I thought about starting a new thread for this, but it's somewhat on topic. Long story short, SSDs are an incredible addition to ANY computer and whether you're upgrading a few parts or doing a complete system build, I would highly recommend getting one.
I'm on the brink of a system refresh going from a C2D E8400 to an Ivy Bridge i5-3570K. I will be reusing my GPU, PSU, SSD, and 2GB HDD for the new system so I'm in the process of freeing up those drives. I have a 320GB WD Caviar Blue sitting in my case that I had the OS on before purchasing my SSD in October 2011. I have since switched back to this hdd for the short interim of preparation and to secure erase my SSD for good measure.
What a differenceWhen I installed my SSD I was elated with how fast and responsive it made my computer feel. I was like a giddy school boy trying to keep up with program installs and marveling at how quickly everything started up. It was a night and day difference for me, and that was using SATA II. Fast forward a few weeks and I had quickly become accustomed to my "new lifestyle" and my inital excitement had faded, but was/am still recommending SSDs to everyone.
Yesterday, I switched back to my hdd and it was TERRIBLE. Startup took 2-3x longer as did program loads, not to mention the constant clickidy click of the hdd seeking (annoying). It's a classic example of the phrase "you don't appreciate what you have until it's gone." It was refreshed reminder of how I will never go back to hdd's again. So, if anyone reads this that is contemplating purchasing a SSD at all, JUST DO IT. You can get a
120GB SSD for $100 after MIR these days which is dirt cheap. (and even $84 if you get the newegg coupons for 15% off OCZ drives periodically...not saying that you have to buy an OCZ SSD, but they are the cheapest right now) Sure, paying $180 for my SSD back in October makes me a little jealous that prices have dropped as much as they have, but I still don't regret my purchase.
Well that's the end of my rant, hopefully it helps/motivates somebody.