Searching for a deal: The value of an SSD

I have written other blog posts on this website discussing how to select the right windows PC for your use.  Although focused on users of the Pro-Stitcher software, it applies in general.  A friend has once again asked to watch for 'a deal on a new laptop'. I gave my normal sermon on 'you must get an SSD.'  One trip to the Best Buy website flagged a unique opportunity to compare two very similar laptops offered at the same price.  The process actually took me over an hour and I wanted to document the process.

The deal...

Laptops will generally respond 30%-40% faster with an SSD.  I consider it a must as you will get a lot for the extra money.  But most often, they will give you a smaller 128G SSD that may not have enough space.  The operating system and programs can use half (60G) of the space.  If you have little data or are willing to learn the OneDrive cloud storage (or iDrive, Dropbox, others) and pay for extra online storage, this is enough space.  The lowest cost laptop with a 256G SSD on Best Buy was over $700.  Our example 128G SSD system is only $480.  Admittedly the more expensive one has a 2-in-1 flexible screen hinge and has a touch screen.  But $220 is a lot of money.

​Review these screen grabs to understand the items I have discussed... 

​What would PK do?

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