Macbook Pro Early 2011: Should I Update my computer to an SSD/SSHD or my Ram?

[rosejoey]

I have a early 2011 macbook pro, and I’ve been meaning to get an upgrade. I’m on a strict budget and I can only spend $100-140 dollars or less.

Should I update my Ram to 8/16gb or get a 250GB SSD to replace my HD? OR should i buy a 500gb SSHD w/ an update to 8gb of ram? (If so suggestions on SSHD’s?) I will only be using this computer for 3 more years so I definetly don’t want to spend extensive money. Based on what I am using my computer for (below), what do you guys think I should do? Is there a way I can update both my Ram and SSD under my budget? Are the specs on my computer (below) good enough for my usage, if I want no lagging/speed and good space for lots of files on my computer? Let me know! Thanks!

What I use my computer for:

- Doing research for Model United Nations

- Multiple tabs open (10+ at times)

- Want speed

- Taking notes on many things (I will be holding the class office position of secretary as well as the same position in my MUN club.)

- Organizing multiple things

- Planning budgets on excel (Plus other work that Treasurers do)

- Download a few files

- Minor editing through iMovie

- Usage in competitions (Speech and Debate/Model UN)

- Want no lagging to ensure no complications during competition

- Downloading of large dropbox file

- School work

- (Maybe) Art and a lil bit of graphic design idk

Specs:

2.3 GHz Intel Core i5

4 GB 1333 MHz DDR3

Macintosh HD

 

[mrmez]

Definitely SSD.

 

[rosejoey]

Also, I am considering maybe an 500gb SSHD due to its cheap price. And then upgrading my ram to 8gb. What do you guys think about that? any suggestions for SSHD’s? (Under $60)

 

[g.syder]

I have an early 2011 macbook pro, just like you. I have an SSD and 8GB ram, it's made sooo much difference. Go and do it asap. You won't regret it, it'll be better than new.
I can't suggest what you should buy, seeing as I don't know where you are. I'm in New Zealand, you're probably not, so prices will not be the same.

 

[fagetti]

4gb ram is very limited, go 8gb and if you buy used ram remember to check / ask that it works with macbook pro. Some ram sticks wont work with apple. Also you should go with SSD since your laptop supports sata3 6gb/s which is faster than any sshd. 120gb would be best size for update if your on budget but i dont know if that is too much. You can also turn your DVD bay into hdd/ssd slot if you want to save your old HDD for extra capacity.