But like other computer devices, they offer a limited lifespan.
Well then, a question comes: how long do hard drives last?
HDD Lifespan
You should know that an HDD has moving parts.

So, how long do HDDs last?
Generally speaking, HDDs can last from 3 to 5 years.
But this percentage varies from disk brands.
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Then, a question comes: how long does a hard drive last if not used?
To ensure a longer lifespan for your hard drive, you shouldnt use it too frequently.
That is, not using an HDD is helpful to guarantee longevity.

A hard drive with high quality can last 10 years if unused, even longer.
Since an SSD doesnt have moving parts, it can last from 5 to 10 years.
But you should know an SSD has limited read/write cycles.

That is, the more you use it, the shorter it will last.
SSD VS HDD Lifespan
Now you clearly learn the lifespan of an HDD and SSD.
By contrast, SSDs have a longer lifespan than HDDs since they dont have moving parts.
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While HDDs have moving parts and they can wear out over time, having an influence on the lifespan.
Besides, SSDs dont need defragmentation but HDDs require, which could help extend the lifespan.
If you are seeking a computer storage gadget, an SSD can be a good option.

Now, lets see some tips and tricks.
This post talks about the external hard drive lifespan and how to prolong it.
Moreover, it also discusses what to do if the drive fails.
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Just gently remove any dust from the surface of your hard drive using a soft and dry cloth.
In addition to the disk, you should also clean other components of your setup.
Ground Your System Properly
Computer peripherals and internals are sensitive to static electricity.

Usually, this common situation happens when the power socket is not properly grounded.
Thus, check that to ground your system properly to extend HDD lifespan.
Besides, you should avoid touching your PC hardware like the hard drive with bare hands.
If needed, use a grounding bracelet before touching any hardware.
Ensure a Stable Power Supply
A stable power supply plays an important role in hard drive health.
so you can let your hard drive have a long lifespan, use anuninterruptible power supply(UPS).
This can help with voltage stability and block any unwanted voltage fluctuations.
Avoid Physical Shock
A hard drive is easy to encounter a physical shock, causing disk damage.
Dont Let Your HDD Overheated
One of the worst enemies of hard drives is overheating.
If your HDD is prolonged exposure to high temperatures, the HDD lifespan will be influenced.
Thus, you should take measures to prevent overheating.
If possible, put your box in a cool and temperature-controlled environment or use a cooler.
Defragment Regularly
A regular hard drive defrag is a good tip for prolonging its life.
Step 2: Under theToolstab, clickOptimizefrom theOptimize and defragment drivesection.
Step 3: Choose the drive you want to defragment and clickOptimize.
How can you defrag Windows 11 hard drive to improve the PC performance?
This post shows you 3 ways to defrag your Windows 11 PC.
Thus, you’re free to choose to discard these temporary files to increase HDD lifespan.
One of the best ways to delete temporary files is using the cleanup tool Disk Cleanup in Windows 10/11.
Step 2: ClickDisk CleanupunderGeneral.
Step 3: opt for checkbox of items to delete and clickOK > Delete Files.
If you better delete system files, tap onClean up system filesto continue.
(5 Ways).
Or you’ve got the option to use the professional PC cleaner MiniTool System Booster toclear junk files.
These are common tips and tricks to increase lifespan of an HDD.
If you want to use your hard drive for a long time, follow these tips.
One way you should do is creating regular backups for disk data.
With it, you might easilybackup files, folders, Windows, disks, and selected partitions.
Besides, you could create incremental or differential backups toonly back up newly added or changed files.
Now, dont hesitate to download MiniTool ShadowMaker and install it for free use within 30 days.
Step 3: Tap onDESTINATIONto choose a drive to store the backup.
Want to create automatic file backups in Windows 10/11?
This post shows you how to automatically back up files to an external hard drive with ease.
Step 4: Finally, clickBack Up Nowto start the full backup.
At the configured time point, MiniTool ShadowMaker will automatically back up your data.
If you dont knowhow to clone a hard drive, choose the given link.
The most important thing is to rescue your files.
you’re able to also run MiniTool ShadowMaker to get some data back via its Backup feature.
Bottom Line
What is the average hard drive lifespan?
How to increase hard drive life?
it’s possible for you to learn much from this post.
And you might extend lifespan of an HDD via some tips and tricks.
Hope this post can help you a lot.