Hibernate vs. Standby: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Hibernate saves the computer's state to the hard drive and powers off, while standby keeps the computer in a low-power state with data in RAM.
Key Differences
Hibernate mode saves all current data to the hard drive and shuts down the computer, allowing no power usage. Standby mode, however, keeps the computer in a low-power state, using a small amount of power to maintain data in RAM.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
On resuming from hibernate, the computer reloads the saved state from the hard drive, which can take longer than waking from standby. Standby allows for quicker resume times, as data is kept in RAM and the computer does not fully power off.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
Hibernate is ideal for extended periods of non-use, as it conserves more energy and the computer’s state can be preserved indefinitely without power. Standby is better for short breaks, as it provides a faster start-up while still saving energy.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
In hibernate, the risk of data loss due to power failure is minimal since the data is stored on the hard drive. In standby, a power outage can lead to data loss as the information is only held in temporary memory (RAM).
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
Hibernate requires enough hard drive space to store the contents of the computer's RAM. Standby does not have this requirement, as it continues to use RAM albeit with reduced power consumption.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Risk of Data Loss
Minimal (data saved on hard drive)
Possible with power failure (data in RAM)
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
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Hibernate and Standby Definitions
Hibernate
A mode for long-term inactivity of a device with data storage on the hard drive.
I prefer hibernate mode for my computer during vacations.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
Standby
A state of readiness with reduced power usage.
My computer is on standby, so I can quickly start working again.
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Nov 16, 2023
Hibernate
To put a computer into a low-power state by saving its state to the hard drive.
I hibernate my laptop overnight to save energy.
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Nov 16, 2023
Standby
A mode of minimal power consumption while the device is not in active use.
Standby mode is perfect for short periods away from my desk.
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Nov 16, 2023
Hibernate
A process of shutting down a computer while retaining its current state.
After hibernating my computer, I can resume work exactly where I left off.
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Nov 16, 2023
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Standby
A temporary low-power mode maintaining current session in RAM.
Standby mode keeps my documents open and ready to use.
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Nov 16, 2023
Hibernate
An energy-saving mode that fully powers off the computer.
Hibernate mode helps in extending the lifespan of my computer's battery.
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Nov 16, 2023
Standby
A power-saving state where a computer runs at low power while keeping data in RAM.
I put my computer on standby during lunch breaks.
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Nov 16, 2023
Hibernate
To be in a dormant or torpid state during a cold period, especially during the winter.
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Oct 19, 2023
Hibernate
To be in an inactive or dormant state or period
"In Lawrenceville people hibernated and life passed them by" (Jacqueline Susann).
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Oct 19, 2023
Hibernate
To spend the winter in a dormant or inactive state of minimal activity, low body temperature, slow breathing and heart rate, and low metabolic rate; to go through a winter sleep.
Hedgehogs and bears are two of the many mammals that hibernate in winter.
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Oct 19, 2023
Standby
A mode of operation for a computer, television, or other electronic device in which the power is on and the device is ready for immediate use.
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Oct 19, 2023
Hibernate
To enter a standby state which conserves power without losing the contents of memory.
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Oct 19, 2023
Standby
Of, relating to, or waiting for unreserved travel space that is made available by an airline only shortly before departure
Standby passengers.
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Oct 19, 2023
Hibernate
To winter; to pass the season of winter in close quarters, in a torpid or lethargic state, as certain mammals, reptiles, and insects.
Inclination would lead me to hibernate, during half the year, in this uncomfortable climate of Great Britain.
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Oct 19, 2023
Hibernate
Sleep during winter;
Bears must eat a lot of food before they hibernate in their caves
Certain animals estivate
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Oct 19, 2023
Standby
A state of readiness without immediate involvement; remaining in preparation for (a sudden or unforeseen event or situation).
The troops were on standby in case of an attack.
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Oct 19, 2023
Hibernate
A state where a computer completely powers off, preserving its session.
Hibernate is useful for conserving battery when not using my computer for a while.
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Nov 16, 2023
Standby
(travel) Waiting at the airport in the hope of getting a seat on a flight that is already booked out.
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Oct 19, 2023
Standby
Something that is standard, well-tested, or frequently used.
That recipe is an old standby, and she keeps the ingredients around in case of unexpected guests.
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Oct 19, 2023
Standby
To wait briefly, as for additional communication by radio or telephone; stand by
Standby while I check that for you.
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Oct 19, 2023
Standby
A low-energy state that allows for quick resumption of activity.
I use standby to quickly access my files after short meetings.
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Nov 16, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
How long can a computer stay in Hibernate?
Indefinitely, as it does not use power and data is stored on the hard drive.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
Is Hibernate more energy-efficient than Standby?
Yes, as it powers off the computer completely.
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Nov 16, 2023
What is Hibernate mode?
A mode where a computer saves its state to the hard drive and powers off.
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Nov 16, 2023
Can data be lost during Standby?
Yes, if there's a power failure, since data is stored in RAM.
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Nov 16, 2023
Is Standby suitable for overnight?
It's less efficient than Hibernate for long periods.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
How does Standby differ from Hibernate?
Standby keeps the computer in a low-power state with data in RAM, unlike Hibernate.
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Nov 16, 2023
What happens to open applications in Hibernate?
They are saved and restored upon waking the computer.
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Nov 16, 2023
Does Hibernate take up hard drive space?
Yes, it requires space equivalent to the RAM size.
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Nov 16, 2023
Is Standby a good option for short breaks?
Yes, it's ideal for quick pauses in work.
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Nov 16, 2023
How quickly can a computer wake from Standby?
Very quickly, as data remains in RAM.
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Nov 16, 2023
Can all computers Hibernate?
Most modern computers support Hibernate, but it depends on the operating system and hardware.
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Nov 16, 2023
How do I enable Hibernate on my computer?
It can typically be enabled in the power settings of the operating system.
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Nov 16, 2023
Is Standby the same as Sleep mode?
Yes, in many systems, Standby and Sleep mode are interchangeable.
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Nov 16, 2023
Is Standby less secure than Hibernate?
Not necessarily, but Hibernate ensures no data is left in volatile memory.
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Nov 16, 2023
Can Hibernate help in saving battery life?
Yes, as it completely powers off the computer.
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Nov 16, 2023
How does Hibernate affect computer performance?
It has no negative effect; performance resumes as normal after waking.
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Nov 16, 2023
Does Standby mode require a continuous power source?
Yes, it requires a small amount of power to maintain data in RAM.
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Nov 16, 2023
Can I schedule a computer to Hibernate?
Yes, many operating systems allow scheduling of Hibernate.
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Nov 16, 2023
Does waking from Hibernate require a password?
It depends on the user settings, but usually it requires login like a normal startup.
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Nov 16, 2023
Can updates install during Standby?
Generally, no, updates require the computer to be active or a restart.
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Nov 16, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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