External ssds vs internal ssds which is faster

Both external and internal SSDs can be fast, but the performance difference depends on several factors. Here's a breakdown:

Internal SSDs:

Pros:

1. Direct connection: Internal SSDs connect directly to the motherboard, reducing latency and increasing data transfer speeds.
2. Lower latency: Since internal SSDs are physically closer to the CPU and memory, they can access data faster.
3. Better compatibility: Internal SSDs are designed to work seamlessly with the system's hardware and software.

Cons:

1. Limited upgradeability: Once an internal SSD is installed, it can be difficult to upgrade or replace without opening up the system.
2. Space constraints: Internal SSDs take up space inside the system, which can be a concern for compact or miniaturized systems.

External SSDs:

Pros:

1. Easy upgradeability: External SSDs can be easily swapped out or upgraded without opening up the system.
2. Portability: External SSDs are designed to be portable, making them ideal for laptops, tablets, or other mobile devices.
3. Flexibility: External SSDs can be used with multiple systems, as long as they have a compatible interface (e.g., USB, Thunderbolt).

Cons:

1. Latency: External SSDs may introduce additional latency due to the need to transmit data through the interface (e.g., USB, Thunderbolt).
2. Speed limitations: External SSDs may be limited by the speed of the interface they use, which can impact performance.

Performance Comparison:

In general, internal SSDs tend to outperform external SSDs in terms of raw speed. However, the difference is often minimal, and external SSDs can still provide excellent performance.

Here are some approximate sequential read and write speeds for internal and external SSDs:

• Internal SSDs:
  • SATA III: up to 600 MB/s read, 500 MB/s write
  • PCIe NVMe: up to 3,500 MB/s read, 2,500 MB/s write
• External SSDs:
  • USB 3.0: up to 300 MB/s read, 200 MB/s write
  • Thunderbolt 3: up to 2,000 MB/s read, 1,500 MB/s write

Conclusion:

Internal SSDs generally offer better performance due to their direct connection to the system's hardware. However, external SSDs can still provide excellent performance, especially if you're using a high-speed interface like Thunderbolt 3.

If you prioritize raw speed and don't need the flexibility of an external SSD, an internal SSD might be the better choice. If you need a portable, easy-to-upgrade storage solution, an external SSD could be the way to go.

Remember to consider factors like interface speed, capacity, and compatibility when choosing between internal and external SSDs.