For a high-performance gaming rig, a fast SATA III solid-state drive (SSD) is essential for significantly improved boot times and overall system performance compared to traditional hard drives. A 120GB SSD is generally sufficient for installing Windows 8 and a couple of games, while a secondary hard drive can be used for data storage. Recommended SSD options include the Crucial M4 and Samsung 840, with the latter being preferable if available at a similar price to the Samsung 830. While some users have had positive experiences with newer OCZ drives, there are concerns about their historically high failure rates. A capacity of 128GB is adequate for users who manage their data carefully, but a 256GB drive is advisable for those who may not be as disciplined with file storage. Brands like Intel, Samsung, and Crucial are favored for their reliability and performance.