Windows 7 - Buying New Hard Drive

bigmck · 01-14-2012

I currently have a 160 GB HD for my OS and Docs. I am going to get a 500 GB HD and replace it. I need to keep the price under $100 so a SSD is out of the question. What specs do I need to look for to insure I get the fastest drive for the buck. Also I would like to find out the specs on my current 160 GB. It was in the computer when I purchased it so I do not have a manual. How can I find out the specs? Thanks,

zigzag3143 · 01-14-2012

Speed it rotates (5400, or 7200)

Cache (the bigger the better)

IDE, or EIDE (if internal), ATA, or sata.

If external USB 2 or 3, or firewire.

I would also check out what their warranty is.

mickey megabyte · 01-14-2012

you should be able to find your hdd model in device manager - then you can google for its specs.

probably the most important thing to look for is the speed - you want 7200 rpm

sata should be quicker, and makes life easier with much neater cabling, so long as your mobo supports it - it looks like your board has two sata slots - are they used at present?

also do bear in mind that hdd prices are still pretty high following last year's floods in thailand - prices are slowly starting to come back down, i believe.

Britton30 · 01-14-2012

From Newegg Newegg.com - Computer Hardware, Hard Drives, Internal Hard Drives, 400GB - 900GB, SATA 3.0Gb/s, 500GB
Only two under $100 and one is recertified.

Their IDE drives.
Newegg.com - Computer Hardware, Hard Drives, Internal Hard Drives, IDE Ultra ATA133 / ATA-7
You may find a SATA III (6Gb/sec) slightly less.
I'd recommend
7200RPM
SATA II or SATA III
16MB or more cache

GeneO · 01-14-2012

Not a good time to need a new hard drive

Neww egg doesn't have the greatest prices right now. Here is my recommendation from Amazon.

WD Blue - good all around performer. $89:

http://www.amazon.com/Western-Digita.../dp/B00461G3MS

500GB black, $108:

Amazon.com: Western Digital Caviar Black 500 GB SATA III 7200 RPM 32 MB Cache Internal Desktop Hard Drive Bulk/OEM - WD5002AALX: Computers & Accessories

These are better prices than newegg.

Britton30 · 01-14-2012

Good ones Gene. I have a buddy with a WD Black 1TB and he said it really runs fast. I believe his has 64MB cache which may help out.
Jim, I jope you aren't completely confused yet.

Nemix77 · 01-15-2012

This Hybrid SSD, usually can be found on sale for $99:

Newegg.ca - seagate xt

You'll need a 3.5" HDD bracket to mount the hard drive and it should be partitioned and used as you main drive for OS and docs.

bigmck · 01-15-2012

Thank you all for the info. That helps a lot. The prices are still up there I see. I had bought 500 GB about two years ago for $54. No prices near that now I see. One of you said this is a bad time to need a new HD. Since I have a birthday in two months and Mom has more money that I do, I think I will through a few hints around.

Thanks again.

1Bowtie · 01-15-2012

Quote: Originally Posted by bigmck

Thank you all for the info. That helps a lot. The prices are still up there I see. I had bought 500 GB about two years ago for $54. No prices near that now I see. One of you said this is a bad time to need a new HD. Since I have a birthday in two months and Mom has more money that I do, I think I will through a few hints around.

Thanks again.

You can't go wrong with WD Black 500 7200rpm I have 3 and have never had any problems, they also carry a 5 year warranty best in the business and 32 mb cache. Bought the last one about 1 year ago $59 but i see they have really jumped in price.

Windows 7 - Buying New Hard Drive

Buying New Hard Drive problems?