RAID 0 VS RAID 1: An In-Depth Comparison
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RAID 0 VS RAID 1: An In-Depth Comparison
The difference between RAID 0 vs RAID 1 is in the technology they use. RAID 0 uses disk striping while RAID 1 uses disk mirroring. This means that RAID 0 splits information into data blocks and writes them across all drives in the array.
While RAID 1 stores the data blocks twice by writing them on two drives. Both RAID 0 and RAID 1 require at least two drives to set up the array.
Another difference between RAID 0 vs RAID 1 is in data access and data availability. RAID 0 recovery of data is excellent because it focuses on data accessing speed. RAID 1 meanwhile, focuses on data availability.
RAID 0 is ideal for storage systems used for non-critical operations. It is best for photo or video editing where READ and WRITE functions are at a high-speed level.
Let’s discuss more RAID 0 vs RAID 1 comparisons to get a better idea of both RAID levels. This is an in-depth discussion about RAID 0 vs RAID 1. We hope this will help you choose the best RAID setup for you or your business or personal needs.
What is the Difference Between RAID 0 vs RAID 1?

- Technology:
RAID 0 uses stripping while RAID 1 uses mirroring technology. - Cost:
RAID 0 is very affordable to set up while RAID 1 is quite expensive. - WRITE Penalty and Performance:
RAID 0 vs RAID 1 – RAID 0 has no WRITE penalty while RAID 1 has a WRITE penalty. RAID 0 has better WRITE performance than RAID 0 - Storage Efficiency:
RAID 0 storage efficiency is 100% while RAID 1 is 50%. RAID 1’s storage efficiency is because of its mirroring technology. It uses two drives for one data block. - READ Performance:
RAID 0 offers an excellent READ performance while it is only moderate in RAID 1.
RAID 0 vs RAID 1, Which is Better?
When deciding between RAID 0 vs RAID 1, you should consider what your needs are. RAID 0, for example, is better than RAID 1 when it comes to speed and storage efficiency. But it is only recommended for non-critical use because it has no fault tolerance.
Once a single drive fails, you experience a loss of data across the entire array. But, RAID 0 is the cheaper option.
RAID 1 array is better than RAID 0 if you need your data storage system for critical operations. If you cannot afford to lose important data, RAID 1 is the best option. It is, however, costly to set up and does not perform as fast as RAID 0.
One can be better than the other depending on the main purpose of the array.
Can RAID 0 be Recovered?
RAID 0 recovery of data can be tricky. RAID 0 has no fault tolerance because the data sectors are divided between all drives in the system. That means if one disk fails in a RAID 0, your data may be lost forever. If you do experience a RAID 0 failure, your best chance of salvaging the data is to seek out a data recovery professional.
The chances of data loss is very high with RAID 0. It is not the most reliable data storage system for mission-critical data.
Can RAID 1 be used in Data Backup?
Although RAID 1 offers redundancy, it is not a substitute for backup. Before you set up your RAID 1 array, make sure you backup all data, especially the data you will transfer into the RAID 1 array. Even as you go along using RAID 1, keep a consistent backup of important files.
RAID 0 vs RAID 1, When should I use RAID 1?
RAID 1 is a simple technology and is ideal for mission-critical operations, such as accounting, payroll and financial systems, and other important information where data loss can be catastrophic. It is suitable for small servers that use only two drives or more.
RAID 1 is one of the safest data storage systems available.
Why is RAID 0 faster than RAID 1?
RAID 0 array is faster because its main focus is on speed. RAID 0 requires a minimum of two drives, but the more drives you add the faster its READ and WRITE performance becomes. That’s because RAID 0 arrays spread data blocks across all drives. So, the more drives you use, the faster it gets.
When evaluating the performance of RAID 0 vs RAID 1:
RAID 0 is definitely the faster performing option.
What is the purpose of RAID 1?
The main purpose of RAID 1 is redundancy or duplication. The RAID 1 array uses one more disk for parity. It replicates data into at least two drives.
This makes RAID 1 recovery of data very efficient. When a single drive fails, there is no loss of data. However, there is a risk of not knowing that one drive has failed until all drives have failed. So, it is best to consistently check on the drives to ensure that none have failed.
RAID 1 is highly recommended for important transactional operations like email systems, operating system, accounting, and other important operations.
How safe is RAID 1?
RAID 1 has one drive fault tolerance. This makes RAID 1 recovery of data very convenient. It protects you from drive failure and at the same time keeps the NAS going on the remaining storage drive or drives.
Because data blocks are replicated across multiple drives, data can still be accessed during one drive failure. This makes it safer than RAID 0 against data loss.
How do I set up a RAID 1?
- Backup all data
- Install two or more drives to your computer and let it boot into Windows.
- Open “Storage Space.” It is easier if you just type “Storage Space” in Search Windows.
- Select “Create A New Pool and Storage Space.”
- Click on the drop-down menu under “Resiliency” and choose RAID 0.
- Set the drive size under “Size” if necessary, otherwise, it should default to the right setting.
- Select “Create Storage Space.” This will take a few seconds to complete the process.
- When done, you should be able to see a single disk with the correct size in Windows Explorer.
- Search for “Manage Storage Spaces” in the search bar to monitor the array.
Should I use RAID 0 for gaming?
For gaming…
RAID 0 does not really improve performance. And the risk of losing your data permanently is not worth it. Gamers fear losing their gaming progress, so, for that we do not recommend RAID 0 for gaming purposes.
Should I SSDs in my RAID 0?
For desktop and PC owners…
Yes, setting up your RAID 0 using SSD drives in your RAID 0 array works better than using hard disks. RAID 0 will benefit from the increased bandwidth.
Why do I Need to use RAID?

Whether for business or home use, you need a RAID setup to increase your data storage performance and reliability. Important data is always at a risk of permanent loss, especially during power interruptions, manufacturer malfunction, internet outages, accidents or simply through wear and tear of hardware over time.
Protecting data for the continuous flow of business is important. Crucial information may be lost forever if you do not secure your data by using RAID technology. Though, the bigger question is, which RAID level are you going to use – RAID 0 vs RAID 1?
It’s best to understand your needs when deciding between RAID 0 vs RAID 1. What is your main use for the data storage system? If it is for average daily use, like editing photos and videos, RAID 0 is the best option. If you are using it for your important business processes and systems, RAID 1 is the safer and more practical option for you.
If you have any questions about RAID 0 vs RAID 1, feel free to let us know.