Can You Use A Laptop Hard Drive in A Desktop? Detailed Guide About SSD

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text woodmart_inline=”no” text_larger=”no”]Do you have an old laptop hard drive? Want to use it with your desktop? In this article, I will tell you all about SSDs and answer your question ‘Can You Use a Laptop Hard Drive in a Desktop?’. Yes, you can use a laptop hard drive on a desktop. But before I tell you if you can put a laptop hard drive on a desktop, let me familiarize you with the difference between laptop SSD and desktop SSD.

Difference Between Laptop SSD And Desktop SSD

The hard drives in a laptop and desktop are almost similar. The only major difference observed is in the size of the SSD. Desktop systems use 3.5 inches hard drives and laptops have smaller drives of 2.5 inches to accommodate the size of the laptop. 

Can You Use A Laptop Hard Drive in A Desktop?

Yes, In spite of the size difference in the hard drives of both systems, a laptop hard drive can be used on a desktop. Firstly, you must ensure that the laptop’s SSD is not soldered to the system. Only then it is possible to mount it on a different system or use any bracket to connect to another system. 

Method 1: Install into A Desktop

Install into a desktopThis method requires you to mount your laptop SSD into an empty 2.5-inch slot in your desktop system. You will need to turn off the machine and place the drive into the slot. Connect the SATA data cable to the data port and the SATA power cable to the power port on the drive. Restart the machine to check if it has worked. Assuming it did, you can now secure the drive into the chassis and connect the drive to your desktop system.

Method 2: Use A USB Connector

Use a USB connectorYou can also utilize a USB adapter if you wish to connect the SSD without having to open up your system. Opt for a USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 adapter based on the port available to you. Simply connect the SATA end of the cable to the drive and plug the USB3 into the computer. This will establish the connection and you will be able to view the additional storage on your computer. This method doesn’t require you to switch off the system.

Method 3: Use A Removable Case

Use a Removable case12It is the same as the above one, the only difference is that here we avail an entire case to store the drive. These cases have SATA and power connectors inside. You just need to place the hard drive into the case and attach it to the system with a USB cable. You would need to buy a 2.5-inch laptop hard drive case as the 3.5-inch ones are also available in stores. These cases will store your SSDs properly and protect them from any damages due to falls or spillage. You can also use this as additional storage for your laptop.

Method 4: Use A Docking Station

Use a Docking StationThis is one of the most useful but expensive choices. Docking stations allow you to connect multiple drives in a single system. They are available in slots for 2.5-inch disks and 3.5-inch disks. You can utilize the station to connect to multiple systems or even exchange data between two drives. However, these stations are not as portable as other options but provide more functionality when compared to those above.

Final Word

I hope this article has answered your question of can you use a laptop hard drive on a desktop. The above methods provide you with simple solutions to mount your drive on a desktop or apply external options to make the connection.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Azad Shaikh

Azad Shaikh

Azad Shaikh is an internet geek at heart. From reviews about computer components to playing X-box one games, Azad takes pleasure in writing about anything and everything about computers. He is a computer engineering graduate and certified ethical hacker. In his leisure time, he reads and explores the internet.

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