Question Making the swith to an SSD

[Chrismc024]

I know this question is redundant and there are tutorials ALL OVER the internet and these forums, so I apologize if you find this annoying, but I just spent good money on this computer and want to do it right so I GREATLY appreciate any help you are able to offer!!

Scenario: I am switching my windows 10 64-bit operating system which is stored on a 2 tb (1.8tb) HDD, onto a 500 gb (446 gb) SSD. I am moving all installations of both programs and games along with it in order to ensure optimal performance. The bulk of my storage is with compressed folders, pictures, downloads, and music; I will be partitioning these non-essential files within the HDD to be kept for storage and allowing the essential files to fit the required size of 446 gb.

Tools: I will be using Paragon Hard DIsk Manager for backup, recovery media (USB bootable drive) and the migration from HDD to SSD.

I have read a few different things that caused me slight concern and am really just seeking a little clarification. For starters when I create the partition on my HDD that will hold the media files, am I able to leave that on the HDD during migration without it affecting the transfer? Also, will the difference of drives have a negative impact on performance when trying to load for instance a movie? Will, the installed software and games be moved with the system or do I have to reinstall them if I want them located on the SSD?

Paragon has a very user friendly interface and seems pretty straightforward, literally just a couple clicks and I can commit to the exchange so I want to make sure to set it up right.

 

[CountMike]

I would really suggest a clean windows installation the SSD. First, most probaby you have windows installed in IDE mode instead of AHCI mode SATA which is much preferable for SSDs for their best performance and longevity. It's difficult to change later on. You would also have to reinstall most programs/games but would also gain much of space on old HDD and faster system.

 

[Chrismc024]

I would really suggest a clean windows installation the SSD. First, most probaby you have windows installed in IDE mode instead of AHCI mode SATA which is much preferable for SSDs for their best performance and longevity. It's difficult to change later on. You would also have to reinstall most programs/games but would also gain much of space on old HDD and faster system.

I bought this computer from a private seller and therefore am not sure what the windows licensing is, am I able to pull the key off of the system some how or do I need to just get a whole new windows installation?

 

[popatim]

Belarc Advisor and ProduKey are just two of the free keyfinder apps available on the net.