How to Upgrade to an M.2 SSD Without Reinstalling Windows

Linda updated on November 8, 2021 to Disk/Partition Clone | How-to Guides

When building or upgrading your PC, a crucial decision involves installing faster storage mediums for optimal performance. Traditionally, computer systems come equipped with standard 2.5-inch SATA drives. However, Solid State Drives (SSDs) have evolved to offer multiple options over time. One widely adopted variant globally is the M.2 SSD. If you're unfamiliar, an M.2 SSD (previously known as the Next Generation Form Factor or NGFF) is designed to provide high-performance storage in slim devices like tablets and laptops. M.2 SSDs are compatible with various protocols and applications, such as USB, SATA, Wi-Fi, and more. If your motherboard has the necessary connectors, you can use different types of M.2 SSDs. It's recommended to check your motherboard documentation before purchasing an M.2 SSD. In this article, we will discuss the advantages of using an M.2 SSD and your options for upgrading from an HDD or SSD to an M.2 SSD. Read on to the end of the article for a detailed guide.

Should I install the operating system on an M.2 SSD?

Almost all new computer systems and motherboards support M.2 SSDs, owing to their various advantages. Digital users have already shifted from traditional SSDs to M.2 SSDs. Some of the significant benefits of installing an OS on an M.2 SSD include:

Simplified Installation: One of the primary advantages of using an M.2 SSD as a boot drive is its ease of installation. You don't have to deal with piles of cables to make your motherboard and computer system compatible with the M.2 SSD. You can easily slot in the storage device and start using it immediately, without any complicated procedures.

FAST BOOT & HIGH PERFORMANCE: After installing the M.2 SSD, your computer system will boot up in seconds and perform much faster.

Bigger Storage Capacity: Compared to an mSATA card, an M.2 SSD offers a sleek and portable design along with greater storage capacity. Despite the larger storage, its compact design makes it more convenient to carry around to different locations.

Lower latency: The latest interface used by M.2 SSDs delivers lower latency and enhanced performance for a better OS experience.

How to Upgrade from HDD/SSD to M.2 SSD Without Reinstalling Windows (UTF-8)

Many users want to upgrade their HDD/SSD to an M.2 SSD after installing Windows on the old storage device. If you have set up your computer system but wish to use an M.2 SSD, you can clone the disk to directly use the M.2 SSD without reinstalling Windows. As disk cloning can be a challenging task, you can use a Disk Copy tool to assist you. With just 3-4 simple steps, you can easily clone your disk and start using the M.2 SSD without reinstalling Windows. Simply download the software, select the source disk and target disk, and you're good to go. The tool also offers various disk layout options. Some features of the Disk Copy tool include:

Step 1: Select the HDD you want to clone under "Disk Mode."

Step 2: Choose your SSD as the destination.

A warning will pop up, telling you that the data on your SSD will be erased. If you don't have any important data on your target disk, click “OK” to proceed.

Step 3: Edit the disk layout if needed, and click “Continue” to proceed.

Since the target is an SSD, check the box for “If the target is an SSD, please check this option.”

Step 4: Wait for the process to complete.

Conclusions

You can directly install the operating system on the M.2 SSD, or upgrade your old HDD/SSD to an M.2 SSD. However, it's recommended to check the compatibility of your motherboard with the M.2 SSD before purchasing. Given that storage devices tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, it's crucial to ensure all necessary drivers and technical support are in place for a smooth setup process.