How to download games to a hdd when using a ssd as a boot drive

tcook218

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Oct 31, 2017
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I was thinking about getting a 120 gig ssd and using it to boot windows and games. Can I download the games to my hdd and open them with the ssd?
 
Solution
I think the question is can it be installed on an hdd but opened on an ssd? That’s not possible. You could download the game to your hdd and install it on the ssd, but wherever the game is installed, that’s where it will open from.
The games will only open from the drive they are installed to. If you download and install on your ssd that’s where the file will open and it will be faster. Slower from the hdd. That’s an awfully small drive so you wouldn’t be able to put much on it.

That being said I put most of my games on my hdd and load speeds haven’t bothered me.
 


So I can't download it on a hdd and boot on a ssd? That sucks also is kingston a good brand for ssd's?
 
I believe Kingston is a reliable name for ssds but have never had one myself. I use a Samsung and it’s been great. Got the 240 so I have plenty of room. But no, unfortunately, wherever the game is installed, is where it will boot from so there is no installing on your hdd and booting it on another drive.
 


That's not true at all. I've been doing it for years.
 
I think the question is can it be installed on an hdd but opened on an ssd? That’s not possible. You could download the game to your hdd and install it on the ssd, but wherever the game is installed, that’s where it will open from.
 
Solution
Read the link I posted above. My Steam games and Steam installation is on a 500GB Samsung 840 Evo. Windows is on my 512Gb 950 Pro.

I do it because some game mods don't play nice with the Windows UAC. The thing that pops up and asks if you're sure you want to run this. But most people do it because of space considerations. Like the OP.

I think you can do the same with Origin. Not sure about uPlay.

 


The game will be opened from Windows like any program. It does NOT matter what drive Steam is on if you follow the directions in the link I provided. I think you're over complicating it.