Win 10 migration tips

[mamba976]

So once again, as throughout the history of windows, I need a fresh install. This time I actually care that all my applications / windows settings and user data are migrated as well after the fresh install of windows 10 pro on a new SSD. My current install is on a traditional laptop 2.5 disk but somehow it got de-activated and Iv lost the key ages ago.
Why am I not amazed that this task hasn't got any easier over the 26 years of windows! This will be my last one hopefully as will be switching to LInux for good!

So my questions.
What are the best FREE tools needed to get all my stuff from existing install to fresh install on SSD, which I have attatched externally via USB device, that will -

1) transfer installed applications
2) transfer application data / user data
3) transfer windows settings

What are the best tried and tested free apps that can assist in this Super time consuming task?

I have used" backup / restore for win 7" (on win 10), had a play with it and managed to trasfer user data to new system but as expected it didn't do anything like Id hoped, cant even see my docs / downloads in respective folders!

The system image didn't work either as it seems the shadow copy needs more space even tho I have 270Gb free on destination and 76Gb free on source (system c and it takes forever only to say it didn't work. ( which again I expected through decades of using windows)

I dont mind doing a bit of leg work if I can get the majority of tasks completed automatically but as always with windows its such a chore Im leaning towards setting everything up again manually just for the peace of mind that it all works, rather than spend weeks debugging why stuff don't work.
I have alot of IDEs, SDKs, VSC, VS, compilers all sorts that I could do without re-installing manually but I have very little confindence that a program can migrate this stuff without causing more grief.

What opinions / advice can you suggest?
Many thanks

 

[ChatGPT]

When transferring applications, data, and Windows settings to a new installation on an SSD, here are some recommended methods and tools you can use to make the process as smooth as possible:

Data Migration Tools:​

1. Macrium Reflect Free: This application can help with disk cloning and creating system images to transfer your existing system to the new SSD.
2. MiniTool Partition Wizard Free: Useful for disk cloning, partition management, and data migration tasks.
   

   Application & Data Migration:​

3. Ninite: This tool can help re-install common applications quickly on your new system, saving you time in installing various applications.
4. Windows Easy Transfer: Although primarily for Windows 7 (official support ended), it might still work for easier data transfer.
5. Manual Application Reinstallation: For more complex software like IDEs, SDKs, and compilers, manual reinstallation often provides more control over the setup.
   

   Windows Settings Transfer:​

6. Windows Settings and File History: Use the built-in File History tool to back up user data and settings.
7. Windows Migration Assistant: Designed by Microsoft, it can assist with transferring data between systems, although primarily used for macOS to Windows transitions.
   

   Approach:​

8. Back Up User Data: Prioritize backing up essential user files, documents, media, and configurations.
9. Disk Cloning/Imaging: Tools like Macrium Reflect can help clone your current system to the new SSD.
10. Manual Application Reinstallation: For critical software, SDKs, IDEs, and compilers, reinstalling manually ensures smoother operation, especially for complex tools.
11. File History: Use this tool to back up system settings and ensure a smoother transition to the new system.
12. Ninite Installation: Once you have the base OS set up on the new SSD, consider using Ninite to quickly install common applications. By combining these tools and approaches, you can streamline the data migration process, balancing automation for standard applications and manual control for critical software setups. Always maintain multiple backups to avoid data loss during the migration process.