How to Move OS from SSD to New SSD on Windows 11/10/8/7

If your Windows installation is on a smaller SSD, like a 128 GB SSD, you might find that your SSD fills up quickly with data. This can cause your computer to run slower and provide a worse user experience. In this case, you may want to buy a new, larger SSD and migrate your operating system to the new SSD. This article, brought to you by the hard drive recovery experts, will show you how to migrate your operating system from your old SSD to the new one.

Key points

• SSDs usually have less storage space than HDDs. So, you might need to buy a larger new SSD to install the OS and apps.
• Cloning is the best and easiest way to transfer the OS from the old SSD to the new one without losing data and reinstalling Windows.
• Windows 11/10/8/7 doesn't have built-in cloning software to help clone a hard drive, either HDD or SSD. For this, you'll need to use a third-party disk cloning software, like AOMEI Backupper Standard.

Preparing to Move Windows from an SSD to Another Disk

As mentioned above, cloning is the best and most efficient way to help you transfer operating system from one SSD to another, but you need to do some preparation work to enjoy a smooth and successful cloning process.

• Choose a new SSD. First, you need to purchase a new SSD with enough capacity. You can learn how much storage you need in the section below.
• Back up data on the old SSD. Although cloning is generally safe, it's best to use a free backup software like Todo Backup to back up your data before cloning, just in case something goes wrong.
• A SATA-to-USB cable. A SATA-to-USB cable or a hard drive enclosure will help connect both SSDs when cloning.
• Select a reliable disk cloning tool. Most importantly, you need to find a best SSD cloning software that's reliable and secure to help move your operating system. In this regard, the Disk Copy utility can meet your needs well.

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How to Migrate Your Operating System to a New SSD with a Disk Cloning Tool

With these preparations done, you can start to migrate the OS to the new SSD with a professional disk cloning software - AOMEI Backupper Standard.

This is a well-designed disk cloning software with a clean interface. It helps you clone systems, disks, partitions, and more. Additionally, it creates bootable disks and allows you to migrate Windows from HDD to SSD without data loss. Furthermore, it lets you clone hard drives with bad sectors. Here are some valuable features of this cloning software:

No matter what disk cloning feature you need – cloning, migration, upgrade, or transfer, the Disk Copy Tool has got you covered. So, download and use it to help you clone or replace your hard drive. Here are the steps to transfer an operating system to another drive using Disk Copy Tool.

Advance Notice:

• "Clone sectors by sector" requires the target disk to be the same size or larger than the source disk. Uncheck this if you want to clone a larger hard drive to a smaller one. • All data on the target disk will be erased. Please note this.

Step 1: To begin copying/Cloning an entire disk to another, select the disk in Disk Mode and click Next.

Step 2. Select another disk as the target disk.

Step 3. Check the disk layout of both source and target disks. You can choose to "Adapt to Target Disk", "Copy As Source Disk", or "Edit Disk Layout" to manage the disk layout of the target disk.

When a warning message appears, click “OK”.

• "Fit to disk" makes some changes to the target disk layout for optimal performance. • "Copy from source disk" leaves the target disk unmodified; its layout will be identical to the source disk. • "Edit disk layout" lets you manually adjust/move partitions on the target disk.

Check the “Perform this optimization if the target is an SSD” option for best performance from your SSD.

A warning message appears, telling you that you will lose your data. Confirm this by clicking OK, and then click Next.

Step 4: Click “Proceed” to actually carry out the task.

Upon completion of the cloning process, you'll need to replace the original drive with the cloned SSD and boot from it. If you're unable to boot from the cloned SSD, seek assistance from this article.

How much storage do I need for a new SSD?

It's always a good idea to know the storage capacity your computer's SSD requires. If your SSD has limited space, you might find yourself needing to replace it frequently, which can be complicated and unnecessary. Hence, you should be aware of your SSD's storage capacity as well as other parameters like read and write speeds and interface types such as M.2, NVMe, PCIe, SATA, and so on.

Here is a chart for reference.

For most people, a 250 GB SSD is enough for the operating system, programs, and future updates. If you're a content creator, designer, gamer, or power user, it's recommended to get a 500 GB to 1 TB SSD. Choose your brand and SSD type based on your budget and needs.

If you're a gamer wondering about storage space, you might refer to the following article.

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How much storage does a gaming PC need?

This article discusses how much storage a gaming PC should have and provides a tool to help you upgrade your computer's storage. Read more >>

In short

Have you found the answer on how to easily and quickly migrate your operating system to a new SSD? Look no further, because this article will reveal the best method to you, assisting in moving your operating system from an old SSD to a new one. This approach is called cloning, which enables you to transfer everything from one hard drive to another.

To clone a hard drive, you need to use professional cloning software like the Disk Copy Tool. Such a tool can help you easily move your operating system to another drive without any issues. If you encounter an error where the cloned hard drive shows wrong size, it can also come in handy. Just download and give it a try!

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving an Operating System to a New SSD

**How to transfer an operating system from one SSD to another SSD?** To move an operating system from one solid-state drive (SSD) to another, you can follow several methods. Here's a common approach using cloning software: 1. **Backup your data**: Before starting, make sure to back up all important files and data as a precaution. 2. **Choose a cloning tool**: Download and install a reliable disk cloning software such as Acronis True Image, Clonezilla, or AOMEI Backupper. 3. **Connect the new SSD**: Attach the new SSD to your computer. This can be done through an internal SATA slot, M.2 slot, or via a USB-to-SATA adapter. 4. **Run the cloning software**: Launch the cloning application and select the source drive (the SSD with the current operating system) as the source disk and the new SSD as the target disk. 5. **Cloning process**: Follow the software's instructions, typically there will be an option to "Clone" or "Copy." Choose a full clone to ensure all data and partitions are transferred. 6. **Wait for completion**: The cloning process may take some time, depending on the size and speed of both SSDs. Do not interrupt power or the process. 7. **Set BIOS/UEFI**: After cloning is complete, restart your computer and enter BIOS or UEFI settings. Set the new SSD as the primary boot device. 8. **Test the new SSD**: Save and exit the settings, and your computer should boot from the new SSD. Check that everything is functioning correctly, including the operating system loading, hardware drivers, and applications. Keep in mind that specific steps may vary slightly depending on the cloning software used, but the general process remains similar. Always refer to the software's instructions for optimal results.

To move an operating system from one SSD to another new SSD, cloning is the best way, but you need disk cloning software to help you, because Windows does not have a built-in cloning tool. Disk Copy can meet your needs well in this regard.

< strong >< strong >2. Can I move an SSD with an installed operating system and programs to another computer?

Yes, you can transfer an SSD with an operating system installed to another computer. You can plug your old SSD into an available SATA slot, and it will show up in your system as Drive D. It's crucial to back up any important files and data before transferring the SSD.

How can I clone my operating system to an SSD for free?

You can clone your operating system for free, as there are several free cloning tools available, such as Macrium Reflect Free and Clonezilla. However, these free cloning tools may not be as perfect as you'd like and often have limitations on cloning features.