hardware
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hardware
The physical, material components of a computer system or other electronic devices, as opposed to software.
Für das neue Computerspiel brauche ich bessere Hardware, vor allem eine neue Grafikkarte.
For the new computer game, I need better hardware, especially a new graphics card.
equipment
In a figurative sense, the physical equipment or machine-based components for a specific purpose, also outside IT.
Das Militär investiert massiv in neue Hardware für die Truppen.
The military is investing heavily in new equipment for the troops.
'Hardware' is a loanword from English. It is made up of 'hard' and 'ware' and refers to the 'solid' physical parts of a system.
Die Software ist nutzlos ohne die passende Hardware.
The software is useless without the right hardware.
'Hardware' is used in German as an uncountable noun (mass noun). People say 'viel Hardware' (a lot of hardware) or 'neuer Hardware' (new hardware), but not 'einer Hardware' or 'zwei Hardwares'.
Für Videobearbeitung braucht man leistungsstarke Hardware.
For video editing, you need powerful hardware.
In an IT context, 'Hardware' is often combined with verbs such as 'aufrüsten' (to upgrade), 'installieren' (to install), or 'kaufen' (to buy). The 'Hardware-Anforderungen' (hardware requirements) of a program are also a common expression.
Ich muss meine Hardware aufrüsten, um die neuen Spiele spielen zu können.
I need to upgrade my hardware so I can play the new games.
Outside IT, 'Hardware' refers to physical equipment in a specific field. The context makes the meaning clear, for example in expressions like 'militärische Hardware' (military hardware) or when tools and machines are being discussed.
Die Armee hat neue militärische Hardware bestellt.
The army has ordered new military hardware.
equipment
Ausrüstung includes all the objects, devices, and clothing needed for a purpose. Hardware, on the other hand, refers to the physical components of computers or other electronic devices. Ausrüstung is suitable for the complete set of equipment, while Hardware is used for the physical technical components.
Zur Hardware für den Livestream gehören Kameras, Computer und andere elektronische Geräte.
The hardware for the livestream includes cameras, computers, and other electronic devices.
Zur Ausrüstung für den Livestream gehören Kameras, Lampen, Kabel und Taschen.
The equipment for the livestream includes cameras, lights, cables, and bags.
