How to Install a 2.5' SATA SSD in a Desktop PC – Kingston Technology

It’s easy to install an 2.5" SATA into a desktop PC. We’ll show you how.

Before you make your purchase, be sure to confirm if you will need a cloning software. Kingston makes two versions of most SSDs: With Installation Kit and Drive Only. The version With Installation Kit includes a download code for the Acronis True Image disk cloning software, a USB 3.0 enclosure, and mounting bracket, screws, SATA cable, and power cable. You need the Installation Kit version if you are upgrading an old laptop from an old drive to a new SSD. You might go with the Drive Only option if you are building a new PC and installing a fresh OS and already have the mounting hardware. Note, the MacOS includes the Disk Utilities app for cloning so Acronis True Image will only be needed if you are running Windows and require cloning. If you don’t need the Installation Kit version, you might decide to go with the less expensive Drive Only version.

1. Remember to always refer to your computer’s manual before disassembling it or replacing any hardware.

2. As a precaution, prior to handling the SSD, touch an unpainted and grounded metal object or use an anti-static wrist strap to work in a static-safe environment.

3. Safely disconnect the power from the system.

4. Loosen and remove the computer case cover from the desktop.

5. Locate the SATA port on the motherboard. If you are using a 2.5” drive bay, detach the mounting bracket.

6. Attach the SSD by aligning the mounting screw holes on the bracket with the holes on the SSD and mount the SSD in the drive bay. If you are using a 3.5” drive bay, detach the mounting bracket. Attach the SSD by aligning the mounting screw holes on the bracket with the holes on the SSD. Locate an available 3.5” drive bay inside the desktop and install the SSD.

7. Attach one end of the SATA cable to the SSD and the other end to the SATA connector on the motherboard.

8. Take the SATA power cable that is connected to the power supply and attach it to the SSD. If there was not one connected, you can use the power cable included in
the Installation Kit version.

9. Put the computer case panel back onto the desktop.

10. Plug in the power cord and boot up your system.

[RIOTStyx]

Nice to see big companies actually focusing on the quality of their content and the simplicity of their tutorials. Thanks Kingston.

[furonable]

Thank you for getting straight to the point.

[SacredDaturana]

Amazing that they were able to miniaturize a Super Star Destroyer so much one could fit in your desktop chassis

[MrRafting]

Can I just say that this is a fantastic video? I've been using it for a while to help friends that don't know how to install one because it's quick and explains everything in a very computer-novice way.

[jazzyhands]

THANK YOU!!! I couldn’t figure out how to install a HDD either, as I had it plugged in to the PSU but couldn’t find where on the mobo. Appreciate this very mich

[Biittle]

I have a prebuilt stationary and had no idea how to go about expanding the memory. Thank you for the clear instructions

[Mathijsvanwijk]

Lol i just throw the ssd inside the case. Close case. Case closed.

[SofaKingA]

I didnt even know my pc came with brackets until I watched this video. Thanks for showing this perspective!

[Jhelopohi_PH]

Thank you Kingston! Buying a cable is quite expensive 😅

[stateofdecay]

fast without any extra jibber jabber, that what I like and that why I press the like button asap. Thank You!

[topusku]

If I may ask, which typeface were you using in the main text of the video?

[equinox]

Would a Crucial MX500 500GB 3D NAND SATA 2.5" Internal SSD fit on a GIGABYTE Z390 GAMING X Motherboard? Please help.

[garfeldi]

how do i connect it to the power supply?

[akashtechdeveloper]

Wow ssd by watching this video my SSD working wirelessly

[CollieMalinois]

lol. this save so much time as we had the same phanteks p400 case

[youwillsucceedrlz]

Hmm my case has a place for a mount but the mounts not there can I just screw the ssd to it... it dont have internal moving parts so 👀 imma just wing it

[velidmadzak]

do I need any power cable adapter for a 2.5 inch ssd?

[inkumario]

can the screws that do conduct electricity as they metal unpainted can fry the ssd ? my case is all metal and has a little elecricity in case it always had it wich is fine pc works normal and hdd was in it now i think to put ssd off the hdd metal mount and just off on a papper without screws to hold it touching any metal case

[__-fixg]

is that a usa powercord? looks so different compared EUs.

[alienc]

Instructions unclear my pc is now holding me hostage