How to Use SSD for OS and HDD for Storage

What to Store on SSD VS HDD?

An HDD is a traditional storage device that uses spinning magnetic disks (platters) to read and write data. Think of it like a vinyl record player, with an arm and a spinning disk, except it's storing your files instead of music. SSD, for Solid State Drive, is a modern storage device that uses flash memory to store data, with no moving parts involved. Data storage on it is accessed electronically, not mechanically, so it’s much faster.

Recently, how to use SSD for OS and HDD for storage has been a hot debate. This is because SSDs and HDDs serve different purposes based on their strengths. If you have doubts about - Should I use SSD or HDD for OS? Which is better for storage, SSD or HDD? The following outlines the features of both drives and how to install SSD for OS and HDD for file storage. Please keep reading.

Thus, the key principle here is to use SSD for speed, and HDD for space, like using SSD for OS and HDD for games backups.

How to Use SSD for OS and HDD for Storage

There is no doubt that using SSD and HDD together helps to make the computer run smoother, boot faster, and load programs quicker. But how to set up SSD for operating system and HDD for storage for a dual-drive system is slightly different for a brand-new PC or a long-time used computer.

• For a new computer: You only need to clean install OS on SSD with the Windows Media Creation tool, and then format the HDD for storing data.
• For a well-configured computer, running Windows on an HDD, the goal is to migrate OS to SSD without reinstalling everything from scratch. This avoids the headache of data loss or software reinstallation.

Below, we will focus on how to move OS from HDD to SSD easily and quickly, so you can utilize SSD for boot and HDD for storage without data loss or reinstalling Windows.

Part 1. Move OS from HDD to SSD without Reinstalling

Rather than reinstalling Windows and reconfiguring your PC, a smart way to migrate is by cloning your OS from HDD to SSD. This method preserves all your files, apps, and settings, ensuring a seamless transition. AOMEI Cloner is one of the most trusted OS cloning tools. Its user-friendly interface and powerful features make it ideal for moving your system without boot issues.

AOMEI Cloner

Best System and Disk Cloning Software

• System Clone - Migrate only the system-related partitions to save space.
• Disk Clone - Duplicate the entire boot disk, including the Windows OS, installed program, settings, personal files, etc., to transfer everything from HDD to SSD.
• Partition Clone - Copy a specific partition, like moving EFI system partition to SSD.
• SSD Alignment - Optimize your SSD's performance and longevity automatically.
• Hot Clone - No need to restart; you can clone while Windows is running.
• Edit Partitions - Help to fully use the storage space of the destination SSD when migrating Windows from HDD to a larger SSD.

Free Download
Win 11/10/8/7/Server

100% Secure

This software works widely on Windows 11/10/8/7/XP/Vista and Windows Server 2025/2022/2019/2016/2012. So you can use it to clone Windows 11 to SSD and other systems per your need. Here is how to migrate OS from HDD to SSD using AOMEI Cloner.

Step 1. Power off your computer and connect the SSD. Use a SATA cable or USB adapter if needed.

Step 2. Download and install AOMEI Clonere on your computer. Open this tool and go to Clone > System Clone.

Step 3. Select the prepared SSD as destination path. This software will automatically select system partition and boot-related partitions for you.

Step 4. Confirm the operations, tick SSD Alignment to speed up the performance of new SSD, and click Start Clone to install Windows 10 on SSD without removing HDD.

Step 5. Once cloning is done, enter BIOS/UEFI during startup (usually by pressing DEL or F2). Change the boot priority to boot from your new SSD.

Part 2. Wipe HDD for Data Storage

After successfully migrating your OS to the SSD, it is time to repurpose that old HDD for storing files, games, or backups. You can get this done through the Windows Disk Management:

Step 1. Press Win + X and choose Disk Management.

Step 2. Locate your old HDD (double-check it's not the SSD).

Step 3. Right-click on each partition on the HDD and choose Delete Volume.

Step 4. Once all volumes are deleted, right-click and choose New Simple Volume to reformat the drive as a single storage partition.

Step 5. Give it a new drive letter (e.g., D:) and label (e.g., Storage). You now have a clean and fully usable drive for storing all your large files and backups.

FAQs about Using SSD for OS and HDD for Storage

#1. What is the best SSD for operating system?

The best SSDs for operating system use are fast, durable, support good write endurance, and with at least 250GB capacity.Top choices include:

• Samsung 980 Pro NVMe - Top-tier performance with reliable endurance.
• Crucial P5 Plus - Affordable and solid for everyday OS use.
• WD Black SN850X - Exceptional speeds and great for multitasking.
• Kingston KC3000 - Excellent mix of price and performance.

#2. Should I put my OS on SSD or HDD?

Always put the OS on the SSD. It speeds up boot times, makes your system more responsive, and reduces load times. Use the HDD for mass storage.

#3. Does SSD wear out faster than HDD?

SSDs do have a finite number of write cycles, but for most users, the difference is negligible. Modern SSDs are designed to last several years, even under heavy usage. Unless you're writing massive amounts of data daily (like video editing professionals or data centers), your SSD will likely outlast your computer’s useful life.

HDDs, on the other hand, have mechanical parts prone to failure over time, making SSDs generally more reliable for OS drives.

#4. Does changing from HDD to SSD remove OS?

Not necessarily. If you perform a bootable clone for the Windows OS from HDD to SSD using tools like AOMEI Cloner, all your files, settings, and applications are preserved. However, if you perform a clean install of Windows onto the SSD, then yes- the previous OS will no longer be present unless manually backed up.

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

Yes, and it’s the preferred method for many users. By using a cloning tool, you can transfer your entire system, including Windows, without needing to reinstall. This saves time and eliminates the need to reinstall apps, drivers, and personal files.

The Verdict

It is simple to transfer OS from HDD to SSD with the help of professional cloning software - AOMEI Cloner, thus you can install SSD for OS and HDD for storage with ease. You can use it to clone OS from hard drive to a smaller or larger drive without unallocated space left at the end of this disk. Also, you can use it to migrate OS from MBR to GPT and vice versa.