How to Change the Boot Drive in Windows 10 [Updated for 2024]

There might be times when, for one reason or another, we might need to change the boot drive. However, not every user is aware of how to change the boot drive in Windows 10. If you're a beginner and it's your first time changing the boot drive of your computer system, worry not. This guide will help you change the boot drive using recovery options and BIOS settings.

Before we proceed, let's first help you understand what a boot drive is and the most common reasons for replacing it.

Read More: How to Change the Primary Hard Drive in Windows 10 with Ease

What is a boot drive?

A boot drive is a storage device that contains the computer's operating system. It is used to start up a computer in the form of a CD-ROM drive, USB flash drive, floppy disk drive, or DVD drive. A hard disk drive is the most common type of boot drive.

An operating system (OS) comes pre-installed on new computers and can boot directly. However, older computers might require a hard drive replacement for added storage or functionality. But a computer won't start unless the hard drive contains the necessary boot files. You may need to change the boot drive in Windows for the following reasons:

• Windows Installation: If you want to install a new operating system on a formatted drive, you need to make it bootable. You must copy the Windows installer to the disk and select it as the boot drive to initiate the setup process.
• Upgrade from HDD to SSD: If you plan to boost your computer/laptop's performance with a new SSD, you'll need to move the boot drive to the SSD.
• Need a Recovery Drive: If your hard disk is damaged or failing, you can use a new disk to recover data with Windows tools. This will help you restart your computer when it fails to boot. For this, you need to change the recovery drive so your computer can boot without losing data.
• Run Bootable Antivirus Software: When powerful malware or viruses attack your system and prevent you from using the Windows OS and other programs, the only solution is to run a bootable antivirus software from a hard disk or USB drive.

Regardless of the reason for the change, we're here to help you through it. Follow the methods and steps below to change the boot drive in Windows 10.

How do I change the boot drive on Windows 10?

As mentioned earlier, there are three straightforward ways to change the boot drive. One is by using specialized boot utilities, another is through Advanced Options, and System Configuration. Follow the step-by-step guide for the given method.

1. Method 1: Change the Boot Drive with a Third-Party Tool
2. Method 2: Change the Boot Drive via Advanced Options
3. Method 3: Change the Boot Drive via System Configuration

Method 1: Change the Boot Drive with a Third-Party Tool

If you're not comfortable with the Windows process, you can use a third-party smart tool like the Partition Master Professional to easily change the boot drive in UEFI. The utility provides a simple and quick method, making it easy to learn how to change the boot drive in Windows 10, even if you're a beginner.

Step 1: Launch AOMEI Partition Assistant on your computer and then go to “Toolbox” and click “Bootable Media Builder”.

Step 2: Go to the UEFI Items tab and change the boot order by dragging the drive to the first position.

Click “Save” to apply the changes, and your operating system will next boot from the new hard drive.

Note: If you click Restart after installing the drive, the operating system will boot from that disk once the next time.

Moreover, as an excellent Windows boot repair tool, AOMEI Partition Assistant also offers some additional advanced features, such as fixing the boot drive and resolving the blue screen issue on your computer. Download it and keep it at hand in case you encounter any errors.

Method 2: Change the Boot Drive through Advanced Options

The easiest way is to enter your computer's UEFI firmware through Advanced Options and change the boot drive there. Here's how:

Step 1: Click the gear icon on the left side of the Windows screen to open Settings.

Step 2: Click on “Update & Security.”

Step 3: From the left menu, select “Recovery,” then click “Restart now.”

Step 4: Choose “Troubleshoot,” then click “Advanced options.”

Click "Advanced options".

Finally, select “UEFI Firmware Settings” to change them.

Step 6: Your computer will restart, and you should be taken to the firmware setup screen.

Step 7. Go to the “Boot” tab and select the boot drive you want from the list, then place it at the top.

Note: Use the arrow keys or the + and - buttons to change the boot order.

Step 8: Press the F10 key to select Save and Exit.

Method 3: Change the Boot Drive through System Configuration

You can also change your boot drive using the diskpart command in System Configuration. Use BIOS settings or UEFI firmware by pressing any compatible Function key (from F1 to F12).

Note: Different laptops/computers use different keys to enter BIOS. Restart your computer, access the BIOS settings, and follow these steps:

Step 1 Press the appropriate function key to enter the BIOS setup program.

Step 2: Press the Enter key to access the Boot sub-menu.

Press Enter to enter the “Boot” submenu:

Note: All BIOS utilities will look slightly different, but the menu settings are usually listed horizontally. At the top of the screen will be menu options, in the middle will be your hardware options, and at the bottom will be your BIOS modification options.

Step 3. To change the boot order and select a drive, use the arrow keys to highlight the drive and move it to the top of the list. Use the + and - keys to move devices up or down.

Please select the desired boot drive in the BIOS settings.

4. Change the boot order as necessary, then press F10 and select “Save and Exit.”

Step 5: Select “Yes” to confirm the change and restart your computer.

Conclusions

Changing the boot drive lets you enjoy the full potential and optimal performance of your computer system. If you haven't gone through this process yet, don't worry. That's why we've provided you with essential information on how to change the boot drive in Windows 10. Simply choose any of the methods above and follow each step correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Changing the Boot Drive in Windows 10

For more information on how to change the boot drive in Windows 10, refer to the FAQ section.

1. Why can't I boot from my SSD?

Due to incorrect configuration of the boot sequence in the BIOS utility, you are unable to boot from your SSD. Ensure the SSD is connected and restart your computer. Press the appropriate function key during startup to access the BIOS menu. Use the arrow keys to navigate, select the SSD, and then press F10 to save and exit.

2. How do I fix the “No Bootable Device” error?

Reconnect the device and restart your computer. After it boots up, press the relevant key (such as Esc, Del, or F1-F12) to open the BIOS settings. Go to the "Boot" tab and change the boot order. Use the arrow keys to move the hard drive to the top of the list.

A: Must the boot drive be Drive C?

Typically, computer systems use the C drive as the boot drive, but you can change the boot drive in the BIOS settings.