How to change from ssd to hdd?

[BaderA]

I would like to upgrade my storage to a ssd but I still want to use my hdd for storage. What I will be using my ssd for is windows and games the hdd will have all the things I have on it now (movies, TV shows, etc.) IS there a way I can install windows on my ssd and remove it from my hdd and transfer games from my hdd to my ssd? Are there any recommended programs? If not what is the best way to do it manually?

 

[SuperSoph_WD]

Welcome to Tom's Hardware, @BaderA!

The best thing to do is perform a fresh install with the same OS version on the SSD, however, you need to keep the HDD unplugged while doing that. Otherwise, you might encounter an OS confusion due to the multiple SATA devices connected while Windows is installing. You can refer to this tutorial from detailed step-by-steps on Windows Install & Optmization for SSDs & HDDs.

Another alternative is to clone the current system drive to the SSD using a cloning software. However, you will be able to move some of the games and software to the SSD, but others you will need to re-install otherwise they might cause you loading/performance issues. For example, Steam shouldn't cause you any trouble moving. You can check your gaming platform's KB for how to move the installation.

The most important thing is to backup all your data from your current storage setup somewhere off-site before you proceed with tampering the storage. This way you will avoid any potential data loss. Better safe than sorry, right?

Keep me posted if you have more questions. Hope this helps you!
SuperSoph_WD