How to Use SSD and HDD Together on Windows 11/10

Can You Use Both SSD and HDD At the Same Time?

Absolutely. You can use SSD and HDD together on a computer. SSDs are known for their lightning-fast read and write speeds, which make them perfect for your operating system and applications. HDDs, on the other hand, offer massive storage at a relatively lower cost per GB, ideal for files like photos, videos, and backups.

Many laptops and desktops offer room for both HDD and SSD drives, like an M.2 SSD slot (for an SSD) and a 2.5-inch SATA bay (for an HDD). When you set up a PC with both HDD and SSD, there are many benefits:

• Speed + Capacity: SSD gives you fast performance; HDD gives you big storage.
• Cost-Effective: You don't have to buy a massive SSD to store everything.
• Longer Lifespan: Storing static files on the HDD reduces wear on the SSD.

Best Practice of Using SSD and HDD Together

Now that you know the answer to the question - can I use SSD and HDD at the same time, let's take a look at how to use SSD and HDD together in laptop/desktop to get the most out of using both drives.

• Install Windows OS on SSD. This ensures faster boot times and great system performance.

• Install heavy programs and games on SSD. Apps like Photoshop or large games will launch quicker from solid-state storage.

• Move user folders to HDD. HDDs usually offer large capacities at a low cost. Storing non-essential data here saves precious SSD space and extends its lifespan.

• Use the HDD as a backup location. Store media, older documents, and backups where speed is less critical.

• Avoid filling the SSD to 100%. Leave at least 10- 20% free for smooth system operation.

• Enable TRIM and AHCI mode. TRIM helps keep SSD performance optimal, and enabling AHCI mode in BIOS ensures the SSD works efficiently.

How to Use SSD and HDD Together on Windows 11/10

After knowing: Can SSD and HDD work together in PC and What is the best solution to use both SSD and HDD at the same time, it’s time to explore how to use SSD for OS and HDD for storage.

Since HDD was the mainstream storage device in the past, we will cover how to use SSD as a boot drive below, including how to install Windows 11 on new SSD without USB or with USB, and how to wipe HDD for storing your data.

Part 1. Use SSD as Boot Drive

The first step is to make the SSD your primary drive for Windows and essential programs. There are two ways to go about this.

1️⃣If you don't want to reinstall Windows from scratch, or if you don't have a storage media, like a USB drive, to install Windows, pick the first method to move Windows to SSD with the powerful cloning software - AOMEI Cloner.

2️⃣If you prefer a fresh start for your sluggish, old system, turn to the second method.

Way 1. Migrate Windows from HDD to SSD without Reinstalling

If you already have Windows installed on an HDD and don’t want to reinstall everything, you can clone your system from HDD to SSD.AOMEI Cloner is a reliable and professional cloning software that allows you to transfer data from HDD to SSD, SSD to SSD, HDD to HDD, or SSD to HDD easily and securely.

Here's how to install Windows 11/10 on SSD using the cloning feature of AOMEI Cloner:

Step 1. Connect the SSD to the computer. For how to add SSD to PC on Windows 11/10, here are two cases:

• If your computer has only one disk slot, connect the SSD to the computer using an SSD adapter or a USB to SATA cable.
• If your computer has an additional SSD slot, use a screwdriver to properly remove the computer chassis > locate the SSD slot > carefully place the SSD into the slot and tighten it.

Step 2. Download and open AOMEI Cloner, select Clone, and choose System Clone from the main menu. (If you want to clone entire boot drive, including the Windows OS, installed programs, and personal data, to SSD, select the Disk Clone option)

Step 3. In System Clone mode, this tool automatically selects all system boot-related partitions as the cloning source. Here, you only need to select your connected SSD as the destination.

Step 4. Check the SSD Alignment box to boost read/write performance. Click Start Clone and wait for the Windows OS migration process to finish.

Once cloned, you can restart your computer, enter your BIOS, and set the cloned SSD as the primary boot device to boot from it seamlessly.

Way 2. Clean Install Windows on SSD

You can also run a clean install of Windows on SSD, if you want to want to use a third-party tool. Here are steps of how to install Windows 11 on SSD from USB:

Step 1. Create a bootable Windows USB using the the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool. Then, disconnect your HDD temporarily to avoid confusion during setup.

Step 2. Boot your computer from the bootable USB, choose your language & preferences, and click Next. Then, click Install now.

Step 3. Enter your product key or choose I don't have a product key if you're reinstalling Windows when it asks you to activate Windows.

Step 4. Select the operating system you want to install and click Next.

Step 5. Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).

Step 6. Then, choose the SSD where you want to install Windows 11 and click Next. Now, wait for the process to be done.

Step 7. After that, configure your information like keyboard layout, then add your account and privacy settings.

Step 8. Reconnect the HDD after installation and change the boot priority in BIOS if needed. Then, you can run Windows 11 on your SSD.

Part 2. Use HDD for Data Storage

Once your SSD is running Windows correctly, you can configure the old HDD as the primary storage location for non-essential files. You can format the disk with the built-in disk partition manager - Disk Management.

Press Win + R to access the Run window> type diskmgmt.msc and hit Enter> right-click the HDD and choose Format > choose FAT32 or NTFS as file system and click Next to begin the disk formatting process.

FAQs about Using SSD and HDD Together on Windows 11/10

#1. Do I need to partition my SSD before installing Windows 11?

Not necessarily. The Windows installer will automatically partition the SSD during setup. However, you can pre-partition it using Disk Management if you prefer a specific layout.

#2. Can I change HDD to SSD without reinstalling Windows?

Absolutely! That’s where disk cloning comes in. Using tools like AOMEI Cloner allows you to duplicate your OS without reinstalling anything.

#3. Can I install SSD without removing HDD?

Yes, as long as your motherboard has an available SATA or M.2 slot. You can install the SSD alongside your HDD and configure the boot drive in BIOS.

To Sum it up

If you are curious about the question - Can we use both SSD and HDD together in PC, this complete guide about how to use SSD and HDD together on Windows 11/10 answers it and tells you how to get it done.

By using the SSD as your boot drive, either through cloning with AOMEI Cloner or clean installation, and configuring the HDD for data storage, you will get lightning-fast boot and load times from your SSD while keeping your HDD around for bulk storage.

Except for cloning system/disk on Windows 11/10, you can also run the AOMEI Cloner software to clone hard drive on Windows Server. Get it to have a try now, it won't let you done.