Hi there.

I am looking for a new 500GB (or 640GB) hard-drive to accompany my new build. It is going to be a system drive, and it will store my OS, applications, and games. I want it to be silent, and a good performer as well. Should I go with a 7200RPM one? I know 5400RPM would be quieter - and cooler; however, I am concerned that it will be too slow.

I was thinking about the new Seagate 7200.12 hard-drives, with 500 gigabytes per platter; other options I had in mind are Samsung's EcoGreen or F1 line, and also WD Caviar Green.

Help would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

I am using 5400 rpm as main disk and I don't see or feel any difference with 7200 rpm model, except they run cooler and are quieter. I am sure that in anyday usage and gaming you don't see nor feel difference compeared 7200 rpm model.

I am sure that unless you do some heavy duty Graphics, music edition or similar 5400 rpm HDD's are more than enough fast.

I think you can find Ku Klux Klan keeping memorial speak in Nation of Islam for the Memory of Malcom X more likely that you actually need 7200 rpm HDD over 5400 rpm one in every day regular use.