How to Move Files From SSD to HDD in Windows 11 (2 Ways)

If your SSD space isn't enough for you any longer, you can smoothly move all your system files from SSD to HDD in Windows 11 using two awesome methods.

Are you planning to move from SSD to HDD in Windows 11? Then, you must be already wondering how to move all your files from SSD to HDD without losing anything in the way.

It is not hard to transfer all of your system files from a solid-state drive to a hard disk drive in Windows 11. You can use data transfer software or manually copy and paste SSD files to HDD. On this page from EaseUS, we have briefly discussed both options to decide which method is more beneficial for you. So, let's get started.

Method 1. Data Transfer Software — EaseUS Todo PCTrans

If you need to transfer mass files, large files, or even installed apps from SSD to HDD on Windows 11, the data transfer software is one of the easiest ways. EaseUS Todo PCTrans is a one-stop PC transfer software that meets your requirements. Here are the main features of this tool:

• Transfer data, applications, systems, and user account settings between different drives.
• Offer three main transfer modes: PC to PC, Backup and Restore, and App Migration.
• Acquire product keys for Microsoft Office, Adobe software, and Windows OS.

For file transfer from SSD to HDD, EaseUS Todo PCTrans offers two options:

Option 1. Large File Cleanup Feature 

This option is ideal when you want to find large files on your SSD and then transfer them to HDD. This option can locate and move large files in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, or even older versions. 

Step 1. Click "Large File Cleanup" on the left panel, and click "Start" button.

Step 2. Select "Folder" tab, check the folders you want to move. Choose target drive and click "Move" button.

Step 3. Wait for moving process completes. Click "Finish".

Note: You can click the "Restore" button to restore the current folder to the default location.

Option 2. Backup & Restore Feature

Another way to move files from SSD to HDD via Todo PCTrans is to make an image copy of the files on SSD and then move them to HDD. After that, you can delete files on your SSD to create more free space. 

Method 2. Manual — Copy and Paste

If you wish to transfer files to HDD manually, you can use the copy and paste technique. Here, you just have to cut the file from the SSD and paste it to your HDD location. However, if you want to move lots of files, it will take some time. Besides, you have to face various permission issues if you aren't logged into the computer as an administrator. 

If you face a permission issue or want to move various files together, you have to follow these steps:

Step 1. Open the Run command box by pressing Windows + R together. 

Step 2. Enter gpedit.msc and hit Enter.  . Go to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options.

Step 3. Highlight Security Options and navigate down to the User Account Control. 

Step 4. Right-click on it, select the Properties to enable them individually, and Save changes.

• Go to This PC > Manage > System Tools > Local Users and Groups > Users. 
• Right-click Administrator and select the Properties.
• Uncheck an Account is a disabled option.

Just restart your computer, and now you can move files from SSD to HDD. 

Why Should You Move Files from SSD to HDD?

Most PC users prefer SSDs as they are highly reliable, durable, and power-efficient storage devices. However, it doesn't mean HDD isn't a good option to store your files. In fact, in many cases, HDD is a better option to store files than SSD, such as:

Larger storage capacity

Moving SSD files to HDD is the best option when you have a hefty amount of files on your system. The HDDs are available in different storage capacities, such as 40GB, 12TB, or even higher. SSDs are also available in varying capacities but are mostly less spacious than HDDs. 

Cost-effective solution

HDDs are also beneficial if you want more space at a lower price. After upgrading to a new Windows 11, you probably don't want to buy expensive SSDs. So, here, you can use an HDD to get more space without spending much. 

A longer lifespan

HDDs are perfect if you don't want to move your files from one SSD to another with every system update. That's because HDDs have a higher read-write cycle as data is directly written on the platter disk. These platter disks offer higher durability and last for a long time. Thus, you can store your files for a longer time over HDDs.

Concluding Thoughts 

Using both methods, it is easy to move files from SSD to HDD in Windows 11. In the first method, you can use a simple tool like EaseUS Todo PCTrans to move and backup files between two disk formats. On the contrary, the manual copy-and-paste method is easy but time-consuming and full of glitches. 

EaseUS Todo PCTrans is the best option to transfer files from SSD to HDD in Windows 11 without any hassle. Rest it is your choice, so consider all relevant facts before selecting your file transfer method. 

Quick FAQ About Moving Data from SSD to HDD 

To get a better idea about moving data from SSD to HDD in Windows 11, have a look at the following facts:

1. Can you move games from SSD to HDD?

Yes, you can. If your SSD disk runs out of space, you can easily find, locate, and move big game files to HDD. Todo PCTrans lets you transfer Steam, Epic, Blizzard, Riot, and Origin games to another drive with one click. 

2. Can I move Windows from SSD to HDD?

Once again, yes. You can move all Windows files from SSD to HDD using the professional Windows migration solution. You can back up your SSD Windows files before moving to HDD for extra safety. 

3. How to move user files from SSD to HDD?

Without administrative access, it is very complicated to transfer user files from SSD to HDD (already discussed above). However, if you use Todo PCTrans to move user files between two disks, you can do it in a couple of steps (already discussed above).