Correct way to go from HDD to SSD?

[scando]

Would the following work?

1) BU critical files from HDD to a flash.
2) Unplug the old HDD, connect new SSD.
3) Install Win on the SSD.
4) Plug in the old HDD.
5) Change boot order to SSD only.
6) Boot into Win.
7) Move Steam stuff from HDD to SSD per their instruction (i.e. no re-downloading).
8) Reformat the old HDD.
9) Bring the BU files to SSD.

Any problems I might expect?

 

[glamdringfh]

Not missing anything that I can see, those are the correct steps. Good luck with the upgrade!

*Make sure you BIOS is using ACHI to support the SSD

 

[Bob57]

Why wouldn't you just do the following:
1) Clone HDD onto SDD
2) Reboot into BIOS, set SDD as default boot device
3) Continue to boot SSD to Windows
4) Reformat HDD

Much simpler IMHO.

 

[Eximo]

Agreed. Most vendors will offer a drive specific cloning utility. Or you can provide your own.

 

[scando]

Why wouldn't you just do the following:
1) Clone HDD onto SDD
2) Reboot into BIOS, set SDD as default boot device
3) Continue to boot SSD to Windows
4) Reformat HDD

Much simpler IMHO.

What would be a good way to clone the HDD onto the SSD?

 

[Bob57]

Numerous cloning software exists...

Either a vendor supplied one (Samsung provides one with the drive) or a freeware one (clonezilla comes to mind) or a payware one (Acronis comes to mind, which is what I use). Another source is one is usually provided if you also purchase USB based SSD cloning hardware for use when converting from laptop HDDs to SSDs.

 

[scando]

Either a vendor supplied one (Samsung provides one with the drive) or a freeware one (clonezilla comes to mind) or a payware one (Acronis comes to mind, which is what I use). Another source is one is usually provided if you also purchase USB based SSD cloning hardware for use when converting from laptop HDDs to SSDs.

Thank you Bob, having done a bit more research, I now see that I was totally making this way too hard. Cloning the original drive is clearly the way to go in my (pretty straightforward) situation. First time posting here, and really appreciate all the answers, you guys. Thanks again!