In a somewhat suprising move after the success of it's 80GB and 160GB XM-25 solid-state drives - Intel released a smaller capacity version to fill a gap at the low end. The Intel 40 GB X25V Value SATA II Solid State Drive may be a fine MacBook or Mac mini upgrade for those with modest needs. Unlike competitors with SSDs in the 30-32GB or 60-64GB range, Intel's SSD architecture started with an 80 Gigabyte drive, then 160, now down to 40 GB to shore up the low end. This is also a G2 - Second Generation drive with improved firmware - all in all an affordable choice for those who aren't data pigs with videos and tons of music clogging up thier hard drives. With it's SATA II interface, it's compatible with all Serial-ATA based Mac computers - whether with older SATA I - or more recent SATA II controller chips.

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Although limited to three models: The MacBook Air, the Unibody MacBook and MacBook Pro line - the Apple Store Online now offers 128GB and 256GB SATA SSD drives as a build-to-order option. Prices are rather steep to say the least.

And these prices are inconsistent: Depending on exactly which Mac and which model - Build-To-Order at the Apple Store charges as little as $300 to choose a 128GB SSD to as much as $825 to add a 256GB flash drive. On higher-end Macs, Apple has more leeway in margins to alter prices on a per-Mac basis. On lower-end models, the cost of the SSD is higher. On higher end models the same size SSD option is priced lower. Go figure.

For some, the peace of mind, and value right out of the box may make that included SSD option worth it. It's easy to say Apple's solid-state storage upgrade prices are anywhere from high to outright outrageous. But when time is money - and given how dramatically faster SSD drives can make your Mac - a flash drive option may pay for itself... in no time flat

Tags: macbook air ssd, macbook ssd, macbook pro ssd