GPT vs. MBR - a comparison of partition management
Related Videos: MBR and GPT Partition Tables (April 2024).
GPT vs. MBR - both standards let you manage partitions from USB stick or hard drive. We compare both partition administrations for you in this practical tip.
MBR - all information at a glance
- Primary partitions: 4 primary partitions can be created with the MBR.
- Max. Partition size: The maximum partition size may be 2 TB.
- Max. Hard disk size: The maximum size of the hard disk must not exceed 2 TB.
- Security: For security there is a data sector with the associated checksum that uniquely identifies the data carrier.
- Partition name: Depending on the file system, the name is stored directly in the partition. This will identify them directly.
GPT - all information
- Primary partitions: On Windows you have the option to create 128 primary partitions.
- Max. Partition size: In the GPT, the maximum partition size is a whopping 18 ExaByte.
- Max. Hard disk size: The hard disk in the GPT can also have a maximum size of 18 ExaByte.
- Security: For security, several data sectors (partitions) are created and provided with checksums and backup sectors. These backup sectors help in an emergency.
- Partition name: A GUID (globally unique ID) is created, followed by a 36-character partition name. This also enables the partition and the data carrier to be clearly identified.
In the next practical tip, read how to remove a GPT partition.