MBR and GPT are ways of partitioning storage units (HD or SSD). MBR is an older form of partitioning and works great on operating systems up to Windows 8.1, while GPT is the best option for Windows 10.
When inserting an HD or SSD unit in WIndows, the user must choose which of the partition modes should be performed. In general, GPT mode is preferred, but for older, 32-bit operating systems, MBR is preferred.
| MBR | GPT | |
|---|---|---|
| What it means? | Master Boot Record | GUID Partition Table |
| What is it for? | Divide a storage unit (HD or SSD) into primary partitions. Each partition allows its own use with its own operating system. | Divide a storage unit (HD or SSD) into primary partitions. Each partition allows its own use with its own operating system. |
| Benefits | It can be used on older operating systems up to Windows 8.1 and on 32-bit processors. | Support up to 128 partitions in Windows system, No partition recognition limit. |
| Disadvantages |
Doesn't work on newer systems like Windows 10, its partition reading is limited to 2TB. It only allows 4 partitions, compared to GPT's 128. |
It does not work on 32-bit processors, nor on operating systems prior to Windows 8.1. |
What is MBR?
MBR stands for “Master Boot Record”, it is the oldest method of partitioning, it allows the creation of up to 4 primary partitions. MBR is recommended on older operating systems, up to Windows 8.1, and is the only option on 32-bit processors.
A limitation of the MBR partition is presented by the increase in storage capacity of the new generations of HDD and SSD. MBR limits read and recognition of each partition to 2TB. In case a partition exceeds this limit, the part which is beyond 2TB becomes unknown and unusable.
What is GPT?
GPT stands for "GUID Partition Table", it is a more current model of HDD or SSD partition, as it has advantages over MBR, it should be used whenever possible. However, GPT can only be used on 64-bit processors and operating systems after Windows 8.1.
GPT supports up to 128 partitions on Windows operating system and on Linux systems, this number can still be increased. The partition reading limit in GPT is 9.4 ZB, which makes it practically unlimited.
MBR or GPT, which is better?
As it is a more modern system, GPT is the best option because it has more features and functionality. However, in specific cases of older operating systems and 32-bit processors, MBR is the choice to be made.
See also the difference between:
- hardware and software
- Computer measurement units kB, MB and GB
- HDTS, DVDRip, BDRip, HDTV and other video formats
- HD, Full HD, Ultra HD, 4K, 8K resolutions
- Gel film and glass film
