.

Which is better SSHD or HDD?

SSHD is better than an HDD; it can provide enhanced performance with caching technology.

Which storage is better SSD or HDD?

SSD works on the flash storage, and there is no moving part inside them. That's why SSDs are the best whether we talk about speed, reliability, power consumption, or weight.

Is a hybrid drive better than an SSD?

Nope, SSD storage is always a better choice over a hybrid hard drive. Since and SSHD has only a small part of SSD, and only works with caching. Without caching, an SSHD almost works as a traditional HDD.

What is a hybrid drive laptop?

If a notebook is using either SSD + HDD or an SSHD for storage, we can call it a hybrid drive laptop.

Is 2TB SSD worth it?

Unless you have a large budget, 2TB SSD isn't a viable choice; it's only available in premium laptops. That's why laptops with hybrid hard drives are always a great choice.

Are hybrid hard drives good for gaming?

According to several benchmarks and studies, a hybrid hard drive works pretty great with gaming. I would recommend the Seagate Firecuda SSHD for gaming.

What is 8GB SSHD?

The 8GB indicates the SSD capacity or SSHD, It will be utilized for caching through the software, and it'll provide better performance than a traditional HDD.

Does hard drive RPM matter?

Yes, it does, RPM defines how many times the platter of the hard drive is spinning within a minute. You should always choose the higher RPM to ensure better speed.

Is SSD faster than 7200rpm?

Of course, an SSD is a lot faster than even a 7200 RPM drive.

Now, let me show you some best laptops with hybrid storage in 2021. We will start with the budget machines and go up to high-end laptops; therefore, you can pick as per your requirements.

Best hybrid drives laptops at a glance

A12-9700P @3.4GHz processor
8GB memory, 1TB SSHD
15.6-inch, 1366 x 768
Windows 10

R5-3500U @3.7GHz processor
Radeon Vega 8 graphics
8GB memory, 128GB SSD + 1TB HDD
15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080
Windows 10 Home

i5-7300HQ @3.50Ghz processor
GTX 1050 4GB discrete GPU
8GB memory, 1TB SSHD
15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080
Windows 10

i5-8250U @3.4GHz CPU
Geforce 940MX 4GB GPU
8GB RAM, 1TB SSHD
15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080
8 hours 56 minutes
Windows 10 Home

i7-8750H @4.1GHz processor
GTX 1050Ti 4GB GPU
8GB memory, 128GB SSD + 1TB HDD
15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080
Windows 10 64bit

Powerful H series Intel Core i5-8300H processor
Dedicated GTX 1050Ti 4GB GPU
8GB memory
Intel Optane 16GB + 1TB

i7-8565U @ 4.6GHz CPU
GTX 1050 dedicated GPU 4GB vRAM
16GB memory, 256GB SSD+1TB
17.3-inch, 1920 x 1080
4.5-hours, Windows 10

i7-9750H @4.5GHz processor
GTX 1660 Ti 6GB discrete GPU
16GB memory, 256GB PCIe NVMe + Extra HD slot
15.6-inch 144Hz, 1920 x 1080
7-hours backup, Windows 10 Home

Best Laptops with Hybrid Storage in 2021 - Reviews

1. ASUS X555QA (Cheapest Laptop with Hybrid Hard Drive)

Processor: A12-9700P @3.4GHz | Memory: 8GB | Storage: 1TB SSHD | Screen: 15.6-inch 1366 x 768

If you're looking for a budget laptop for everyday use, the ASUS X555QA notebook with hybrid storage might be a viable choice. As this laptop is available with AMD and Intel processors, you can pick according to your needs. Even if you go with the Intel Core i5 model, it won't cost you that much.

ASUS X555QA is packed with a 15.6-inch HD screen; the image quality isn't imposing but justified for this low price.

When we talk about the performance, this hybrid notebook is ideal for mild to moderate works such as browsing, editing text, and watching movies.

Of course, it's a low-end laptop, and there is no dedicated GPU available; therefore, it's not ideal for heavy graphics.

PROS

Low price
Seagate FireCuda SSHD for better performance
Available with Intel and AMD processors
Many connectivity options

CONS

Average battery life
Not ideal for heavy work

2. Asus VivoBook 15 (Gorgeous AMD Laptop with Hybrid Storage)

Processor: R5-3500U @3.7GHz | Memory: 8GB | Storage: 128GB SSD + 1TB HDD | Screen: 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080

This beautiful laptop doesn't just look good but also provides robust performance. With the Quad-Core AMD processor, 8GB of memory, and hybrid storage, this notebook could be an excellent choice for students or office workers.

Aesthetically, this laptop looks very premium as it's offering NanoEdge bezel Display with a stunning 88% screen-to-body ratio. It's a full HD panel that can deliver crisp images.

If you compare this hybrid storage model with the Intel Core i5, and NVMe SSD variant, it's much better in price and performance, that's the actual benefit of SSD + HDD combination.

This AMD model of VivoBook is offering 128GB SSD for faster speed and 1TB HDD for storage. Moreover, for connectivity, there are several ports available along with the latest USB Type-C, and HDMI.

PROS

Stylus design with NanoEdge bezel
Lightweight and portable
Potent performance with the AMD processor, and hybrid storage
Extensive connectivity options
Available with several colors and configurations
Backlit keyboard with the fingerprint sensor

CONS

Not ideal for graphics-oriented programs

3. Dell Inspiron 15 7567 (Budget Gaming Laptop with Hard Drive)

Processor: i5-7300HQ @3.50Ghz | GPU: GTX 1050 4GB |Memory: 8GB |Storage: 1TB SSHD | Screen: 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080

Whether you're into graphics designing, video editing, or gaming, the Dell Inspiron 7567 could be a solid choice without spending tons of money. It's powered by the Intel Core i5-7300HQ processor, 8GB memory, and 1TB hybrid storage, which ensures seamless performance. Moreover, for graphics-heavy tasks, it's offering an NVidia GTX 1050 discrete GPU with the 4GB VRAM.

The price of this hybrid storage laptop is quite reasonable compared to its rivals, which is the primary reason behind its popularity.

The Inspiron 7567 is offering a 15.6-inch full HD IPS display with anti-glare technology, which ensures enhanced image quality.

Aesthetically, this laptop looks utterly a gaming rig; the red-backlit keyboard and stylish edges stand it apart from others.

The battery life of this laptop isn't very high; also, it's a bit cumbersome. However, that's not surprising for a gaming machine.

You can also check out the Dell G5587 G5 which is offering quite potent hardware along with the hybrid storage.

PROS

Brilliant performance with Intel i5 H series processor, and Nvidia graphics
Alluring gaming design with a red-backlit keyboard
Appealing price
Hybrid hard drive for speed and performance in budget

CONS

Poor battery life
Heavy

4. Dell Inspiron 15 7570 (Another Solid Laptop for Budget Price)

Processor: i5-8250U @3.4GHz | GPU: Geforce 940MX 4GB | Memory: 8GB |Storage: 1TB SSHD | Screen: 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080

If you don't like any bell and whistle design, you might love the Dell 7570 over the previous laptop. The Dell Inspiron 15 7570 is offering a professional and clean look, which would be suitable for office use as well.

As the Intel Core i5 processor powers it; therefore, it's offering a bit better battery life than the previous Dell gaming laptop. Don't worry; it's also offering a dedicated GPU if you're into graphics designing or 3d modeling, it won't let you down.

Besides the great processor, it's backed with 8GB memory along with the 1TB hybrid hard drive; therefore, it can handle multitasking effortlessly.

Inspiron 7570 is packed with a 15.6-inch full HD IPS panel with narrow borders. Along with the vivid and sharp picture quality, it looks so tempting.

The best thing, this dell notebook is offering the latest USB Type-C port; it's like a Swiss army knife; you can hook it up with an external monitor, storage drive, or power brick with the same cable.

The lightweight and premium aluminum design is another highlighted feature of this laptop; it provides rock-solid durability and remains remarkably light. That's why it becomes a perfect choice for on-the-go use. Additionally, this model has an incredible set of keyboard and touchpad; if you type a lot, it would be perfect.

PROS

Excellent performance with extended battery life
Dedicated Nvidia graphics card
The professional and tempting aluminum design
Sturdy and lightweight body
Latest USB Type-C with DisplayPort and charging support
Incredible keyboard and touchpad
Gorgeous full HD display with narrow bezel

CONS

Compact size keyboard might be annoying for some

5. Acer Aspire 7 (Robust Gaming Laptop with Both SSD and HDD)

Processor: i7-8750H @4.1GHz | GPU: GTX 1050Ti 4GB |Memory: 8GB |Storage: 128GB SSD + 1TB HDD | Screen: 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080

If you can afford a laptop above $600, the Acer Aspire 7 laptop can't be ignored. Along with the combination of SSD and HDD, this powerful machine is offering Intel Core i7-8750H processor, 8GB DDR4 memory, and Nvidia GTX 1050Ti GPU. This laptop can handle pretty intense processing and multitasking with the breeze.

The Aspire 7 is also offering a full HD 15.6-inch screen, which is ideal for gaming and other tasks as well. As it's an IPS panel with led backlit technology; therefore, the view angle and brightness is going to amaze you.

In the design department, Acer 7 doesn't have any unique feature; it's offering a standard thick and heavy body, as most of the gaming laptops provide. Moreover, you should expect a good battery life from this power-hungry machine.

The best thing about this machine is; you can upgrade it easily.

However, there is no compromise in the connectivity option; it's equipped with all standard ports, including HDMI, and USB Type-C. Yes, it also does have a fingerprint reader, which provides a secure login.

PROS

Compelling performance with 8th Gen Intel Core i7 processor
SSD + HDD combination for speed and storage
Vast connectivity options
A beautiful full HD display with IPS panel
Fingerprint reader
Easy to upgrade options

CONS

Thick and heavy
Inferior battery life

6. MSI GV62 8RD-200 (Best Gaming Laptop with Intel Optane Memory)

Processor: i5-8300H @4.0GHz | GPU: GTX 1050Ti 4GB | Memory: 8GB | Storage: Intel Optane 16GB + 1TB | Screen: 15.5-inch 2560×1600

Intel Optane memory is insanely faster, and it's another excellent choice for hybrid storage. A small amount of Intel Optane memory can dramatically boost the system performance.

The MSI GV62 is a mid-range gaming laptop, which is taking advantage of this technology for making itself cost-effective. This laptop is available with Intel Core i5 and Core i7 H series power processors along with up to 16GB of memory.

This model is offering Nvidia GTX 1050Ti dedicated graphics, which can handle most of the games or designing work. However, if you need something more powerful, you can also go with the RTX2060 model.

As a gaming laptop, it's featuring a red-backlit keyboard, 7.1 enhanced Nahimic 3 audio, and dual fan mechanism for efficient cooling. Keep in mind, it's a heavy laptop, and battery life is also average.

When we talk about the screen, which is also a 15.6-inch full HD panel, but the quality is awe-inspiring.

If you're looking for a mid-range or premium laptop for gaming with hybrid hard drives, the MSI might be the best bet as it's available with different configurations.

PROS

Robust gaming design with dual fan mechanism
Red-backlit keyboard
Available with several configurations
Impressive gaming screen with full HD resolution
Surround sound quality
Rock-solid build quality

CONS

Battery life isn't favorable
Not ideal for on-the-use

7. ASUS VivoBook Pro 17 (Giant and Thin Laptop with Hybrid Storage)

Processor: i7-8565U @ 4.6GHz | GPU: GTX 1050 4GB | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 256GB SSD+1TB | Screen: 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080

If you need a large laptop for handling multiple windows or immersive gaming, Asus VivoBook Pro 17 might be a perfect choice. The best thing about this laptop is, despite being a giant size, it's quite compact and lightweight, and you can carry it anywhere.

Under the hood, it's offering an Intel Core i7 processor with the 16 GB of large memory, 256GB SSD + 1TB hybrid storage, and Nvidia GTX 1050 discrete GPU. It's a complete package for performance and portability; whether you're into editing, designing, or gaming, it would be proved as a good machine.

As I already said about the design, it's a quite portable laptop with just having a 0.8-inch thickness and 4.6 lbs weight.

The VivoBook series doesn't lack connectivity options. Along with all usual ports, this model has a USB Type-C port as well, which allow 4K display output, and faster data transfer speed.

Besides vast I/O options, you're getting fingerprint reader and backlit keyboard, which also comes in handy sometimes.

The VivoBook is featuring a fast charging feature with a long-lasting lithium polymer battery, which can charge up to 60% within 49 minutes.

However, most of the people don't rely on the laptop's speakers and use external headphones or other devices, but this notebook is offering excellent sound quality with SonicMaster technology.

In the display departments, this 17-inch machine is equipped with the full HD resolution and 72% NTSC color gamut, which can deliver a crisp and vivid image quality.

PROS

Large immersive screen with brilliant colors and sharpness
A dominant performance with Intel Core i7, 16GB memory, and hybrid storage
Robust Nvidia discrete graphics
Impressive battery life, and fast charging technology
Backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader
Slim and lightweight considering the large size

CONS

The fan might produce some noise during higher processing

8. Acer Predator Helios 300 (Overall Best Gaming Laptop with Hybrid Storage)

Processor: i7-9750H @4.5GHz | GPU: GTX 1660 Ti 6GB | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 256GB PCIe NVMe + Extra slot | Screen: 15.6-inch, 144Hz, 1920 x 1080

The previous version of Helios 300 was already quite amazing, and this latest model is even offering more excellent features. It's one of the most powerful gaming laptops for a $1000 price range, which has been liked by many professional gamers.

The Helios 300 is an Intel i7-9750H powered machine, which is paired with 16GB of memory, and the latest GTX 1660Ti Nvidia GPU. Doesn't matter which type of games or application you through at it, it can handle them nicely.

It's offering a 256GB PCIe SSD storage, and there is an extra slot available for a hard drive for making a hybrid combination. Moreover, there is one extra slot for PCIe upgrade is given.

Compared to the previous model, the latest model has a far better display quality. It comes with the 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms of quicker response time, which is excellent for gaming or other tasks. Furthermore, it's an IPS panel; therefore, the view angles and color accuracy are also terrific.

With the latest 4th Gen dual Aeroblade 3D Fan of Acer, the Helios 300 has +45% better airflow, which ensures consistent performance even in intense processing.

There is no compromise in the connectivity as well; you're getting almost all I/O ports that you need.

PROS

Top-notch performance
Splendid gaming design with an efficient cooling mechanism
Highly responsive, brighter, and vivid display
Extra slots for HDD and PCIe for the future upgrades
Pervasive connectivity options
Impressive price for the features

CONS

Heavy, not ideal for carrying

Best Laptops with Hybrid Hard Drives in 2021

As you're looking for a laptop with a hybrid hard drive; therefore, one thing is sure, you don't care much about portability. It's very evident for SSHD or SSD + HDD combination; the laptop isn't going to be lightweight.

Outside of this list, there are many laptops available which are offering hybrid storage. However, I have tried to include some best and reliable laptops with SSD + HDD and SSHD, and I hope you don't need to go elsewhere. I have also included some reputed budget laptops in this list above, and you know there is no upper range.

The most expensive laptop of this list is Acer Predator Helios 300, which costs approximately $1000, but if you can spend even more, you can check out ASUS ROG Strix or ASUS ROG GL752VW as well.

ASUS X555QA
Asus VivoBook 15
Dell Inspiron 15 7567
Dell Inspiron 15 7570
Acer Aspire 7
MSI GV62 8RD-200
ASUS VivoBook Pro 17
Acer Predator Helios 300

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