Difference between suspend and hibernate in windows

For Windows users, when we turn off the computer, we get a couple of additional options next to it. We also have the option to hibernate or suspend. They are options that are used when we do not want to turn off the computer. So options like hibernation or sleep are much more comfortable to use. But what do they really consist of?

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What is the difference between hibernate and suspend?

The purpose of both is the same: to preserve the current state and save energy. A very common mistake among users is to think that shutdown is the best way to save energy. Although that is not the case. These two modes mean greater energy savings. But another common situation is that many think that suspend or hibernate are the same.

Although the purpose of both is the same, there are certain differences. There are two modes that we can use when we are going to be away from the computer for a while. But, we want to go back to work where we left off when we left. So these modes are very convenient. Although they have many things in common, they are not the same. With that in mind, we explain the difference between the two below.

Hibernate vs Suspend

When we suspend our computer, the equipment enters a mode of minimum energy consumption. Only enough power is needed to keep the RAM on. It is in RAM memory where the current state of the system is stored. So when you go back and use the computer, everything will be the same as when you left it. The power consumption is so low that in some laptop models you can leave it for more than a day in this mode without barely draining the battery.

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If what we do is hibernate (hibernate mode) something very similar happens. But there is a clear difference. In this case, instead of storing the current state of the computer in RAM, it does so on the hard disk or solid storage. This assumes that the energy consumption becomes zero in this case. If your computer is hibernating it is as if it was turned off. It will not consume any energy. This is because you don't need to keep any components on. So it does not consume energy.

What hibernate mode does consume is disk space. The Windows hibernation file takes up space. In fact, it can occupy a few gigabytes. Therefore, when you wake up the computer from a hibernation process, it can start slower than when we wake it up after a suspension. Although it depends on the speed of your disk.

Therefore, we can see that the difference is not very great between both modes. Although it is a very clear difference.

Which one is better for us to use? Which is better?

Once we have known precisely what both modes consist of, the usual thing is that a question of the style arises. We wonder what is best for us in this case. Not surprisingly, the choice between suspend and hibernate depends on a number of factors. So each case may be unique in the end.

The main question we have to ask ourselves is how long are we going to be without using the computer. It is a very fast way to determine whether to hibernate or suspend. If we are going to be a short time without using the computer, then it is better for us to suspend. Mainly because the start may be faster. Also because consumption will be minimal, so it is not a concern. But if we are going to spend a longer time without using it (think about a few hours), then it is more convenient for us to hibernate. Suspend will allow us to boot faster than if we send our computer to hibernate mode.

It also depends on the type of computer we are using. On a desktop it really doesn't matter too much. But in the case of a laptop it is decisive. Since in suspension there will still be a power consumption (minimum, although existing). Something that does not happen if we hibernate. So it is also an aspect that we must take into account when choosing one or the other mode.

The storage space we have also influences this decision. If we have little storage space, the option to hibernate may not be the most convenient for us. Since space consumption can skyrocket in some cases. In the event that it is not an impediment, then we do not care which one to use.

As you can see, there are notable differences between hibernate and suspend. There is none that is better. Your choice depends on the needs of the user. So depending on each situation and your computer, one of the two options will be much more convenient. Which of these options do you use the most? Hibernate or suspend?