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[Mineshaft_Gap]

I've got a bit of extra cash and I'm torn between what to spend it on.

In the one hand I'm looking at a 250GB Samsung EVO SSD. This is attractive because I just built a tower and I'd like to have it be as high performance as possible.

The down slope is that I've already got a 1TB caviar blue for system storage/applications/games and a 3TB WD Green for media. I'd be using the SSD as my c drive so I'm going to have to set up and configure everything again. Pain in the ass.

And lastly, it's a desktop which is pretty much always on. As such, boot times aren't all that important to me. If we were dealing with a laptop here the answer would be a no brainer. But are the performance gains massive enough during regular use to justify the expense in an always on system?

Alternatively I'm looking at an 8" Windows tablet Ala the Dell Venue 8 Pro as a laptop replacement. I have a laptop with an i7 currently but would love to downsize. Since I no longer require raw performance power in a laptop I'm thinking a W8.1 tablet would be ideal for how I intend to use it. Which will primarily be for productivity (Office), PLEX, and when I need power - RDP into my desktop at home.

 

[crimsondynamics]

I think you answered your own question - and if I had to choose between the two, I'd probably do the same.

 

[knitoe]

Yes. Having OS on a SSD is a huge performance gain. Every time people say I don't mind faster boot time, that's actually the least important gain from going SSD. A SSD, with OS, makes the computer much more snappy and responsive. Click on anything and it almost instantly opens. You will never get that from HDDs, ~0 vs 9-12ms seek times.

As for Windows tablet, if you want to do productive stuff on it, I would suggest 10" or above. Anything smaller, the screen is just too small for that. 8" are good mostly for media consumption.

 

[Flying Toaster]

SSD all the way, no questions asked. Once you experience those performance gains you will wonder why you waited so long.

 

[kurbaan]

I would get the tablet. SSD is nice but id rather have a new device.

 

[davepoobond]

Get both.

 

[Kyoufu]

SSD, no doubt. Your life will never be the same again.

 

[commedieu]

Get both.

 

[Deleted member 325805]

Until you've experienced SSD you cant know just how nice it is.

 

[Keyouta]

SSD. You'll never go back.

 

[The_Inquisitor]

SSD.

 

[terrisus]

An SSD is easily the best upgrade you can make to a computer.
Even if you don't care about boot times/always have the computer on, everything just opens and loads so much faster and runs so much smoother on it.

Once you've gone SSD, you will never go back.

 

[Gentle Rodriguez]

Huh. Was thinking about getting an SSD myself, this thread sure convinced me fast.

 

[Mineshaft_Gap]

Since I already used my W8.1 license on this PC will I have to contact MS to have them transfer the license?

 

[TMC]

An SSD is easily the best upgrade you can make to a computer.
Even if you don't care about boot times/always have the computer on, everything just opens and loads so much faster and runs so much smoother on it.

Once you've gone SSD, you will never go back.

Will a SSD actually improve boot times significantly? I always hear conflicting reports on that. That's actually what I care about most (in my laptop anyways).

 

[CriterionDog]

Windows tablet : )

 

[Tablo]

SSD. Though I would prefer a Crucial M500 over the Samsung.

 

[terrisus]

Will a SSD actually improve boot times significantly? I always hear conflicting reports on that. That's actually what I care about most (in my laptop anyways).

Significantly.

In my previous laptop, I had a 7200 RPM drive. I put in an SSD as a boot drive and moved the other drive to the 2nd HD slot and it made a huge difference.

Then in my current laptop, it had a 5400 RPM drive. I ordered an mSATA SSD for it, and had to use the 5400 RPM drive while I was waiting for it. It was practically torture it was so slow. Now that I have the mSATA SSD in it (and a 7200 RPM drive in the 1st HD slot, with the 5400 RPM drive moved to the 2nd HD slot), it's amazing now too.

As I said, once you've gone SSD, you just simply can't go back.

 

[mr stroke]

SSD with out question. Your computer life will never be the same once you have one.

 

[Grimm Fandango]

SSD

But 250GB is a lot of memory. You sure you need that much?

 

[TMC]

Significantly.

In my previous laptop, I had a 7200 RPM drive. I put in an SSD as a boot drive and moved the other drive to the 2nd HD slot and it made a huge difference.

Then in my current laptop, it had a 5400 RPM drive. I ordered an mSATA SSD for it, and had to use the 5400 RPM drive while I was waiting for it. It was practically torture it was so slow. Now that I have the mSATA SSD in it (and a 7200 RPM drive in the 1st HD slot, with the 5400 RPM drive moved to the 2nd HD slot), it's amazing now too.

As I said, once you've gone SSD, you just simply can't go back.

What would you say is your boot time in seconds (What OS as well)?

I think this thread also convinced me to get an SSD soon.

 

[maliedoo]

Just bought this to replace my 1TB sata. It's amazing how much faster it is..

 

[NathanMcMahon]

Upgraded to a SSD a few weeks ago. My god I had no idea what I was missing.

 

[strata8]

SSD. Though I would prefer a Crucial M500 over the Samsung.

The 840 EVO is anywhere between 20-50% faster than the M500 in real world scenarios.

Look at the average data rate on both the Heavy and Light tests.

 

[terrisus]

What would you say is your boot time in seconds (What OS as well)?

I think this thread also convinced me to get an SSD soon.

Windows 8.1 (old laptop was Windows 7), using ClassicShell (which adds a bit to the startup time) and also with a password login (so kind of hard to judge if one didn't have a password), but, probably in the neighborhood of 21 seconds from pressing the power button to being able to open up an application (that is, even past when the desktop appears, I click on my web browser and it's loaded within that 21 seconds. I include that since, before with the old hard drive, even once the desktop appeared, I would click on an icon, and it would take forever until the hard drive figured out what the heck it was doing and actually loaded it. Probably closer to 18-19 seconds if one just counts until the desktop appears).

 

[knitoe]

What would you say is your boot time in seconds (What OS as well)?

I think this thread also convinced me to get an SSD soon.

As I already stated, boot times are the least important benefit from going SSD. Even if your boot time shows no difference, you will see your PC being way more snappy and responsive right away. Then, after getting use to it, I dare anyone to go back to HDD only.

 

[terrisus]

Also, with regards to types, I have an Intel 520 120GB mSATA SSD.

mSATA so I could have an extra hard drive slot (have that 120GB mSATA SSD, a 1TB 7200 RPM HD, and a 1TB 5400 RPM HD, for a total of 2.12TB of storage in my laptop), and Intel since I like their reliability, even though there are other faster ones out there.

 

[erpg]

A device that shaves seconds off loading and boot-up (which doesn't matter to you), or a device that provides crazy convenience.

Honestly, I don't know how anyone could choose an SSD over a tablet. I'd rather stream shit while I shit than load a game faster.

 

[TMC]

As I already stated, boot times are the least important benefit from going SSD. Even if your boot time shows no difference, you will see your PC being way more snappy and responsive right away. Then, after getting use to it, I dare anyone to go back to HDD only.

Windows 8.1 (old laptop was Windows 7), using ClassicShell (which adds a bit to the startup time) and also with a password login (so kind of hard to judge if one didn't have a password), but, probably in the neighborhood of 21 seconds from pressing the power button to being able to open up an application (that is, even past when the desktop appears, I click on my web browser and it's loaded within that 21 seconds. I include that since, before with the old hard drive, even once the desktop appeared, I would click on an icon, and it would take forever until the hard drive figured out what the heck it was doing and actually loaded it. Probably closer to 18-19 seconds if one just counts until the desktop appears).

Thanks guys! I appreciate the input!

 

[FairyD]

Get the SSD. You will never go back.

 

[rrs]

Yes. Having OS on a SSD is a huge performance gain. Every time people say I don't mind faster boot time, that's actually the least important gain from going SSD. A SSD, with OS, makes the computer much more snappy and responsive. Click on anything and it almost instantly opens. You will never get that from HDDs, ~0 vs 9-12ms seek times.

Pretty much this, it's such an amazing feeling. Also OP, you don't really need a 250 GB SSD unless you got a ton of programs.

As for Windows tablet, if you want to do productive stuff on it, I would suggest 10" or above. Anything smaller, the screen is just too small for that. 8" are good mostly for media consumption.

Unless some sort of external keyboard is involved, 8" is fine. However, using office with the on screen keyboard can get annoying.

Windows 8.1 (old laptop was Windows 7), using ClassicShell (which adds a bit to the startup time) and also with a password login (so kind of hard to judge if one didn't have a password), but, probably in the neighborhood of 21 seconds from pressing the power button to being able to open up an application (that is, even past when the desktop appears, I click on my web browser and it's loaded within that 21 seconds. I include that since, before with the old hard drive, even once the desktop appeared, I would click on an icon, and it would take forever until the hard drive figured out what the heck it was doing and actually loaded it. Probably closer to 18-19 seconds if one just counts until the desktop appears).

Get 19 seconds from power on, password, desktop then chrome on my ultrabook, no classicshell however.

 

[Red Comet]

That's a tough one, and while most people will definitely say the SSD, I would say go with the tablet in your situation and then get the SSD later.

I've got a Samsung 840 Pro SSD (maybe one of the fastest SSD's on the planet), and I absolutely love having it, but I don't think faster boot and loading times have revolutionized my life as much as a tablet has. It's just so convenient having something you can carry around in your hand everywhere in the house and being able to browse the internet and play Angry Birds. Then again, my computer was never that slow even on a HDD.

That said, certain games (like Diablo 3) pretty much require a SSD to run well, so if you're big into games that run better on a SSD, then purchase that first.

 

[Mineshaft_Gap]

The 250GB has faster specs than the lower capacity. Besides, I intend on installing games on it.

What about Windows licenses. Will I need to get MS to transfer the license even though it's just being installed onto another HDD in the same PC?

Tablet will be used almost exclusively to write notes in class. Large papers will be written on my desktop unless I'm in a pinch. I already have a ton of Bluetooth accessories too.

 

[neptunes]

I'd personally go with the Tablet and save for an SDD some other time.

One offers new a functionality and experience, the other is just an added convenience.

 

[Red Comet]

The 250GB has faster specs than the lower capacity. Besides, I intend on installing games on it.

What about Windows licenses. Will I need to get MS to transfer the license even though it's just being installed onto another HDD in the same PC?

I cloned my OS onto my SSD using the Samsung Magician software and I had to reactivate it. I think it's pretty hit or miss if you'll have to do this though. But if you do, it's easy as pie. If you have to reactivate it just follow the instructions on screen or call the number and they'll give you a new activation code.

 

[terrisus]

What about Windows licenses. Will I need to get MS to transfer the license even though it's just being installed onto another HDD in the same PC?

I just cloned from my old HD to the SSD.
Not sure about re-installing - create a recovery disc or something?

 

[knitoe]

Unless some sort of external keyboard is involved, 8" is fine. However, using office with the on screen keyboard can get annoying.

I have a HP Omni 10, and even then, I wish it had a slightly larger screen for productivity. Working on a 8" would be a pain. Watching reviewers of the 8" tablets shows the same sentiments.

Tablet will be used almost exclusively to write notes in class. Large papers will be written on my desktop unless I'm in a pinch. I already have a ton of Bluetooth accessories too.

Then, you should be fine with the 8" Venue. Make sure to buy the new fixed stylus from Dell's website.

 

[Mineshaft_Gap]

Does anyone have any recommendations for 8" Windows tablet should I choose to go that direction? I'm torn between the Lenovo 8" and the Venue 8 Pro. If that's the direction I end up going.

8" is also the sweet spot for budgetary reasons.

 

[rrs]

The 250GB has faster specs than the lower capacity. Besides, I intend on installing games on it.

What about Windows licenses. Will I need to get MS to transfer the license even though it's just being installed onto another HDD in the same PC?

Tablet will be used almost exclusively to write notes in class. Large papers will be written on my desktop unless I'm in a pinch. I already have a ton of Bluetooth accessories too.

You'll be fine reinstalling the OS on the same hardware on a different disk drive.

I have a HP Omni 10, and even then, I wish it had a slightly larger screen for productivity. Working on a 8" would be a pain. Watching reviewers of the 8" tablets shows the same sentiments.

I have a ThinkPad Twist, 12.5" screen and I'd wish the keyboard would be smaller so I can see more what I'm doing without putting it vertically. This for example

 

[maliedoo]

Does anyone have any recommendations for 8" Windows tablet should I choose to go that direction? I'm torn between the Lenovo 8" and the Venue 8 Pro. If that's the direction I end up going.

8" is also the sweet spot for budgetary reasons.

Yes, Venue 8 Pro, we use them at work and they do quite nicely, also, get the stylus.

 

[knitoe]

Does anyone have any recommendations for 8" Windows tablet should I choose to go that direction? I'm torn between the Lenovo 8" and the Venue 8 Pro. If that's the direction I end up going.

8" is also the sweet spot for budgetary reasons.

Do you need stylus? Go Venue. Buy the improve fixed stylus from Dell's website. If no, go Lenovo Miix 2 for better performance and battery life.

 

[Beautifully Shaped Monsters]

Certain games will also run significantly faster. I just moved BF4 to my SSD and loading a level went from more than a minute to 10 seconds or so.

Basically anything with large amounts of assets will benefit from an SSD.

I'm thinking about supplementing my 128GB with a 256GB soon.

 

[Tablo]

The 840 EVO is anywhere between 20-50% faster than the M500 in real world scenarios.

Look at the average data rate on both the Heavy and Light tests.

Diminishing returns, the M500 is more reliable and is resistant to power surges.

 

[terrisus]

Certain games will also run significantly faster. I just moved BF4 to my SSD and loading a level went from more than a minute to 10 seconds or so.

Basically anything with large amounts of assets will benefit from an SSD.

I'm thinking about supplementing my 128GB with a 256GB soon.

Playing through Skyrim, I didn't even have time to read the messages on the loading screen before the loading was finished.

 

[knitoe]

Certain games will also run significantly faster. I just moved BF4 to my SSD and loading a level went from more than a minute to 10 seconds or so.

Basically anything with large amounts of assets will benefit from an SSD.

I'm thinking about supplementing my 128GB with a 256GB soon.

You could get the same ssd and raid 0. You still get 256GB total and faster performance.

 

[Beautifully Shaped Monsters]

You could get the same ssd and raid 0. You still get 256GB total and faster performance.

By supplementing I meant just install it as a new drive and install more stuff there for a total of ~380GB of glorious SSD.

 

[strata8]

Diminishing returns, the M500 is more reliable and is resistant to power surges.

Fair enough, and the resistance to loss of power is a real advantage. But there hasn't been evidence for lower reliability with TLC vs. MLC in normal workloads.

 

[Mineshaft_Gap]

I went with the SSD. Got back with it a little bit ago. Just installed Windows.

Gonna use it for a while and keep if I like. Otherwise I'll just return since I purchased at best buy.

 

[Jel44]

Just bought this to replace my 1TB sata. It's amazing how much faster it is..

750GB... Oh my.

 

[Shogmaster]

SSD. Though I would prefer a Crucial M500 over the Samsung.

Write speed on the 240GB M500 is not good. I just bought a 256GB Lite On M6M mSATA SSD (OEM for Plextor mSATA) and it does 400+MB seq write vs 250ish MB on the 240GB M500.

Still MLC so superior in seek times to Sammy 840 EVO's TLC set up.

And cheaper too ($129 for 256GB).

AND comes with Windows 8 Pro preinstalled on it!

Only funky thing is that it's sold as an HP OEM drive, and is partitioned into 64GB and rest, so if you want a single partition, you have to do some work.

Do you need stylus? Go Venue. Buy the improve fixed stylus from Dell's website. If no, go Lenovo Miix 2 for better performance and battery life.

If active pen is key, then why put up with the shitty Synaptics pen? Asus Vivotab Note 8 has Wacom for cryin' out loud.