Difference Between
versus

Hibernate vs. Standby: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
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.
Hibernate vs. Standby

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
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
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
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
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
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Comparison Chart

Power Consumption

No power used
Low power used
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Data Storage

Saves data to hard drive
Keeps data in RAM
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Resumption Time

Longer resumption time
Quicker resumption time
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Ideal Usage

Extended periods of non-use
Short breaks
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Risk of Data Loss

Minimal (data saved on hard drive)
Possible with power failure (data in RAM)
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

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
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Standby

A temporary low-power mode maintaining current session in RAM.
Standby mode keeps my documents open and ready to use.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Hibernate

To be in a dormant or torpid state during a cold period, especially during the winter.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Standby

One that can always be relied on, as in an emergency.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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).
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Standby

One kept in readiness to serve as a substitute.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hibernate

(intransitive) To live in seclusion.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Standby

Kept in reserve for use when needed
A standby generator.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hibernate

To enter a standby state which conserves power without losing the contents of memory.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Standby

On a standby basis
Flew standby to New York.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hibernate

Sleep during winter;
Bears must eat a lot of food before they hibernate in their caves
Certain animals estivate
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hibernate

Be in an inactive or dormant state
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Standby

(electronics) sleep mode
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Standby

(travel) Waiting at the airport in the hope of getting a seat on a flight that is already booked out.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Standby

To wait briefly, as for additional communication by radio or telephone; stand by
Standby while I check that for you.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Standby

Something that can be relied on when needed
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Standby

An actor able to replace a regular performer when required
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Standby

Ready for emergency use;
A standby generator
A standby crew
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Is Hibernate more energy-efficient than Standby?

Yes, as it powers off the computer completely.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

What is Hibernate mode?

A mode where a computer saves its state to the hard drive and powers off.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Can data be lost during Standby?

Yes, if there's a power failure, since data is stored in RAM.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Is Standby suitable for overnight?

It's less efficient than Hibernate for long periods.
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

What happens to open applications in Hibernate?

They are saved and restored upon waking the computer.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Does Hibernate take up hard drive space?

Yes, it requires space equivalent to the RAM size.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Is Standby a good option for short breaks?

Yes, it's ideal for quick pauses in work.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

How quickly can a computer wake from Standby?

Very quickly, as data remains in RAM.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Can all computers Hibernate?

Most modern computers support Hibernate, but it depends on the operating system and hardware.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

How do I enable Hibernate on my computer?

It can typically be enabled in the power settings of the operating system.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Is Standby the same as Sleep mode?

Yes, in many systems, Standby and Sleep mode are interchangeable.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Is Standby less secure than Hibernate?

Not necessarily, but Hibernate ensures no data is left in volatile memory.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Can Hibernate help in saving battery life?

Yes, as it completely powers off the computer.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

How does Hibernate affect computer performance?

It has no negative effect; performance resumes as normal after waking.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Does Standby mode require a continuous power source?

Yes, it requires a small amount of power to maintain data in RAM.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Can I schedule a computer to Hibernate?

Yes, many operating systems allow scheduling of Hibernate.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
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.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Can updates install during Standby?

Generally, no, updates require the computer to be active or a restart.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Share this page

Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila 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.

Popular Comparisons

Trending Comparisons

Smart TV vs. Android TVSmart TV vs. Android TV
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Smart TV is an internet-connected television with a variety of apps, while an Android TV is specifically a Smart TV powered by Google's Android TV operating system.
Special Education vs. Inclusive EducationSpecial Education vs. Inclusive Education
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 17, 2024
Special Education is tailored instruction for students with disabilities, while Inclusive Education integrates all students, including those with disabilities, into general education settings.
Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 8, 2024
The Seagate Exos X16 offers up to 16TB storage with a focus on high-capacity data centers, while the Exos X18 upgrades to 18TB, enhancing performance and capacity for enterprise demands.
C3 Plants vs. C4 PlantsC3 Plants vs. C4 Plants
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
C3 plants use a direct carbon fixation process, common in cooler climates, while C4 plants have a specialized mechanism, efficient in high light and temperature.
Social Change vs. Cultural ChangeSocial Change vs. Cultural Change
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Social change refers to shifts in societal structures and institutions, impacting behaviors and relationships among people. Cultural change pertains to alterations in a group's shared beliefs, values, and customs, influencing their way of life.
Compression Wood vs. Tension WoodCompression Wood vs. Tension Wood
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Compression Wood is a denser, abnormal growth in softwood trees under mechanical stress, whereas Tension Wood is a less dense, fibrous growth in hardwoods under similar stress.
Term vs. SemesterTerm vs. Semester
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Term is a general period for any division of the academic year, while Semester specifically refers to half of an academic year.
Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 1, 2024
Gorilla Glass 3 offers improved scratch resistance and durability compared to its predecessors, while Gorilla Glass 5 focuses on enhanced drop protection and toughness.
Gavage vs. LavageGavage vs. Lavage
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Gavage is the process of feeding a person or animal by inserting a tube into the stomach, while lavage is the washing out of a body cavity, such as the stomach, typically for medical treatment.
Travel Agent vs. Tour OperatorTravel Agent vs. Tour Operator
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A travel agent is a professional who arranges travel plans for individuals, while a tour operator designs and manages complete travel packages.
Sausage vs. SmokieSausage vs. Smokie
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A sausage is a type of meat product usually made from ground meat, often pork, beef, or poultry, while a smokie is a specific type of smoked sausage.
Hard Copy vs. Soft CopyHard Copy vs. Soft Copy
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Hard Copy is a physical version of a document or file, usually on paper, while a Soft Copy is a digital version of the document, stored electronically.
Nanomaterials vs. NanoparticlesNanomaterials vs. Nanoparticles
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Nanomaterials are diverse materials with components smaller than 100nm, whereas nanoparticles are specific, ultrafine particles within this size range.
Plant Cell vs. Animal CellPlant Cell vs. Animal Cell
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Plant cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts for photosynthesis, while animal cells lack these but have centrioles.
Japanese Eyes vs. Chinese EyesJapanese Eyes vs. Chinese Eyes
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Japanese Eyes and Chinese Eyes refer to linguistic structures in Japanese and Chinese respectively, each reflecting unique aspects of grammar and syntax.
Batch Fermentation vs. Continuous FermentationBatch Fermentation vs. Continuous Fermentation
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 10, 2024
Batch Fermentation is a finite process where nutrients are added at the start and products are harvested at the end, whereas Continuous Fermentation involves a steady input of nutrients and continuous product harvest.
Analog Computer vs. Digital ComputerAnalog Computer vs. Digital Computer
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
An Analog Computer processes continuous data, whereas a Digital Computer processes data in discrete numerical form.
2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
2 Pole Motors have one pair of magnetic poles and run at higher speeds, while 4 Pole Motors have two pairs of poles and operate at lower speeds, offering higher torque.
Absolute Privilege vs. Qualified PrivilegeAbsolute Privilege vs. Qualified Privilege
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 26, 2023
Absolute privilege is a complete defense against defamation claims, often used in legal or parliamentary contexts, while qualified privilege offers conditional protection, requiring the absence of malice.
Goth vs. AltGoth vs. Alt
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 5, 2024
Goth is a dark, often Victorian-influenced subculture and style, while Alt (alternative) is a broader term encompassing non-mainstream styles and attitudes.
Kinesthesiology vs. KinesiologyKinesthesiology vs. Kinesiology
Hifza NasirHifza Nasir
March 13, 2024
Kinesiology studies human movement and its impact on health, while kinesthesiology is not a recognized term; it's often a mispronunciation or misspelling of kinesiology.
Fast Food vs. Traditional FoodFast Food vs. Traditional Food
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Fast Food is quick, convenient, and often pre-prepared, while Traditional Food emphasizes cultural recipes, longer preparation times, and home cooking.
Handsome vs. SmartHandsome vs. Smart
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Handsome describes physical attractiveness, focusing on looks, while smart denotes intelligence or cleverness, related to mental capabilities.
Consecutive vs. SubsequentConsecutive vs. Subsequent
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Consecutive refers to events or things following one after another in uninterrupted sequence, whereas subsequent denotes following in time or order, but not necessarily immediately afterward.

Featured Comparisons

New Comparisons