How do I transfer Windows and my programs to my new SSD?

Dinsorsoos · Jan 11, 2015

Just got a new 256gb Crucial mx100 SSD for christmas. I want to transfer Windows (24gb) and some/all my programs (145gb) from my current 1tb HDD onto the SSD.
Some sites say to clone the drive or certain files, whereas others say to reinstall windows. I would rather not reinstall windows because that would mean having to install all my programs again and set up my whole computer from scratch.
I have also heard of this software: http://www.paragon-software.com/technologies/components/migrate-OS-to-SSD/
Would this help me do what I want to do? As I said I only want Windows and my program files on the SSD.
I would love if someone could talk my through the process, as I don't really know what I'm doing!
Responses would be highly appreciated!

bootcher · Jan 11, 2015

Best practice is reinstall windows to start fresh and get rid of old clutter.

Otherwise you can clone the drive, there are several programs that let you clone from a bigger to a smaller drive. Usually you only need to backup/move your /user/folder, and let the rest be cloned onto the new drive. After cloning set the ssd to primary/boot in bios and you're ready.

Dinsorsoos · Jan 11, 2015

bootcher :

Wont cloning the 'rest' result in me moving a random bunch of files onto my SSD that don't benefit from being there? I would rather not do that.
Do you know of any software that would allow me to just clone Windows and my program files, and leave the rest? I presume that would be just the 'Windows', 'Program Files (x86)' and 'Program Files' folders?

bootcher · Jan 11, 2015

Some programs might not be installed in the 'program files' folder or use folders outside of it. Folders that you have created or that you know don't contain anything relevant to be cloned should of course be moved or deleted before cloning.

Here is a guide for cloning:
http://www.maximumpc.com/how_clone_hard_drive_or_ssd_2014

Dinsorsoos · Jan 12, 2015

bootcher :

Actually I think I'll just reinstall windows so I don't have to worry about anything going wrong. Thanks. Although that does mean reinstalling all my programs again...

bootcher · Jan 12, 2015

No problem. Reinstalling might take a bit longer than cloning, but also there is no old uninstalled program files left behind or programs that remain installed but you you never use (anymore).

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How do I transfer Windows and my programs to my new SSD?

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