I need to make a choice...

[syberscott]

I use my system for general stuff and gaming. I'm looking at two options to go with the 3.0 P4 I've ordered.
1. Use my existing 7200 rpm 2mb HD and get a 9800np
2. Get a SATA 10K 8mb WD and a 9600pro
I upgrade video cards about every 1.5 years, so would I be happy with the 9600pro for that long? I really like the idea of the fast drive. I'm also thinking that the HD might drop in price quite a bit when other manufacturers are making the 10K drives.

 

[Corporate Thug]

if u game a lot i would go for the 9800 np

 

[pillage2001]

I would go the 9800NP route if you were to be buying it now. The HDD industry is going through a change from 7200rpm drives to 10k. WD set the standard and other hdd manufacturers would follow suit. It mgiht take a while but if you're looking to keep a vid card for 1.5 years, the 9600pro won't last that long.

 

[cmdrdredd]

get 9800NP + and hold out for a new SATA standard (faster)

 

[chizow]

For games, there's really no question...grab the 9800np as the others suggested. Put it this way, you have the choice of higher frame rates and smoother gameplay 97% of your gaming experience opposed to slightly faster load times 3% of the time (and maybe less noticeable HDD thrashing in some games).

On top of that, mass storage devices are a cheaper upgrade than video cards and their prices and capacity/capabilities turn over faster. Every 6 months or so, you can basically pick up a faster drive with 2x as much capacity at your target price. Replacing/upgrading a $100 IDE HDD is a lot easier to swallow than replacing a $200+ video card IMO.

Chiz