How to Move Files from HDD to SSD on Windows 11( 2 Ways)

Why move files from HDD to SSD on Windows 11?

While HDDs served us well, their speed limitations can create a bottleneck in the era of Windows 11's high-performance expectations. That’s way users continue searching for how to move files from HDD to SSD Windows 11. First let’s find out the lag in HDDs:

1. Slow Read/Write Speeds: HDDs have mechanical parts, leading to slower data access compared to lightning-fast SSDs.

2. Boot Time Delays: Windows 11 thrives on quick boots; HDDs might struggle to keep up, causing delays.

3. Multitasking Limitations: Running multiple applications simultaneously can strain an HDD's performance.

So switching HDDs to SSDs enable users to benefit some settings, then in the next section, I will show you 2 ways to addresshow to move files from HDD to SSD Windows 10/11.

How to move files from HDD to SSD on Windows 11/10

Way 1. Move files via Copy-Paste feature

If you're thinking about transferring data from an HDD to an SSD, you might consider using the Copy and Paste function in Windows. It's a straightforward way to move files between different disks. Just find the file you want to transfer, right-click, and select Copy or Cut. Then, navigate to the SSD partition, right-click in an empty space, and select Paste.

However, there are some things to keep in mind when using this feature. Transferring regular files can become tedious and time-consuming, especially if they're located in different directories on the partition. And when it comes to transferring system or program files, you might encounter issues where they don't function properly after being transferred to the SSD.

This method is best suited for transferring a small amount of data. If you're dealing with a large amount of data or you want to transfer everything, including the operating system and system files, from the HDD to the SSD, you might want to consider the next method: disk cloning with cloning software. It's a faster way to handle mass data transfers.

Way 2. Move files via Professional tool-AOMEI Backupper

When you're dealing with large amounts of data, disk cloning is much more convenient compared to using the Copy and Paste function. With disk cloning, you can quickly transfer everything from one drive to another with ease, like ‘how to move files from SSD to HDD Windows 11’. Using professional and reliable cloning software like AOMEI Backupper Professional can greatly simplify the process. Here are some advantages of using AOMEI Backupper Professional:

Here's a step-by-step guide to transferring data from HDD to SSD using AOMEI Backupper Professional:

Preparation:

• Connect your target SSD to your computer and ensure it's recognized. If you're transferring data to a laptop SSD, you may need a SATA to USB adapter.
• Back up any important files beforehand, as the data on the target disk will be erased during cloning.
• Download and install AOMEI Backupper Professional.

AOMEI Backupper

Reliable Windows cloning software for personal use.

Download Demo
Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7

Step 1: Open AOMEI Backupper Professional and click on "Clone" > "Disk Clone".

Step 2: Select your HDD as the source disk.

Step 3: Choose your SSD as the destination disk.

Step 4: Tick the "SSD Alignment" option to optimize SSD performance.

Step 5: Click "Start Clone" to begin transferring data from the HDD to the SSD.

💬You can also use the following features:

Sector By Sector Clone: Clone all the sectors, including the blank and logically bad sectors. You can tick this option when cloning smaller hard drive to a larger one.

Edit Partitions: Adjust the partition size of the destination disk.

• Copy without resizing partitions: It will not resize the partition size.
• Add unused space to all partitions: Reallocate the unallocated space to each partition of the target disk.
• Manually adjust partition size: It allows you to extend unallocated space to any partition as you want.
• Convert the destination disk from MBR to GPT: Convert the partition style (MBR/GPT) of the target disk if you want it to be the same as the source disk. You can also leave it unchecked to keep the partition style unchanged.

FAQ - Answering Your Queries

Q: Can I transfer specific files or everything?

A: AOMEI Backupper allows you to choose specific files or clone the entire drive for a comprehensive transfer.

Q: How long does the file transfer process take?

A: The duration depends on the amount of data; AOMEI Backupper's efficiency ensures a swift process.

Q: Will transferring files to an SSD affect my Windows 11 license?

A: No, the license is tied to the motherboard, not the storage device.

Q: Can I continue using my HDD as an external drive?

A: Yes, repurpose your HDD as external storage using an external enclosure.

Q: Does AOMEI Backupper work with Windows 10?

A: Yes, AOMEI Backupper is compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Q: Can I use any SSD for my Windows 11 system?

A: Ensure compatibility by checking your system's specifications. Most SSDs with the correct form factor should work.

Conclusion

This article presents two methods for how to move files from HDD to SSD Windows 11:

1. Windows Copy and Paste: Suitable for small amounts of data transfer, but may encounter issues such as transferring files from different directories taking a lot of time or system files not functioning properly after transfer.

2. AOMEI Backupper Cloning: An easier and quicker method. This allows for the transfer of large amounts of data while ensuring that the operating system and applications work normally on the target disk after successful cloning. Additionally, it supports cloning dynamic disks and offers other useful features.

Ultimately, using AOMEI Backupper for cloning is recommended for a smoother and more efficient data transfer process. You can download the software and explore its features for yourself.