Windows 10 with limited SSD storage space
Windows 10 with limited SSD storage space
It seems like a good plan. I'll look for options that match your needs, even opting for higher capacity or switching to SSHD if it fits Windows 10. If that doesn't work, I'll think about replacing the 4-year-old notebook.
I don't really like the sshd concept. It's still a small SSD with a built-in hard drive, which creates problems. Since it's a laptop, having an SSD only helps with weight and power use, but movement can harm the hard drive. Laptops are prone to damage from shaking or dropping, which can affect those disks.
Skip the SSHD, you're losing your investment. Invest in a budget SSD with cache memory (DRAM). You can find 128 and even 256 GB options at a very reasonable price right now. A budget brand is ideal since: You're not focused on speed—any model will suffice. I question whether you'll use the laptop for more than five years, let alone three. Even if you had to replace it due to data corruption, longevity won't be a problem. Your device likely isn't a mission-critical tool where SSD reliability needs to be top-notch to avoid manufacturing defects. Look at the reviews, but it shouldn't be expensive.