SSD Upgrade?

[rtfc3po]

I currently have a Gigabyte P35-DS4 Rev 2.0 MB. I am currently running Vista Ultimate 64bit, but have a "special" copy of Windows 7 Ultimate....

What's the best option for me with this setup?

Keep Vista or install Windows 7?

This would be for gaming.

 

[JohnnyLucky]

Install Microsoft Windows 7. Solid state drives are relatively new and do not do as well with an older operating system like Vista.

 

[rtfc3po]

Alright, what about best drive options in the $200 range.

 

[JohnnyLucky]

According to the Gigabyte specifications for your motherboard it is not SATA 3 6Gb/s capable. You are limited to SATA 2 3Gb/s performance levels. However, SATA 3 6GB/s ssd's are backward compatible with SATA 2 3Gb/s but there will be a performance reduction. A SATA 3 6Gb/s ssd will be reduced down to SATA 2 3Gb/s levels.

If you decide to purchase a SATA 2 3Gb/s ssd, then I recommend the Samsung 470 series ssd's. The 470 series has an excellent track record. They are reliable and relatively trouble free:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100008120%2050001077&IsNodeId=1&name=SAMSUNG

If you decide to purchase a SATA 3 6Gb/s ssd, the I recommend either the Crucial M4 or the Intel 510. Both have established track records and are relatively trouble free.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100008120%2050001455%20600038519&IsNodeId=1&name=Crucial

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100008120%2050001157%20600038519&IsNodeId=1&name=Intel

NOTE - The Intel ssd's command a premium price. If you are a gamer and use you pc mostly for games, then the 510 is not recommended.

 

[rtfc3po]

Thanks! the more I look at the numbers I may just build a whole new rig with Z68 & 2600K, but then there is IB coming out sometime.....Thoughts?

 

[JohnnyLucky]

Every time you purchase new hardware something new and improved becomes available. That's just the way things are.

Personally I decided to skip SandyBridge and Z68 upgrades. I am holding out for the next generation which will incorporate the new PCI-e 3.0 standard. It looks like ssd and video card manufacturers will be migrating to the PCI-e 3.0 standard.

 

[rtfc3po]

That's probably what I will do too. Thank you for your help Jonny!