Moving files around is something we all do, but when it comes to shifting entire folders, documents, or even programs between drives on Windows 11, many users get confused. Whether you’ve added a new SSD for faster performance, want to free up space on your system drive (C:), or simply need better organization, knowing how to move files from one drive to another on Windows 11 easily can save you time and prevent headaches.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk through multiple methods — from simple drag-and-drop to advanced settings — so you can pick the one that works best for your needs.
🔑 Key Takeaways
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Windows 11 offers several ways to move files between drives: drag-and-drop, cut-and-paste, File Explorer commands, or third-party tools.
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Moving files can free up space on your system drive and improve PC performance.
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You can also move installed apps, user folders (like Documents and Downloads), and even entire libraries to another drive.
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Backing up before moving large or sensitive files is always recommended.
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Each method has its pros and cons — we’ll cover them all with step-by-step instructions.
Why Move Files from One Drive to Another in Windows 11?
Before jumping into the how, let’s answer the why. Some common reasons include:
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Freeing up space on your C: drive (which often stores the operating system).
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Improving speed by moving files to an SSD.
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Organizing data — for example, separating work and personal files.
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Backing up important files to another drive for security.
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Preparing for upgrades when switching to a new storage device.
Think of it like rearranging furniture in your home: the goal isn’t just to move stuff around, but to make your space more efficient and comfortable.
Methods to Move Files Between Drives in Windows 11
There’s no single “best” way to do this — it depends on what type of files you’re moving, how big they are, and whether they’re system-related. Below, we’ll cover every practical option.
Method 1: Drag and Drop in File Explorer
This is the simplest and most intuitive method.
Steps:
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Open File Explorer (
Win + E). -
Navigate to the file or folder you want to move.
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Click and hold the item, then drag it to the destination drive in the left-hand sidebar.
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Release the mouse button to drop it into the new location.
👉 Tip: If you want to copy instead of move, hold Ctrl while dragging.
Method 2: Cut and Paste
Sometimes dragging isn’t convenient, especially for large folders. In that case, use the Cut and Paste method.
Steps:
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Right-click on the file or folder you want to move.
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Select Cut.
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Go to the destination drive.
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Right-click inside the folder and choose Paste.
This method ensures the file is moved, not duplicated.
Method 3: Using the “Move to” Option in File Explorer Ribbon
Windows 11’s File Explorer offers a direct Move to button.
Steps:
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Open File Explorer.
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Select the file(s) or folder(s).
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Click the … (More options) menu on the toolbar.
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Choose Move to → Choose location.
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Select the destination drive and confirm.
This is handy for bulk moves.
Method 4: Move User Folders (Documents, Downloads, Pictures, etc.)
Windows 11 allows you to move entire user folders without breaking shortcuts.
Steps:
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Right-click on a user folder (e.g., Documents, Downloads).
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Select Properties.
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Go to the Location tab.
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Click Move and select a new drive.
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Confirm with Apply.
Now all future files for that folder will automatically save to the new location.
Method 5: Move Installed Apps to Another Drive
Running out of C: drive space because of big apps or games? You can move them without reinstalling.
Steps:
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Press Win + I to open Settings.
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Go to Apps > Installed apps.
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Find the app you want to move and click the three dots (…).
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Select Move.
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Choose the new drive and click Move again.
⚠️ Note: Not all apps support this option (some must be reinstalled).
Method 6: Change Default Save Locations
Instead of moving files manually every time, you can tell Windows to save new files directly to another drive.
Steps:
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Press Win + I to open Settings.
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Go to System > Storage.
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Scroll down and click Advanced storage settings → Where new content is saved.
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Change default save locations for apps, documents, music, pictures, videos, and more.
This prevents clutter on your main drive in the future.
Method 7: Using Command Prompt (For Advanced Users)
If you’re comfortable with commands, this can be faster.
Example Command:
This moves the file from C: to D: instantly.
Method 8: Use Robocopy for Bulk File Transfers
For large-scale moves, Robocopy (a built-in Windows tool) is more reliable.
Example Command:
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/MOVE→ Moves files and deletes from the source. -
/E→ Moves subfolders too.
Great for backing up or reorganizing large directories.
Method 9: Third-Party Tools
Sometimes, Windows tools aren’t enough. Third-party apps like EaseUS Todo PCTrans, AOMEI Backupper, or TeraCopy offer:
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Faster transfer speeds.
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Error handling for failed moves.
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Options to migrate apps and settings seamlessly.
If you’re moving hundreds of GBs, these tools save time and frustration.
Tips for Moving Files Safely
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Backup before moving — especially if files are important.
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Check available space on the destination drive.
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Avoid interruptions (don’t shut down or unplug during transfer).
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Organize folders before moving for easier navigation.
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Use SSDs for speed — moving to an SSD makes apps launch much faster.
Common Issues and Fixes
❓ Files won’t move because they’re in use
Close the program using the file or restart your PC.
❓ Insufficient permissions error
Run File Explorer as Administrator.
❓ Transfer is too slow
Use a wired connection (for external drives), or try Robocopy for large moves.
❓ Can’t move installed software
Some apps must be uninstalled and reinstalled to the new location.
Comparison: Which Method Should You Use?
| Method | Best For | Difficulty | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drag & Drop | Small files/folders | Easy | Fast |
| Cut & Paste | Medium files | Easy | Fast |
| Move User Folders | Documents, Downloads, etc. | Medium | Fast |
| Move Apps | Large apps/games | Medium | Moderate |
| Robocopy | Large bulk transfers | Hard | Very Fast |
| Third-Party Tools | Complex migrations | Easy | Fast |
Conclusion
Learning how to move files from one drive to another on Windows 11 easily gives you more control over your computer’s storage, improves performance, and keeps things organized. From simple drag-and-drop to powerful tools like Robocopy, you now have multiple options depending on your needs.
The next time your C: drive fills up or you buy a new SSD, you’ll know exactly what to do. Start small with a test file, and once you’re comfortable, move larger sets of data or even entire apps.
FAQs
1. Can I move Windows system files to another drive?
No, system files should stay on the main drive (C:) unless you reinstall Windows on another disk.
2. What happens if I unplug the drive during file transfer?
The move will fail, and files may get corrupted. Always keep the drive connected until it’s done.
3. Can I move Microsoft Store apps to another drive?
Yes, many Microsoft Store apps can be moved via Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
4. Is copying better than moving files?
Copying creates duplicates, while moving transfers the file completely. Use moving when you want to free up space.
5. How do I move huge files faster?
Use SSDs, USB 3.0/3.1 external drives, or Robocopy/TeraCopy for faster and more reliable transfers.