How to Transfer Files from C Drive to D Drive [Windows 10/11]
With 6 simple and effective methods, you’ll learn how to transfer files from C drive to D drive in Windows 10 or 11, along with step by step instructions. Scroll down to explore more!
Last Updated November 11, 2025
The C drive is almost full - programs take longer to open, Windows updates fail, etc., and you even receive “Low disk space” warnings prompting you to free up some space.
Transferring files from C drive to D drive instantly resolves this issue while boosting your computer’s performance. Meanwhile, storing your files on the D drive better protects personal data while reinstalling Windows.
What to move from C drive to D drive? How to move files from C drive to D drive? Keep reading to learn more.
What Files Can You Move?
Most personal data can be safely transferred or reallocated from C drive to D drive without affecting Windows. This includes documents, pictures, videos, music, large temporary files, archives, and even whole user folders (like Downloads - fill up fast, Desktop, or Documents).
You can also move some installed programs and games, but there are limitations- certain apps rely on system files in C:\Program Files and may stop working if moved manually. In short, if it’s personal data or non-system software, you can usually move it.
Method 1: Manually Move Files using File Explorer [for Personal Data]
The simplest way to transfer files from C to D is by using File Explorer. This works for personal data such as documents, photos, videos, music, etc., stored in the Downloads folder or other locations.
Step 1. Press Win+E to open File Explorer. Open folders like Documents, Pictures, Videos, or Downloads in the C: drive and select the files you want to move.
Step 2. Right-click these files and select Cut. Then, paste them to the D drive. Or directly drag and drop.
Method 2: Transfer Files from C Drive to D Drive using Sync Tool [Automatic & Fast]
AOMEI Backupper Standard is a free sync tool that allows you to sync files between two drives, such as from C drive to D drive, automatically - all with just a few clicks. Here are some highlights of it:
- Free & Fast Sync: Sync only changed files from source to the destination, maximizing file transfer speed.
- Batch Sync: Sync multiple files or folders simultaneously, or set multiple sync tasks.
- Schedule Sync: Sync files automatically based on daily, weekly, monthly, or event triggers, ensuring your files are always up to date.
- Sync Deletions: Optionally sync the deletions from source directory to destination.
- OS Supported: Fully supports Windows 7, 8/8.1, 10, and 11.
100% SecureStep 1. Once installed, open AOMEI Backupper. Click Sync in the left panel and then Basic Sync.
Step 2. Click Select/Add Source to select the folders (on the C: drive) you want to transfer. Then, click the PC icon and select the D drive under This PC.
Step 3. (Important). Click Schedule Sync and enable it. Then, select Daily, Weekly, Daily (By interval), etc. from the drop-down menu, ensuring the tasks are executed automatically. Click Start Sync to move files from C drive to D drive.
Method 3: Move Installed Programs to D Drive
You can also move some installed programs and games from the C drive to the D drive. This helps free system space without reinstalling.
Step 1. Press Win + I to open Settings. Go to Apps > App & Features.
Step 2. Select an app and click Move. Then, choose the D: drive to reallocate it.
Method 4: Move Entire User Folders to D Drive
You can also relocate whole user folders, such as Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Music, or Downloads the D drive. Everything you save in those folders will automatically go to D instead of piling up on C.
Step 1. Open File Explorer. Go to C:\Users\YourUserName, Right-click a user folder like Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Pictures, or Videos, and select Properties.
Step 2. Under the Location tab, click Move.
Step 3. Select your D: drive or a folder on it. Click Apply > OK to transfer existing files and set the new location as the default.
Method 5: Transfer Large Game Files or Steam Libraries
Games can take up dozens or even hundreds of gigabytes. Moving them from C drive to D drive is one of the fastest ways to free space without reinstalling.
#1: Change game install location
Many modern launchers let you move games directly:
- Microsoft Store &Xbox app has a Move button. You can move it in Settings > Apps& Features.
- Epic Games, Ubisoft Connect, Battle.net: allow moving or verifying game files after relocation.
If the launcher supports it, you can move the game folder to D: and then choose “Locate game” or “Verify files” so it works normally.
#2: Move the Steam library to another drive
This method works great for large games like Warzone, GTA, or any title taking up a huge space on C.
Step 1. Open Steam. Click the Steam menu, choose Settings > Downloads.
Step 2. Click Steam Library Folders.
Step 3. Click Add Library Folder, select D:\Steam, and click Select.
Step 4. Right-click a game and select Properties.
Step 5. Switch to the Local Files tab, click Move Install Folder >Move Folder. Steam will automatically transfer the game to the D drive without redownloading.
Method 6: Change Default Save Location to D Drive [for Long-Term]
If you want Windows to automatically save new files to the D drive so the C drive stays clean, change the default storage paths in Windows Settings.
Step1. Open Settings and click System > Storage.
Step 2. Scroll down and select Change where new content is saved.
Step 3. Change the save location from C: to D: for each category, such as, e.g., documents, music, pictures, videos, apps, etc. Click Apply.
FAQs
1. Will moving files slow down apps?
Usually NO. Personal files like documents, photos, and videos work the same from any drive. Apps or games may load slightly slower if the D drive is a slower HDD while C is an SSD, but most users won’t notice a big difference. If both drives are SSDs, performance is basically identical.
2. Can I delete files from C after moving them?
Yes, but you need to confirm that the files were fully copied and can open normally on the D drive. For large folders, test a few files to make sure nothing is corrupted. Empty the Recycle Bin afterward to reclaim all storage.
3. What if my D drive is external or a USB?
You can move files there, but it’s not recommended long-term. If the drive disconnects, apps or games stored on it may break. In addition, external drives are slower and more likely to fail. For permanent storage, an internal HDD/SSD or a large secondary partition on your system disk is the better choice.
Final Thoughts
How to transfer files from C drive to D drive? The easiest and safest method is moving personal data, such as documents, pictures, videos, large folders, etc., using a free sync tool - AOMEI Backupper Standard. This process is automated and fast, minimizing manual intervention. To keep Drive C clean long-term:
- Save downloads, videos, and large files directly to D
- Uninstall programs you no longer use
- Clear temporary files regularly
- Move game libraries or app installs to D from the start
If your C drive keeps filling up even after moving data, it may be time to upgrade C drive to larger SSD - get more free space and high performance.