The solid state hard drive uses chips to store the information which is accessible much faster for several reasons. First, it doesn't need to wait for the information to spin by. Second, it doesn't have to wait for the rotor to check the index, and last, it doesn't have to wait for the rotor position to line up with the information giving you the information you requested.
The SSD actually works much more like RAM to store information with one difference. When you turn the power off, RAM loses any stored information. The SSD will not. It will continue to store information like a standard hard drive, with or without power.
You will have to have a hard drive, it can be either an SSD or conventional hard drive. If you choose a smaller SSD, it might be a good idea to get a normal hard drive for additional storage as SSD's are usually too small for everything.
Samsung 840 Pro Series MZ-7PD256BW 256GB - This drive is simply fast. If you have never experienced a SSD, this will knock your socks off.
Samsung 840 Pro Series MZ-7PD128BW 128GB - Still the same model of drive, but a little smaller, a little slower but at a much better price.
TIP! If you really just want all kinds of fast, buy 2 solid state drives and set them up as a raid.
To pick a SSD hard drive, it's important that you check benchmarks and performance first. Once you've found some solid benchmarks as a starting point, try to find one with a decent price point, something that works with your budget. Next, it's time for a more in depth analysis. We need to check that it is reliable by reading reviews and comparing real world benchmarks if you can find them.
Here again, I'm not brand specific, I just want fast reliable for cheap. The only thing you really need to be careful with here is the new technology. Something that is cutting edge fast usually has a drawback of reliability in the short term at least until all of the kinks are worked out.