How to Install Old SSD in New PC (2 Cases Included)

Can I put an old SSD in a new computer?

Generally, you may want to put an old SSD in a new computer for the following reasons:

• The old SSD has the system and common software installed. You want to keep using them on the new PC.
• The old SSD still works normally, and you want to add it to your new computer for storage expansion.

Then, can you put an old SSD in a new computer? The answer is Yes. Continue reading to get a stepwise guide.

Prepare for using old SSD in new computer

Before installing your old SSD, please make the following preparations:

1. Check Compatibility

Verify your old SSD works with your new PC:

• Interface Type: Identify whether your SSD is SATA (2.5-inch or M.2) or NVMe (PCIe) and confirm that your new motherboard has the appropriate slot.
• Form Factor: Ensure the SSD physically fits in the available space. Laptops may have limited room for a 2.5-inch drive.
• BIOS/UEFI Support: Some older SSDs may require firmware updates or BIOS adjustments to function correctly.

2. Backup Important Data

Create a full backup of your data to prevent accidental loss. The best free backup software - AOMEI Backupper Standard can give you a hand.

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• Flexible backup options: You are able to enable backup schedule, compress or split backup images and so on.

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Download and install AOMEI Backupper on your old PC. Run the program, and click Backup > Disk Backup to backup your old SSD to a place accessible to your new PC (e.g., external drive or NAS).

3. Gather Necessary Tools

To install the SSD, you may need a Phillips screwdriver, SATA cables and power connectors (for SATA SSDs), M.2 mounting screw (for NVMe SSDs), and an anti-static wrist strap.

How to use old SSD in new PC

Here I’ll show you how to use old SSD in new PC. Two parts are included:

Part 1: Install old SSD in new PC

1. Shut down the PC and unplug it from the power source.

2. Open the case using a screwdriver (if needed) and locate the SSD slots.

3. Connect the SSD to the motherboard:

For a SATA SSD (2.5-inch Drive)

• Find an available SATA port on the motherboard.
• Connect a SATA data cable from the SSD to the motherboard.
• Connect a SATA power cable from the power supply to the SSD.
• Secure the SSD in a drive bay using screws or a mounting bracket.

For an NVMe M.2 SSD

• Locate the M.2 slot on the motherboard (usually labeled).
• Insert the SSD at a 30-degree angle and gently press it down.
• Secure it with a mounting screw to prevent movement.

4. Close the PC case. Reconnect the power cable and turn on the computer.

Part 2: Use old SSD in new computer

After physically installing your old SSD in a new PC, you need to decide how to use it. There are two main options: keeping the old operating system and files or wiping the SSD for fresh use. Let’s go through both cases.

👉Case 1: Keep the old OS and files

If your SSD has Windows installed and you want to keep it, follow these steps:

1. Enter BIOS/UEFI by pressing F2, DEL, F10, or ESC during startup.

2. Set the old SSD as the primary boot device under Boot Options.

3. Save changes and restart.

👉Case 2: Wipe old SSD for reuse

If you want to use the SSD for storage expansion, you should format it.

1. Press Win + X, then select Disk Management.

2. Find the SSD, right-click, and choose Format.

3. In the pop-up window, customize your settings and click OK.

• Volume label: Name your SSD as necessary.
• File system: NTFS is best for Windows use.
• Allocation unit: Keep it as Default.
• Perform a quick format: Check this option for faster setup.

Note: If you’re planning to use the SSD for a fresh OS installation, you need to create a Windows installation USB and install Windows from scratch.

Troubleshooting common issues

After installing an old SSD in a new PC, you may encounter some issues. Here’s how to diagnose and fix them.

✅1. SSD Not Detected in BIOS or Windows

There are several ways you can try to fix the SSD not detected issue:

• Way 1: Recheck the SATA data and power cables’ connection. You may try a different SATA port on the motherboard.
• Way 2: Enter BIOS/UEFI and set the SSD mode to AHCI (not IDE or RAID).
• Way 3: If an NVMe SSD is not recognized, try installing the latest BIOS update from the motherboard manufacturer.

✅2. PC Won’t Boot from Old SSD

If your new PC won’t boot from the old SSD, try one of the following ways to fix it:

• Way 1: Boot into Safe Mode (Shift + Restart → Advanced Options → Startup Settings). If Safe Mode works, reinstall necessary drivers for the new motherboard.
• Way 2: Run Startup Repair using a Windows installation USB.

✅3. Windows Activation Issues

If you kept the old OS, Windows might deactivate due to hardware changes. Go to Settings → Activation and follow the steps. If activation fails, enter your original Windows key.

Wrapping things up

This guide walks you through the process of how to install old SSD in new PC, from physically installing the SSD to setting it up and troubleshooting common issues. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition and optimal performance for your old SSD in a new PC.

AOMEI Backupper can help you create a backup to prevent data loss during the transition. What’s more, it is professional disk clone software which enables you to clone SSD to larger SSD. Try it now to discover more!