Final Thoughts and Rating
To wrap this up, let's start by dispelling a potential misconception; a cache drive shouldn't be viewed as a true replacement for a standalone SSD.
For experienced users building a new PC, it's hard to beat a SATA 6Gbps SSD as the system disk - for performance fiends it is the optimum configuration. But going the SSD route does introduce a few pitfalls; the cost-per-GB is high, it will often require a fresh OS installation (or a mass data migration) and it will typically provide a capacity measured in gigabytes, not terabytes.
An SSD cache, then, is a noteworthy alternative. True, it won't be as quick in all scenarios, but it partners with an affordable hard disk to bring down the cost-per-GB while maintaining high capacities. A cache requires no data migration - it's practically plug and play - and as far as single-component upgrades are concerned, we can think of few that are this easy to install and able to dramatically improve performance.
Evaluating the latter is a precarious task - you never quite know how well the cache will respond, but in our time with the Crucial Adrenaline, we've been suitably impressed. The DataPlex software is quick to take stock of usage patterns and our test PC felt instantly quicker. If there's a doubt, it's how much quicker will it be on a day-to-day basis? That depends largely on repetition - regularly-used programs will see the biggest speed gains - but it's important to note that the cache will never slow you down; it will only make things faster and in most cases, by a considerable amount.
Bottom line: We can't think of a good reason for a hard-disk-based Windows 7 PC not to have a solid-state cache. Its whole purpose is to provide a seamless upgrade without upsetting the hard-disk applecart, and it succeeds.
The Good
Makes your PC noticeably faster
Combines mechanical capacity with solid-state speed
Simple installation requires little tech know-how
Bundle includes 3.5in bracket and SATA cable
The Bad
Only compatible with Windows 7
Rarely as quick as a standalone SSD
HEXUS Rating
Crucial Adrenaline (50GB)
HEXUS Awards
Crucial Adrenaline (50GB)
HEXUS Where2Buy
The 50GB Crucial Adrenaline Cache SSD is available to purchase from ebuyer.
HEXUS Right2Reply
At HEXUS, we invite the companies whose products we test to comment on our articles. If any company representatives for the products reviewed choose to respond, we'll publish their commentary here verbatim.
