Utilizing an old HDD as a boot drive is possible but requires caution and proper preparation.
Utilizing an old HDD as a boot drive is possible but requires caution and proper preparation.
You're considering an older HDD as a boot drive to save money, but you're worried about potential viruses and data loss. It's smart to back up important files before proceeding. Since you plan to clone everything to a faster SSD, make sure the old drive is clean and virus-free. If you're unsure, it might be safer to purchase Windows 10 instead.
The Windows activation code is generally linked to the motherboard instead of the hard drive. To get a genuine activated version, you’d need to move the key to the new board or purchase a fresh one for the updated system. While sometimes the code attaches differently, I believe it usually depends on the motherboard. You can transfer it through your Microsoft account, though I’m not sure about the exact steps. I think I did this before using a YouTube guide. Alternatively, you could buy another key from a seller who offers bulk OEM keys at a low price—like the one I got a Windows 10 Pro key for £1.97 that way.
You can update Windows by using a driver tool and downloading it. Obtain a USB stick with at least 8GB of empty space. You might also consider erasing it. Once Windows is installed on the USB, wipe the hard drive. The system will remain with Windows 10 but without a license key. After assembling your PC and configuring everything, purchase a key from Kinguin for around thirty dollars.
I prefer avoiding it since many have shared experiences about using keys on Kinguin. Besides limited customization options and the watermark, there are other drawbacks to missing a Windows key.
If the device includes an SSD, that’s a solid choice for the boot drive. I’d install Windows 10 fresh on it, then install any antivirus software you prefer and run a scan afterward. The watermark and limited customization are the main downsides of an unactivated setup, though the watermark can be bothersome. Spending a bit to get an OEM license removes that issue. You can still use a drive with Windows installed temporarily without the watermark, but it may appear or disappear depending on your system state.
If that was truly the only option for an SSD, I’d have to choose the 1070. However, I don’t think it’s a decision that has to be final since, as I said earlier, you could always move the old drive to the new motherboard without any cost. You can also find a compact boot SSD for around £20 in the UK (prices in Singapore are uncertain).