What is a Solid State Drive, and do I need one?

I’m in the market for a new Lappy, since my dinosaur bit the dust a few weeks ago. I’ll admit, while I was once pretty hip to techie stuff, I’ve fallen off the radar in recent years.

I’m looking into a “jump-off” computer – that is, something that will hold me over until I can put down a real investment on a new machine. Looking to spend less than $500. Primary uses will be HD video streaming, surfing, word processing and some moderate photo-editing. Mostly making merch images for my hubby’s band.

A few I’m looking at advertise a 32 gig Solid State Drive. Most others mention nothing about Solid State anything. What is it, what does it do, and do I want one?