How to Transfer Data from One SSD to Another | 3 Ways

Can I Transfer SSD to Another SSD?Of course, rely on the right method, you can transfer data from one SSD to another without losing data. Upgrading to a larger or faster SSD is a common need, but many users are unsure how to transfer their data safely and efficiently. A Reddit user once asked:

If you have similar doubts, you’re in the right place. Transferring data between SSDs isn't always as simple as drag-and-drop, especially if you want to move your operating system, installed programs, and hidden system files.This guide will walk you through three proven methods for transferring data between SSDs, covering both system and personal files. Whether you're upgrading to a new SSD, replacing a failing drive, or simply transferring files, you'll find the best approach here.

How to Transfer Data from One SSD to Another

There are multiple ways to transfer data, and the best method depends on your specific needs:

Method	Best For	Ease of Use
Cloning the SSD (Recommended)	OS migration and full disk transfer	⭐
Manually Copying Files	Transferring personal files only	⭐⭐
Using Windows Backup & Restore	Backup and restore with flexibility	⭐⭐⭐

You can choose the most suitable method for you, and then, follow the step-by-step guide to transfer data from one SSD to another.

Method 1: Cloning the SSD (Recommended for OS Migration and Full Disk Transfer)

If you're upgrading your SSD and want to transfer everything—including Windows, applications, and personal files—disk cloning is the best option. Cloning creates an exact copy of your existing SSD on the new one, allowing you to swap the drives without reinstalling Windows or losing any data. AOMEI Backupper Professional is one of the best cloning tools available, offering:

✅Full Disk Cloning – Transfers Windows, applications, and all data without reinstalling anything.

✅ System Optimization for SSDs – Automatically aligns partitions for better SSD performance.

✅ Safe & Easy to Use – No risk of data loss, and even beginners can use it.

✅ Supports Cloning to Smaller SSDs – If your new SSD has less storage, AOMEI Backupper can clone only used space.

Follow the step-by-step guide to clone SSD to another:

Step 1: Prepare Your SSD for Cloning

• Check the new SSD's storage capacity – Ensure it has enough space for your data.
• Backup your important files – While cloning doesn’t usually cause data loss, it’s good practice to back up important files.
• Connect the new SSD – Use a SATA-to-USB adapter or an external enclosure if your PC has only one SSD slot.

Step 2: Install and Launch AOMEI Backupper

Download and install AOMEI Backupperto pen the software and navigate to Clone > Disk Clone.

Step 3: Select Source and Destination SSD

• Choose your current SSD as the source drive and click Next.
• Select the new SSD as the destination drive and click Next.

Step 4: Configure Cloning Settings

• Enable “SSD Alignment” for better performance and lifespan.
• If the new SSD is smaller, you can also edit the partition to copy only the used space.

Step 5: Start Cloning: Click Start Clone and wait for the process to complete.

Step 6: Replace the Old SSD

• Shut down your PC, remove the old SSD, and install the new SSD in its place.
• Enter BIOS and set the new SSD as the primary boot device.

Now, your computer will boot from the new SSD, with everything intact!

Method 2: Manually Copy Files (For Personal Data Only)

If you only need to transfer documents, photos, videos, or other personal files—but not system files or installed programs—manual copying is a simple and effective method.With this method, no additional software is needed and you can have more flexibility to copy only what you need. But, you can’t copy installed programs or system files.

Step 1: Connect the New SSD: Use a USB-to-SATA adapter or install it internally.

Step 2: Copy Files from the Old SSD

• Open File Explorer and navigate to the source SSD.
• Select the files and folders you want to transfer.
• Copy (Ctrl + C) and paste (Ctrl + V) them to the new SSD.

Step 3: Check for Hidden Files: Some important files, such as AppData, might be hidden. To unhide them:

• Open File Explorer.
• Click View > Show > Hidden items.
• Copy any necessary hidden folders manually.

This method is ideal for users who only need to transfer personal files and don’t want to clone their entire SSD.

Method 3: Use Windows Backup & Restore

If you prefer a built-in solution, Windows Backup and Restore tool allows you to create a system backup and restore it to a new SSD. this method is suitable for users with basic computer skills. If you want to solve the problem more quickly, you can also use AOMEI Backupper, a tool that offers more advanced options and a simpler restoration process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Backup & Restore with AOMEI Backupper

Step 1: Create a Backup

• Open AOMEI Backupper and go to Backup > Disk Backup.

• Select your source SSD as the disk to back up.
• Choose an external drive or another location to save the backup.

• Click Start Backup to execute the backup.

Step 2: Replace the Old SSD

Turn off your computer and install the new SSD.

Step 3: Restore the Backup to the New SSD

• Boot into AOMEI Backupper.
• Choose Restore > Select Image File and locate the backup.
• Select the new SSD as the restore destination.
• Click Start Restore and wait for the process to complete.

This method is great for users who want a safe and flexible way to transfer data while keeping a backup.

Conclusion

Transferring data from one SSD to another can be easy using the right method. Whether you choose to clone, manually copy, or use a backup tool, make sure your data is transferred securely.

• If you are upgrading your SSD and want to keep everything, cloning with AOMEI Backupper is the way to go.
• If you only need to move personal files, manual copying is fine.
• For backup-based transfers, Windows Backup or AOMEI Backupper is the best choice.

For easy and efficient transfers, AOMEI Backupper is still the best tool.

FAQs About How to Transfer Data from One SSD to Another

1. How to transfer data from one SSD to another with one slot?

Use a USB-to-SATA adapter or an external SSD enclosure to connect the new SSD. Then, clone or transfer files as needed. You can use AOMEI Backupper and follow the guide to 

2. Can I transfer SSD to another SSD?

Yes! You can transfer SSD to another SSD easily and quickly. Via cloning, you can transfer all your data from to another drive without losing data. You can use AOMEI Backupper to clone or backup & restore your data.

3. How do I move programs from one SSD to another?

Programs cannot be manually copied. Instead, clone your SSD with AOMEI Backupper to transfer installed applications without reinstallation.