HP Compaq 6200 Pro Microtower - SSD upgrade

[gvasilev]

Hi, I want to add SSD as a primary drive (OS and programs) to my HP Compaq 6200 Pro Microtower (and keep my HDD as secondary - for data storage). The specifics of my configuration are: i5-2400 processor, 16GB RAM, 500GB HDD, Win 10 OS (64-bit).

Can someone, please, help me with the most suitable SSD?

Product specifications state 80GB to 160GB SSD support - I want to add 120GB or 128GB SSD - are there any specifics I have look up for?

Any information will be helpful.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Hi:

I installed an Intel 730 240 GB SATA III SSD in my HP 8200 Elite CMT, which is basically the same model as yours except it has the Intel Q67 Express chipset.

That model SSD is built for business class desktops as it uses more voltage to run than one you would install in a notebook.

Here's the info on that model.  240 GB is the smallest size they come in.

http://ark.intel.com/products/81038/Intel-SSD-730-Series-240GB-2_5in-SATA-6Gbs-20nm-MLC

I also installed a Sandisk 240 GB SSD plus Solid State drive in my 8000 Elite CMT which works fine too.

The Sandisk can be used in both notebook and desktop PC's and is much less expensive that the Intel drive.

https://www.sandisk.com/home/ssd/ssd-plus

I also installed a 240 GB Intel 535 SSD in my HP business notebook.  You can also get those in the 120 GB size.

Some folks also have good success with the Samsung SSD's.

I think you would be fine getting any SSD that meets your needs and budget.

I prefer the Intel drives myself, but I was pleasantly suprised by the SanDisk 240 GB drive I got on sale for only $65 USD.

I was able to get an Intel 535 120 GB SSD on sale for $65 as well, but it has half the storage space.

The biggest problem you will face is mounting the drive.  You will need to get an adapter 3.5" to 2.5" to fit the drive in the drive bay.

I used a Rosewill Model # RDRD-11004 to install mine in the desktops and it only fit right in the lowest drive bay.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817997037

[gvasilev]

Thank you! I prefer the Intel brand as well and I think 120GB will fit my needs (the filled space will be 80GB, leaving about 40GB free on that drive - maybe 240GB will provide better ratio ocupied-free space, but I don't want to exceed the recomended by HP limit of 180GB drive) . The budget is no issue - quality and compatability are priorities for me.

Your information is very useful to me. I was just worried some specifications are important, but as I see your sugestions - SATA III is the only thing I have to look up for.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.

Your PC has the Intel Q65 Express chipset has one SATA III port which supports SATA III speeds.

http://www.guruht.com/2010/04/intel-q67q65-chipsets-details.html

I'll assume it is the one your primary HDD is connected to now.