At the moment, the majority of computers don't use solid state hard drives, but more computers are gradually coming onto the market which use these types of drive (also called SSD's).

They are typically used in laptops which are intended for use in various extreme environments, but now are also starting to be used in some mainstream computers.

Most hard drives have a spinning platter with a read/write head that has to be positioned correctly for each read/write of data, and these moving parts can be more easily damaged than an SSD, and the data lost.

Why Pick Solid State Hard Drives?

* Less Noisy - Due to not having moving parts, there is nothing to make noise, as there is with physical hard drives.This is ideal for someone who is easily sidetracked by noise, when struggling to work.

* More immunity from vibration and shock - When notebook computers are jostled and constantly moved, this is problematic for conventional hard drives. SSD's are less prone to this problem.

* Speed - For accessing memory randomly, solid state drives are commonly speedier than standard hard drives owing to not having a moving head which has to move to a specific position. Conversely, when big amounts of data are read sequentially, the two types are more closely matched. Commonly, computers with SSD's can load programs more rapidly and boot more quickly than standard hard drives.

* Less vulnerable to wide temperature variations - Computers generally operate best when they are in locations that fall within specific temperature bounds. When it gets too hot, computers are susceptible to overheating and can become inoperable. SSD's can keep working well even in more extreme temperature conditions.

* Lighter - For lower capacity SSD's, the weight is lower than for mechanical hard drives so the equipment doesn't weigh as much either. That makes it easier to carry the computers with you. Also, the time the computer can run between battery recharges is usually longer.

Prior to purchasing a computer with a solid state hard drive, keep in mind that they are usually somewhat more costly at the moment. But as the technology keeps getting better, the price of these devices will probably continue to go down.

One more thing to consider is the limited life of SSD's. Even if they are not vulnerable to the type of deterioration that can wear down a standard hard drive, they cannot be written to forever. As a result, just as hard drives with moving parts, they can finally wear out.

In many cases, a laptop based on a solid state hard drive is an excellent option, because the prices are getting more attractive, and their memory sizes are constantly becoming larger.