Help me pick an SSD...

Hi everyone,

I decided I'd like to take the plunge into the SSD world when I install Windows 7, which should be in early November, so I'm looking now at which one to buy. I started doing some research, but only enough to realize that I'm not sure the decision I'm going to make is the right one.

Here's what I'm looking for:
- At least 64GB
- TRIM support (assuming my controller supports it, see below)
- Less than $250

I have a PC with an Intel G33 Express chipset (which I believe includes a ICH9R SATA controller onboard). Not the newest chipset, so I'm not sure about TRIM support.

I've read good things about the Intel X-25M series in this price range. I was looking specifically at this one.

Is this a good choice? Any better recommendations? I don't really have any brand loyalty, so I'm open to any suggestions.

Thanks!!!

http://www.mwave.com/mwave/skusearch...iteria=BA32332

The one you linked is G1, you don't want that one, you want the G2 in my link. Best SSD for $250 bar none.

What he said. ^^ Intel X25-M G2 (Not G1)

Alright, cool. Thanks for the link too, that looks like a good price (compared to NewEgg).

You think I'll have any compatibility issues with my mobo/controller?

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Originally Posted by BlueScreenOfTOM

You think I'll have any compatibility issues with my mobo/controller?

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No.

I just ordered one from Mwave yesterday and its already shipped, so you shouldn't have any issues.

Edit: Haha, nvm, looks like they're $289.00 at Mwave now too. Glad I ordered mine when I did.

I've been trying to get a pair of 80GB G2s for awhile now. People either don't have them in stock or want way too much for them. It's even worse with the 160GB drives.

NCIXUS is pretty good with the 160GB though:

http://www.ncixus.com/products/41763...160G2C1/Intel/

Not quite MSRP but way better than the $600+ most people want.

Crap, that's what I get for waiting. It's out of stock most places too... Newegg has it for $289 and free shipping, but OOS... they expect it back in stock on 10/28. I put in an auto-notify request and will look for better deals between now and then... if I can find a better price before then, I'll buy it, otherwise I'll go with Newegg. I'm not getting Windows 7 until November 4th anyways, so I don't really need it until then...

Just an update. I purchased the Intel G2 from Newegg last week. It got here today. Interestingly, in my RSS feeds today I saw this... I'm assuming I need to apply this update? Preferrably BEFORE I install Win7?

No, I wouldn't update it yet. Its having some issues. Just wait it out until Intel fixes the firmware imo.

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Originally Posted by BlueScreenOfTOM

Just an update. I purchased the Intel G2 from Newegg last week. It got here today. Interestingly, in my RSS feeds today I saw this... I'm assuming I need to apply this update? Preferrably BEFORE I install Win7?

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You got one at a good time, that firmware update bricked a bunch of drives so there will be a shortage for RMAs. The drive works great without any updates.

This is true... and you are correct, I installed everything and it seems to be working great, nice and fast. However, I do want a firmware upgrade sooner or later to get TRIM support... also, it would be nice to have the Intel toolbox to monitor drive health and such. So I'm hoping Intel doesn't take too long.

For those following this, Intel has released this statement which indicates that they expect to have the "fixed" firmware/software for the X25-M G2 available by the end of November.

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Originally Posted by OpStar

No, I wouldn't update it yet. Its having some issues. Just wait it out until Intel fixes the firmware imo.

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UPDATE: New firmware was released today. Enables TRIM, but without the nasty side effects.

Ya I updated mine this morning w/o issue.