Transfer all data from your SSD to your HDD
Transfer all data from your SSD to your HDD
I prepared my PC around a year ago and just recently replaced the SSD. I aim to remove all data except the operating system and frequently used games/programs. I need to transfer everything from my SDD to my HDD without keeping the OS. How should I proceed?
I’d clone everything using Macrium Reflect and then remove Windows from the HDD afterward.
Usually, unless you're transferring files everywhere except your regular user directory, Windows maintains profiles efficiently. You can follow these actions and simply transfer the profile; everything will return. Before starting, stop all other programs, applications, folders, and files. Any interruption could lead to delays or block data movement.
Step 1: Ensure all folders are visible. Use the Control Panel → Appearance & Personalization → Folder Options to reveal hidden items.
Step 2: Navigate to C:\Users and select the profile you wish to move.
Step 3: Transfer the profile to your desired location. The process is straightforward. This method not only relocates the profile but also preserves settings, preferences, and even background images if saved properly.
If files are stored outside the profile directory, you’ll need to locate them manually. This approach works well for clean installations or when restoring from scratch.
it's really time-consuming watching windows take a long time copying files into nested folders inside folders. the fastest method is to make a new folder named "programs" on the second drive and simply reinstall everything there, updating the location during setup. you can also adjust the default program path in the registry, though it requires opening the browser and selecting the second drive as a small extra step.
Storing data you plan to remove later is inefficient and costly (requires energy).
I believe copying useful data and reinstalling the system would be simpler and cleaner.