HDD Clusteres

[Neptune24]

Hi guys, I was nosing about in some files, programs and stuff and I came across something about HDD cluster sizes. Basically I was just wondering if it was worth while changing the sizes or leave with what it's set to??

Neptune24

[kenc51]

The default cluster size is fine for 99% of users.

If you were using a dedicated HDD(s) or RAID array for storage, then it can be sometimes useful to change.
Larger cluster sizes work best if the drive is storing only large files.
Most of the frequently accessed files on users pc's are a combination of small and large'ish files, so the default cluster size is best.

If you have a second HDD you can play around with different sizes, then testing with "ATTO" to see which gives best performance.
In most cases, large clusters is best for sustained read / write performance but your partition will end up smaller.

Ken

[Major_A]

The only time I've changed the cluster size on a single drive was my recording drive for my HTPC. No file on that drive is under 500MB so the larger the cluster the less chance of fragmentation. If you are running the drive with an OS or other apps on it then just leave it where the OS puts it. If there is a speed difference you would never notice it in a day to day application.

[Neptune24]

OK so it seems that just leaving it is fine. However, I have music and photos on one of the drives, which has a 4KB cluster size. Would that be worth changing??

Neptune24

[Major_A]

I'd just leave it. If you're running Windows even 7's partition system doesn't allow for a lot of cluster size changes. If memory serves me correctly the larger the cluster size the less usable space on the drive too.

Bottom line: I'd just leave it where Windows puts it.

[Neptune24]

OK cool it shall be left alone

Neptune24