Ultimate Guide: Clean Install Windows 10 on SSD

Installing Windows 10 on an SSD can significantly improve your system's performance. This guide covers both methods, whether you want to migrate your current OS without losing data or perform a clean installation.

How can I clean install Windows 10 on SSD?​

1. Install Windows 10 on SSD without losing data​

1. Connect and Format SSD:
   • Install the SSD appropriately on your PC using a SATA connection cable or an SSD slot.
   • Back up any personal data on the SSD to another drive.
   • Open Disk Management (Right-click on Start > Disk Management) and format the SSD to MBR or GPT according to Windows specifications.
2. Download and Install AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional:
   • Download and install the AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional software from their official website.
   • Launch the software.
3. Migrate OS:
   • In AOMEI Partition Assistant, click Clone > Migrate OS in the toolbar.
   • Select the unallocated space on your target SSD and click Next.
   • Adjust the partition size if needed and click Next.
   • Click Apply on the upper left and hit Proceed to start the migration.
4. Reboot and Boot from SSD:
   • Reboot your computer.
   • Enter BIOS by pressing the BIOS key (F2, Del, F10, or F12) during startup.
   • Set the SSD as the first boot device in the Boot Manager.
   • Save and exit BIOS.

This method helps you transfer your current Windows installation from HDD to SSD without needing to reinstall Windows, preserving your data and settings.

2. Perform SSD Clean Install Windows 10 (data loss)​

1. Create a Windows 10 Installation USB:
   • Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's website.
     
   • Run the tool and select Create installation media for another PC.
     
   • Choose language, edition, and architecture, then select USB flash drive.
     
   • Insert a USB flash drive (at least 8GB) and complete the process.
2. Install SSD:
   • Install the SSD in your computer and ensure it's properly connected.
3. Boot from USB Drive:
   • Plug the USB drive into the computer.
   • Reboot and press the BIOS key (F2, Del, F10, or F12) to enter BIOS settings.
   • Navigate to Boot Manager and set the USB drive as the first boot device.
   • Save and exit BIOS.
4. Windows Installation:
   • Select language, time, and keyboard layout in Windows Setup, then click Next.
   • Click Install Now.
   • Enter your product key or click I don’t have a product key.
   • Select the Windows 10 edition you wish to install.
   • Accept the license terms and click Next.
   • Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
   • Select the SSD for installation and click Next.
5. Complete Setup:
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
   • Once installation is complete, the system will reboot several times.
   • Re-enter BIOS and set the SSD as the first boot device if needed.

This method does a fresh installation of Windows 10 on your SSD, ensuring a clean and optimized system.

Common Issues and Fixes​

Error 1: Can’t install Windows 10 on SSD​

• GPT/MBR Partition Style Error:
  • If you encounter errors regarding GPT or MBR, convert the disk format using AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional.
  • Alternatively, change the boot mode in BIOS to match the partition style (switch to UEFI for GPT or Legacy BIOS for MBR).

Error 2: SSD won’t boot after Windows 10 installation​

• Fix Boot Issues:
  • Ensure the SSD is set as the first boot device in BIOS.
  • Make the system partition active using Disk Management.
  • Rebuild the MBR using AOMEI Partition Assistant or similar software.

These solutions provide a comprehensive guide to installing Windows 10 on an SSD, ensuring both data preservation and clean installation options.