You may change the directory to a HDD if you wish by using the switch "example" without brackets [-datadir=E:\Bitcoin].
Create a shortcut of the btc client, right click on the new shortcut, click properties, at the end of the target field, add -datadir=DIRECTORY , hit apply, ok.
In that directory you have chosen, copy the contents that are in the original directory over to your new directory.
Double click the shortcut. All should be well, no more ssd writes and saves room for trim/garbage collection. Save your nands.
Hey, thx lots! I had the exact same problem. No more.
Someone should suggest this option to Gavin to be implemented by default into the client.
Cheers