How to Migrate Windows 11 to New SSD without Reinstalling Windows

Migrating Windows 11 to new SSD is helpful if your computer starts experiencing delays or running out of space on your hard drive. Fortunately, there is no need to reinstall everything from scratch with the right method. On this page, we will show you how to move Windows 11 to another drive without losing data, with all your settings, apps, and files intact - saving you hours of reconfiguration.

What to Prepare Before Moving Windows 11 to New SSD?

Before diving into the process of Windows 11 transfer to new ssd, a little prep work goes a long way. A smooth transition demands the right tools and checks. Here's what you need to get started:

• New SSD with enough space: Make sure the new SSD has equal or larger storage capacity than your current Windows OS installation.
• SATA-to-USB adapter or extra SATA cable: You’ll need a way to connect the new SSD to your PC during the migration.
• Backup your data: Backing up important files is always important before making any major changes.
• Initialize the new SSD: Windows 11 requires GPT to install the operating system, so please open Disk Management > right-click the new SSD to select Initialize Disk> set it to GPT style.

How to Migrate Windows 11 to New SSD in 2 Solutions

There are two methods to move Windows 11 to new SSD - using a professional OS migration software or relying on the Windows system image tool. Let’s check them one by one now.

Way 1. Clone Windows 11 to New SSD - Easiest & No Data Loss

To move Windows 11 to another drive seamlessly without losing a single file or reinstalling anything, cloning is the best option. It's straightforward and highly effective. AOMEI Cloner, with more than ten years of experience in cloning, can fulfill your need to migrate Windows 11 to a larger/smaller SSD in simple clicks.

• Its System Clone allows you to easily migrate only your OS and necessary boot files to SSD, ensuring a secure boot.

• Its Disk Clone enables you to copy entire disk to another drive to keep all data the same.

• Its SSD Alignment is helpful to automatically optimize SSD for better performance and longer lifespan during the cloning process.

Besides, it utilizes Intelligent Clone by default to clone only used sectors, allowing you to migrate from a larger drive to a smaller one, like cloning 1TB HDD to 500GB SSD.

Here is how to clone Windows 11 to new SSD using AOMEI Cloner:

Step 1. Connect the new SSD and run AOMEI Cloner

If your PC has more than one slot, simply install the new SSD alongside the old drive. Otherwise, you can connect it as an external drive using a USB to SATA adapter or enclosure. Then, open the AOMEI Cloner software.

Step 2. Specify the cloning source and destination drive

Go to the Clone tab on the left menu, then select System Clone.

Step 3. Confirm the settings and start cloning

1. The system boot-up-related drives are selected by default. You just need to choose the new SSD as the cloning target drive.

2. Confirm the operation and tap on Start Clone.

✍Tip: This software is also applicable to migrating Windows 10/8/7/Server operating system to new SSD or HDD. 

Way 2. Transfer Windows 11 to New Drive via Backup & Restore

If you prefer a more traditional approach, you could try the backup and restore method. This requires you to create a full system backup of your current Windows 11 setup using Windows Backup and Restore. Then, restore that backup to the new SSD. Here is what to do:

Notes:✎...

This methods only support OS migration from a smaller disk to a larger SSD/HDD.

You need to prepare a USB drive with at least 8GB available storage space for creating a recovery USB.

Step 1. Create Windows 11 system image

1. Open Control Panel, go to System and Security, and click on Backup and Restore (Windows 7). Then, click Create a System Image from the left.

2. Select to save the system backup image to an external disk, and wait for the process to complete.

Step 2. Create a system repair disc

Connect a new USB drive to computer, then create a recovery disk by searching for "recovery drive" in the Windows search box and following the on-screen guide to get it done.

Step 3. Restore system image to new SSD

1. Connect the new SSD and boot your computer using the recovery disk.

2. Navigate to Next > Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Image Recovery in turn.

3. Verify if it has selected the right backup image for restore or you can click Select a system image to pick the right one manually.

4. Then, on the Choose additional restore options screen, ensure to tick Format and repartition disks. Go on to click Finish and start restoring and transferring Windows 11 to new SSD.

How to Boot Computer from Cloned New SSD

After successfully migrating Windows 11 to new SSD, the final step is ensuring your PC boots from the new drive. If you've replaced the old drive entirely, your system should automatically detect and boot from the SSD. However, if the original drive is still installed, you may need to manually adjust the boot order in your BIOS/UEFI settings.

Step 1. Restart your computer and press the BIOS/UEFI entry key (usually F2, F10, Del, or Esc). Then, navigate to the Boot tab.

Step 2. Set your new SSD as the first boot device.

Step 3. Save changes and exit BIOS.

💡Troubleshooting Tips

1. If the SSD doesn’t appear in BIOS:

• Ensure the SSD is properly connected (check SATA/power cables or NVMe seating).

• Some motherboards require enabling NVMe support in BIOS.

2. If the system still boots from the old drive: Double-check boot order or disconnect the old drive temporarily.

3. If you get a "No boot device" error: The cloning process may have failed, consider re-cloning or repairing the bootloader.

FAQs about Moving Windows 11 to New SSD

#1. Does Windows 11 have a migration tool?

No, Windows 11 doesn't come with a dedicated migration tool, but it does include Backup and Restore which can serve the purpose of OS migration.

#2. Can I replace my SSD without reinstalling Windows?

Absolutely. With the right tools and methods, you can migrate Windows 11 to new SSD without reinstalling. Cloning your existing system or using a system image backup are both viable solutions.

#3. Will I lose my Windows 11 license if I change my SSD?

In most cases, no. Windows 11 is usually tied to your Microsoft account or digital license, not your storage drive. After replacing the SSD, as long as the motherboard remains the same, Windows 11 should remain activated. If not, you can reactivate using your Microsoft credentials.

#4. Do I need to format a new SSD before installing OS?

Not necessarily. Most cloning tools will take care of this for you. But if you're restoring from an image, it's wise to initialize and format it first.

#5. Can I transfer just Windows to a new SSD?

Yes. Tools like AOMEI Cloner allow you to clone just the system partition(s), transferring only Windows and essential boot files. This is useful if your new SSD has limited storage and you prefer to store files on a secondary drive.

Conclusion

Migrating Windows 11 OS to a new SSD can be accomplished through multiple methods, each with its own advantages. Whether you opt for the quick and efficient cloning process using AOMEI Cloner or prefer the traditional Windows Backup and Restore approach, following the right steps ensures a smooth transition.

For most users, especially beginners, AOMEI Cloner provides the safest and easiest way to clone Windows 11 to a new SSD, minimizing risks of boot failures or data loss. However, if you're comfortable with manual processes, Windows Backup & Restore remains a viable alternative.

Whichever method you choose, ensure you verify the boot order in BIOS afterward to complete the migration successfully. Enjoy your faster, more responsive system with your new SSD!