How to Move Files from SSD to HDD on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Table of Contents

📌 Quick Summary (Key Takeaways)

Moving files from SSD to HDD in Windows 11 helps free up SSD space and organize storage.
You can transfer files manually, set default save locations, or use libraries to manage storage efficiently.
Large files like videos, photos, or games are best stored on HDDs, while Windows and frequently used apps should stay on the SSD for speed.
Methods include:
1. Copy-paste manually via File Explorer
2. Change default save locations in Windows Settings
3. Move installed apps or games
4. Redirect Windows libraries (Documents, Pictures, etc.)
5. Use third-party backup/move software

So, your SSD is running out of space, and you still have that huge folder of movies, photos, or games sitting there? Don’t worry—you don’t have to delete them. Instead, you can move files from your SSD to HDD in Windows 11 easily.

Think of your SSD as a sports car (fast but with limited space) and your HDD as a moving truck (slower but with much more room). By moving files strategically, you’ll get the best of both worlds: speed where you need it, and storage where it counts.

This guide will walk you through multiple methods step by step, so you can choose the one that fits your needs best.

Why Move Files from SSD to HDD?

Not sure if you should move files at all? Here’s why it makes sense:

⚡ SSDs are faster but smaller – ideal for Windows and essential apps.
📦 HDDs are larger but slower – better for storing large files like videos, music, backups, and games.
🧹 Free up SSD space to keep Windows 11 running smoothly.
💾 Avoid “low disk space” warnings that can slow performance.

Step 1: Check Your Storage Situation

Before moving anything, let’s see what’s taking up space.

Press Win + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Storage.
Review what’s using space (Apps, Pictures, Documents, etc.).

👉 This will help decide what to move (e.g., movies, photos, or large games).

Step 2: Move Files Manually with File Explorer

The simplest way is to drag and drop files.

Press Win + E to open File Explorer.
Navigate to your SSD drive (usually C:).
Select the files or folders you want to move (e.g., Downloads, Movies).
Right-click → Cut (or press Ctrl + X).
Go to your HDD drive (usually D: or E:).
Right-click → Paste (or press Ctrl + V).

✔️ Done—your files are now on the HDD.

⚠️ Tip: Use Cut instead of Copy, or you’ll end up with duplicates.

Step 3: Change Default Save Locations

To prevent clutter on your SSD, set new files to save directly on your HDD.

Open Settings (Win + I).
Go to System > Storage > Advanced storage settings.
Click Where new content is saved.
Change each option (Documents, Music, Pictures, Videos, Apps) to your HDD drive.

👉 Now new files will save to your HDD automatically.

Step 4: Move Installed Apps or Games

Some apps and games take up gigabytes of space. Luckily, Windows 11 lets you move them.

Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
Find the app/game you want to move.
Click the three dots (…) > Move.
Select your HDD drive.

👉 Works for most Microsoft Store apps and some games.

Step 5: Redirect Windows Libraries

Windows has built-in folders like Documents, Downloads, Pictures, Music, Videos. You can redirect them to your HDD.

Open File Explorer.
Right-click the folder (e.g., Documents) → Properties.
Go to the Location tab.
Click Move → Choose a folder on your HDD → Apply.

✔️ Now whenever you save files to Documents, they’ll go straight to your HDD.

Step 6: Use Third-Party Tools (Optional)

If you want automation, try tools like:

EaseUS Todo PCTrans – move apps and files.
AOMEI Backupper – migrate large folders.
MiniTool Partition Wizard – manage space between SSD and HDD.

⚠️ These are optional—manual methods are usually enough.

Step 7: Keep Windows and Essential Apps on SSD

Don’t move everything! Keep these on your SSD for speed:

Windows 11 system files
Drivers
Frequently used apps (e.g., browser, Office apps)
Games that benefit from faster loading

Move media, backups, installers, and archives to your HDD.

Best Practices for SSD + HDD Storage Management

Use SSD for speed, HDD for storage.
Regularly clean junk files.
Don’t fill your SSD completely (leave at least 10–15% free).
Back up important files before moving.
Label your folders clearly on the HDD.

Table: What to Keep on SSD vs. HDD

Storage Type	Best For	Avoid Storing
SSD	Windows OS, drivers, essential apps, modern games	Massive movies, archives, backups
HDD	Videos, music, photos, large documents, old games	Windows system files, critical apps

Conclusion

Moving files from SSD to HDD in Windows 11 is not only easy but also smart. By freeing up your SSD, you’ll keep your PC running fast while still having plenty of space for storage on your HDD.

We covered manual moves, changing default save locations, moving apps, redirecting libraries, and using third-party tools.

Remember: keep Windows and critical apps on the SSD, and shift large files to the HDD. That way, your computer stays both fast and spacious.

FAQs About Moving Files from SSD to HDD in Windows 11

1. Will moving files from SSD to HDD slow them down?

Yes, but only when accessing them. For large videos or backups, it doesn’t matter much. Keep critical apps on SSD.

2. Can I move installed programs from SSD to HDD?

Yes—through Settings > Apps > Move, or by reinstalling them on the HDD.

3. Is it safe to move my Documents and Downloads folders to HDD?

Yes. Use the Location tab in Properties to move them safely.

4. Should I install games on SSD or HDD?

Install modern, large games on SSD for faster loading. Use HDD for older or less demanding games.

5. Can I move Windows 11 itself from SSD to HDD?

Not recommended—Windows runs best on SSD. Only move personal files, not the operating system.