June 1, 20224 yr SMR versus CMR drive for cache? Desktop/laptop class versus NAS class for cache? The #1 reason why I am considering a desktop/laptop SMR drive is because I can get it in 2.5" size, and I don't have enough 3.5" bays available. I have a SSD drive for dockers/VM's. But I don't want to wear out the SSD drive just to temporarily cache data before moving to the protected array. I also use the drive for downloading torrents, which do frequent tiny read/writes and don't want to wear out a SSD. The drive's speed only needs to be as fast as my 1G network; I don't need the speed when data is moved to the array. SMR +++ 2.5" drive slot + More load/unload cycles + Quieter ++ Less heat = last longer (but over lapping might mean it doesn't last as long) + Cheaper (but not by that much on small drive) +- Slower (but fast enough) The one problem SMR might have is filling up the drive's cache and multiple read/writes on pre-written files (over lapping?). However, I don't expect the unraid cache drive to fill up since data is moved to the array nightly, so not sure if over lapping will be an issue. The next concern I have is that 2.5" SMR drives are considered "desktop" class, and that could mean they aren't meant to operate 24x7 in a home NAS, and there could be load/unload cycle issues. My use is a home media NAS, which isn't a "deskop" and not "enterprise 24x7". Thoughts?
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