7200 rpm worth it, upgrade?

[Xeno]

I'm patiently awaiting(yeah right) my 2.2 MBP. I'm still considering switching the order to a Macbook because the difference might not be that big..but probably not. One of the things I was going back and forth about at the time of ordering was upgrading from the standard 120GB to the 160GB 7200 rpm HDD. I really wanted the 7200, but I thought it would take longer, and I wasn't sure if I needed it. I suppose I could still change my order, but I really need it by a certain day this month, because I'm going on a long trip. There's still a chance I might not even get it by then, so I don't want to prolong it any longer than I need to. Anyway, what I'm wondering is; is it worth it and is it possible to bring it to an Apple retail store and get it upgraded to that very 7200 model? I don't want to voice my warranty doing it on my own , and I'd just feel more comfortable knowing Apple was doing it. I doubt I'm going to use all of the space, but extra space is always good. And apparently the 7200 RPM helps a bit? I'm planning on using as my primary computer for the next few years at least, so I figure it's worth it. Am I right? Thanks.

 

[mr_matalino]

I'm patiently awaiting(yeah right) my 2.2 MBP. I'm still considering switching the order to a Macbook because the difference might not be that big..but probably not. One of the things I was going back and forth about at the time of ordering was upgrading from the standard 120GB to the 160GB 7200 rpm HDD. I really wanted the 7200, but I thought it would take longer, and I wasn't sure if I needed it. I suppose I could still change my order, but I really need it by a certain day this month, because I'm going on a long trip. There's still a chance I might not even get it by then, so I don't want to prolong it any longer than I need too. Anyway, what I'm wondering is; is it worth it and is it possible to bring it to an Apple retail store and get it upgraded to that very 7200 model? I don't want to voice my warranty doing it on my own , and I'd just feel more comfortable knowing Apple was doing it. I doubt I'm going to use all of the space, but extra space is always good. And apparently the 7200 RPM helps a bit? I'm planning on using as my primary computer for the next few years at least, so I figure it's worth it. Am I right? Thanks.

There are many threads about the 7200 HD. Try searching the forms for it. As for upgrading, you can take it to an Apple authorized retailer/servicer and have them do it (and keep your warranty) for a fee.

 

[ale500]

go external

Difference between 5400 and 7200 rpm disks exist, and is sort of noticeable, but you will not get 2x or so performance, more in the 10 to 20%. You can always get extra space in an external enclosure, fw800 gives you quite a boost over usb or fw400. A 250 GB 5400 will probably offset the performace of the 7200 with some extra space.

AFAIK, you can get it upgraded at an apple store or authorized retailer/shop.

 

[harmonica01]

There are many threads about the 7200 HD. Try searching the forms for it. As for upgrading, you can take it to an Apple authorized retailer/servicer and have them do it (and keep your warranty) for a fee.

the apple genius bar here in Houston Galleria today said this is false information that has somehow gotten around on the net.

 

[Shorties]

A 250 GB 5400 will probably offset the performace of the 7200 with some extra space.

Well the 250GB that apple offers is a 4200 RPM

the apple genius bar here in Houston Galleria today said this is false information that has somehow gotten around on the net.

No No No, they won’t do it, take it to an authorized repair place not the Apple Store. The authorized repair places use your same warranty but they usually are more open on what they will do for you.

 

[mr_matalino]

the apple genius bar here in Houston Galleria today said this is false information that has somehow gotten around on the net.

I'm not sure how? I had mine upgraded a few years ago from an authorized retailer and kept my warranty (letter of cert).

 

[sealab2021]

Don't forget that a 7200RPM drive has additional heat and power requirements.

 

[Revolutionary]

Well the 250GB that apple offers is a 4200 RPM

Right. I just picked up a Western Digital Passport from Best Buy for $170, it was the 250GB Western Digital 2.5" SATA drive at 5400 RPM. Got it home, and swapped my 7200RPM 160GB drive in my 2.4 Ghz 17" MBP and popped the 250GB in. No noticeable speed difference, and 90GB more space. It's a great drive.

 

[sailomb]

I got the passport drive also

I also got the WD passport 250Gb drive. I got mine form Circuit City for $170. The drive is really quiet, pretty quick too.

 

[Whiteapple]

I'll share my point of view on this thread.

I think one who considers the 160GB 7200rpm needs to consider the even better Hitachi 7k200 (200GB 7200rpm). It's the best drive available to date.

I'm in Switzerland. I know I'll buy the base MBP 2.2GHZ and a 7k200 off eBay, and then take it to what we call a "Mac Repair Center" (they don't sell stuff, only repair), and they'll stick it in for me for 60 bucks, and I keep my warranty.

We don't have Apple Stores here. Only resellers (which can do the same job for 200 bucks...!!!!)


There, hope that helps.