By 2023, Microsoft may require solid-state drives (SSDs) in all Windows 11 PCs. Tom’s Hardware reports that the Redmond-based software behemoth is pushing PC makers to switch from HDDs to SSDs.
Though many new computers include solid-state drives (SSDs), hard disc drives (HDDs) will likely remain popular for the foreseeable future. One reason OEMs have been able to sell inexpensive PCs is because HDDs are less expensive than SSDs.
Some pricier computers use a hybrid storage solution that combines solid-state drives (SSDs) and hard disc drives (HDDs); the former is designed to boost system performance, while the latter is used to store data. As it turns out, Microsoft is also not fond of them.
According to the article, Microsoft intended to make SSDs mandatory for Windows 11 last year, but the company ultimately decided to delay the need until the second half of 2023.
In that case, companies that make personal computers, such as Asus, Acer, Dell, HP, Lenovo, MSI, and Samsung, will have to stop making portable computers and laptops with hard disc drives (HDDs). Because SSDs are so costly, this could result in higher prices for desktop and portable computer hardware.
Here, eMMC storage—typically available in budget PCs—might be your only option. Since eMMC currently provides no performance improvements to Windows 11, this is clearly intended for storage. A computer with both solid-state drive and embedded multi-media card storage is quick and relatively inexpensive.
High-end computers and laptops will still rely on SSDs, though, driving up prices even further. One of the reasons for the lightning-fast performance of Apple‘s macOS laptops is that they employ a single storage system across the board. Microsoft could be trying to catch up to Apple by insisting that all OEMs switch to SSDs.
When compared to Apple, Microsoft licenses Windows to third-party manufacturers, yet the latter’s hardware decisions limit the capabilities of Windows 11, Microsoft’s supposedly most powerful PC operating system to date. Windows 11 PCs will eventually catch up to Macs thanks to stricter hardware requirements, but this shift will have an effect on users. On-air right this minute
