What's the current sweet spot for 1.8" SSDs (price/performance)

I have a new-to-me computer on the way (an HP Elitebook 2730p tablet)
Specs:
Core 2 Duo SL9400 / 1.86 GHz LV - Centrino 2 with vPro
4 GB RAM
80 GB HDD
GMA 4500MHD

I am wanting to drop in an SSD and recognize that the 1.8" limits me in terms of choice. This unit will be running Windows 7 and is used as my portable laptop (while my better equipped notebooks remain on docking stations). I don't anticipate needing more that 64-80GB on this (even with W7 eating up 20GBs of that). I will throw in an SD card if I need an additional 8-16GBs.

I have been trying to get up to speed on SSDs and I have been reading a lot of threads, but am still having a hard time discerning the current "best option" in the 1.8" world. Any suggestions?

 

This seems like the best right now:

See:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/har...434891-runcore-proiv-zif-ssd-user-review.html


or, if you need an IDE SSD:

See:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/har...rades/531052-1-8-zif-pata-ssds-available.html


I would not recommend you get an SSD if you will be using the full capacity (and you still want the maximum performance of your SSD). Leave at least 20% free (after formatting).

Good luck.

 

How do I know if I need an IDE SSD?

 

What is in your notebook now?

Look in Device Manager and see what connection it shows to your current HDD.

 

It is unlikely to be a PATA and if that is the case, why not get the intel x25m ? they have 1.8" form factor

 

I am receiving an HP 2730P that I just purchased. Will check once I get it.

 

Yeah, the system seems to be SATA based on a quick google check.

Much better options!

 

There is a Crucial C300 64GB for about $130. I say that's the best right now.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...358&cm_re=crucial_c300-_-20-148-358-_-Product

Top performance but you need SATA III (6Gbps) to get the best out of it (which your laptop almost certainly doesn't have!).

 

The C300 is probably the best performer but it consumes more power than the Intel and Kingston V+ so if you care about power consumption and want a good performer the Intel and Kingston V+ are good ones to consider.
Benchmark Results: Power Consumption : Roundup: The Best SSDs For Enthusiasts

Of course we have to rely on 2.5 SSD reviews and 1.8 drives often consume less power. I wish more reviewers actually reviewed more 1.8 micro Sata drives.

 

Renice 1.8" SF1200 microsata SSD. Like a OCZ Vertex 2 but a lot cheaper.

 

Rachel, according to Phil, the C300 is the worst performer when used with a SATA2 (and worse, I presume, a SATA1) interface.

Also, a 1.8 drive doesn't have to use less power than a 2.5 inch drive - the components inside are usually identical.

 

If any laptop with those specs is using SATA 1 then i'm going to be very surprised. nando4 seems to be know a lot about HP ultraportables so may be they will know. I've googled but couldn't find the spec sheet.

It seems that the Vertex 2 is the one to go for for SATA II laptops if you want the best peformance but i'm not sure if the C300 is actually the worst performer. Still, like i wrote before i think the Kingston V+ and Intel are very good choices to go for.

Btw, this is the 160GB 1.8 Intel G2 drive in the Sony TT
http://forum.notebookreview.com/att...ch-intel-ssdsa1m160-3.16.2010-11-04-26-pm.png

There are other microsata SSD's that perform a lot worse than the C300 in Sata II speeds.

I really would like to see reviewers reviewing more 1.8 microsata SSD's.

 

Tried finding one for sale-not so easy. Spent some time on online chat and they are going to get back with me on pricing and availability. Has anyone found a distributor for Renice?