Since PC hardware evolves every year, people typically upgrade their whole computer system. However, they must include their old SSD in new PCs because it contains all their vital documents and media, but using an old SSD in a new computer is a little tricky.
So, in this article, I’ll show you exactly how to transfer an old SSD from an old computer to a new one.
Let’s get started.
How to Use Old SSD on a New Computer
Yes, it is possible to use an old SSD on a new PC. Simply insert your old SSD drive into an open SATA or M.2 slot, and it will appear on your computer as drive D: You can enter the information there. However, the first time it may ask for your ownership over the previous SSD drive.
Before implementing the approaches, a question may arise in the user’s mind: can the old SSD Windows be used on the new computer system?
Yes, a user can utilize an older operating system version on their new computer. The process is very easy. Simply choose the old SSD as the primary boot drive in BIOS, and the computer will load the operating system from the old SSD.
Note: Based on my previous experience, I do not advise using older operating systems because they occasionally do not work with the current system due to a mismatch between the system file and new hardware. I always prefer to install a new fresh copy of Windows after building a new PC.
If you do not wish to use your old SSD as the primary driver but rather as a supporting driver, apply the methods below.
Here are the methods to use an old SSD on a new PC:
1. Install SSD on Computer
You can use your old SSD as a secondary disk on your PC. Just make sure your motherboard has a free SATA or M.2 slot before installing the SSD.
Here is the process to install SSD on a PC:
- Open your Casing side case.
- Locate the Port where you want to install your SSD.
Note: You must identify the socket based on the form factor of your SSD. If you have an M.2 SSD, locate an M.2 slot on your motherboard; otherwise, connect your SSD using a SATA connection.
- Connect your SSD to an M.2 slot or use a SATA cable to install it.
If you cannot locate a compatible port on your motherboard while installing the SSD, proceed to the next method.
Also, check out our expert’s recommended fastest PCIE 4.0 SSDs.
2. Use an SSD to USB Adapter
You may easily connect your old SSD to your computer as an external storage drive by utilizing a USB adapter. This adapter is available in both online and offline markets.
One side of the adapter will be attached to your SSD, while the other side will be connected to your computer through a USB cable. However, before purchasing a USB adapter, ensure that it is compatible with your SSD model.
Note: When using a USB adapter to connect your SSD, you will not be able to get the full performance out of it. Because the data transfer speed of this sort of USB converter is limited. As a result, the speed of your high-speed SSD will be limited to USB data transmission speed.
To solve this slow speed problem, you can follow the next method.
Check our recent article on what happens if my SSD is full.
3. Use an SSD Enclosure
Enclosure supports high-speed NVMe SSD. As a result, you can use these enclosures to extract the maximum speed from your SSD. It’s a bit more expensive than the SSD-to-USB converter, but you can sacrifice some money for better performance. 
The data transfer speed of these SSD enclosures is 10Gbps, and it also supports the latest generation of USB 3.2 Gen2. It is also compatible with older USB 3.1 and 3.0.
To ensure safety and stability USB C NVMe container uses an innovative RTL9210 chip including short-circuit, over-current, and multi-protection to assure the safety of your SSD and important data, as well as significantly faster speed.
Also check our exclusive tutorial on can SSD Improve FPS.
FAQs
Can I put my old SSD in my new laptop?
Perhaps, but I wouldn’t encourage it. When you set up your operating system, it is installed and customized for the hardware in your machine. Most notably, the Processor and mobo chipsets. If this is transferred from one laptop to another that has the same chipset, it should function perfectly.
Do I need to rebuy Windows 10 for a new SSD?
No, it will be just fine. It only happens when you replace the motherboard or the entire PC.
Do I need to wipe an SSD before putting it on a new PC?
No, an SSD does not need to be cleaned before being installed on a new computer. Simply reinstall the application because transferring it will delete its original file.
Conclusion
Using an old SSD on a new computer saves users money because they don’t have to buy a new storage device. However, because the process is a little tricky, it is not easy for everyone to use their old SSD on their new PC.
So in this article, I have shown the exact methods to use an old SSD on a new build computer.
If you have any ideas or questions in mind about this topic, comment below.
