SuppressLint by Linda on November 5, 2021 | Updated to Disk/Partition Clone | User Guide

Overview of Disk Cloning

Data loss is a concern for many of us since most of our activities depend on computers and drives. The likelihood of sensitive information being lost or stolen increases every year, and it would be terrible if we couldn't retrieve the stored information from these devices. Regardless of how frequently you use your computer, the loss of data that can't be restored can be devastating. To ensure your files have a valid backup strategy, disk cloning is your best bet.

Disk cloning or drive cloning transfers almost all the information from one hard drive to another. Disk cloning lets you create an exact copy of a hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD) without losing any data. With a cloned drive, you can restore every piece of data.

If your primary drive fails or goes missing, you can easily replace it with the cloned external drive. You'll have peace of mind knowing your information is protected from external threats and system crashes.

However, Windows doesn't have a built-in disk cloning feature. It's recommended that you use third-party software. This article will introduce two recommended programs you can use to clone your system drive.

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Macrium Reflect vs Samsung Data Migration Comparison

Windows doesn't have a built-in cloning feature, so if you want to clone your computer's hard drive, you'll need a third-party tool. We'll look at two of the most recommended programs that you can use to create the backup your data needs.

Macrium Reflect is the name of a backup and imaging software. Its translation in Chinese can be "Macrium Reflection" or "Macrium Imaging."

Macrium Reflect is a reliable data backup solution software for both personal and commercial use. It is globally trusted for safeguarding data, documents, and operating systems. The software employs advanced disk cloning technology that enables you to transfer data from one disk to another.

Macrium Reflect enables users to clone multiple disks instantly, with their contents organized into convenient folders for easy file retrieval. It ensures your devices are protected from any malware, boasts a user-friendly interface, and allows you to schedule backups according to your needs.

Macrium Reflect's pricing is based on users' needs. For personal use, a single-user license costs $69.95, while multiple users are $139.95. For commercial use, the price varies depending on the plan. The Workstation plan is priced at $608, and the Essentials plan costs $489. However, Macrium Reflect offers a 30-day free trial that includes many unique features, allowing users to experience its capabilities before committing.

Macrium Reflect

Samsung Data Migration

Samsung Data Migration is designed to help users migrate their data – including the current operating system, user data and application software – seamlessly and securely from their HDD to a new Samsung SSD.

Samsung Data Migration is a tool developed by Samsung for its SSD lines, such as the 470 series, 830 series, and 840 series. This software is not compatible with SSDs from other manufacturers and only supports the Windows operating systems listed in the user manual. It will work only if the source disk has an operating system installed. Therefore, if your source disk does not have an operating system, the Samsung Data Migration software will not function properly.

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Can Samsung Data Migration Clone Non-Samsung SSD?

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Disk cloning software - Disk duplication tool

Both Macrium Reflect and Samsung Data Migration have their limitations. You need to spend time learning how to clone with Macrium Reflect, and Samsung Data Migration only works on specific Samsung SSDs. Is there any specific disk cloning software? Yes, here we recommend the Disk Copy Tool. It's specifically designed for disk cloning with a straightforward interface. Even if you're a beginner, you can get the hang of it quickly. Unlike Samsung Data Migration, the Disk Copy Tool supports all brands of HDDs and SSDs. You can use this tool freely and easily, regardless of your hard drive brand.

Note: Make sure you use a disk cloning utility for a smooth disk copy or cloning process.

Step 1. Download, install, and run the Disk Copy utility on your computer.
Click on Disk Mode, select the source disk that you want to copy or clone, and then click Next to proceed.

Note: If you want to copy or clone the source disk sector by sector, the target disk should be the same size as the source disk, or even larger.

Select the source disk to clone

Step 2: Select the target disk to which you wish to clone/copy your old disk, then click "Next" to proceed. If prompted to erase data from the target disk, click "OK" to confirm.

Select the destination disk to clone or copy

Step 3: Check and edit the disk layout, choosing between "Autofit on disk," "Match source," or "Edit disk layout." It's recommended that you select "Autofit on disk."

The Copy Source option copies the partition layout from the source disk to the target disk.
Editing the disk layout allows you to manually adjust or move partitions on the target disk.

If your target disk is an SSD, remember to check the box next to “If target disk is SSD, please check this option.”

Click Continue to start cloning the disk or copying the disk right away.

Finish copying or cloning the disk to a new one.

Final Thoughts

Disk cloning is the best way to ensure peace of mind, knowing that all the data on your computer has been successfully backed up and can be restored at any time. Now, you just need to choose the suitable software to perform the cloning process. We've listed two programs that you can use for this; feel free to pick one according to your needs and proceed with cloning your hard drive to the new SSD.