Is 120GB SSD Sufficient for Dual Boot Setup of Windows and Linux?

A 120GB SSD can be sufficient for a dual boot setup of Windows and Linux, provided you manage your space wisely. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind as we delve into the specific requirements and best practices.

Windows Requirements

Minimum Requirements: Windows 10 typically requires around 20GB of space for a clean installation, but realistically you will want at least 40GB to 60GB to accommodate updates, applications, and user data. This space will increase as you install more software and updates.

Linux Requirements

Minimum Requirements: Most Linux distributions can run on as little as 10GB, but a more comfortable setup would be around 20GB to 30GB, especially if you want to install additional software. If space is a concern, consider using a lightweight distribution of Linux like Lubuntu or Xubuntu, which can save space significantly.

Recommendations for Partitioning

You could allocate around 50GB for Windows and 30GB for Linux, allowing some extra space for the bootloader and other system files. This allocation ensures a balanced distribution of space and flexibility for future needs.

Utilizing Your 1TB HDD

Since you have a separate 1TB HDD, you can install most applications and store data there, which helps alleviate space constraints on the SSD. This approach not only optimizes your storage but also ensures that your dual boot system remains responsive and efficient.

Regular Maintenance for Optimal Performance

Regularly monitoring and cleaning up unnecessary files on both operating systems is crucial for maintaining disk space and overall performance. Tools like Disk Cleanup in Windows and task cleaners in Linux distributions can be invaluable in this process.

Conclusion

While a 120GB SSD may seem tight, it is manageable if you plan your installations carefully and leverage your 1TB HDD for data and applications. If you find that you need more space in the future, upgrading the SSD is a feasible option.

Additionally, it's important to note that different versions of Windows and Linux have varying space requirements. For instance, Windows 7 or XP would require much more space, and newer versions like Windows 10 and Linux Mint Cinnamon 21.1 all need around 120GB. In such cases, installing the main system on the SSD and additional applications on the HDD would be a practical solution. Moreover, having at least 12GB or even 16GB of RAM is recommended to ensure a smooth dual boot experience, especially for more demanding applications like virtual machines.