Reference number: CH000649

Can I put a laptop hard disk drive in a desktop computer?

Question:

Can I put a laptop hard disk drive in a desktop computer?

Answer:

It is possible to connect a 2.5" (2 1/2") laptop hard disk drive into a 3.5" (3 1/2") desktop with additional accessories often running between $10 and $20 US dollars. A user will need to purchase a laptop conversion kit or adapter that will include a small PCB that connects to the laptop hard drive and has a standard 40 pin IDE connector and power connector on it.

Because this will also be a non standard upgrade for a desktop computer if you plan on keeping this hard drive in the desktop computer and are not just using it to backup or transfer information you will also need a mounting bracket to put the 2.5" drive in a 3.5" bay or a 5.25" (5 1/4") bay.

Where do I find these components?

Many of your local computer retailers and stores will carry these converters or kits to do this. If you are unable to find a local retailer who sells this product there are hundreds of places on the Internet to purchase these, simply do a search for "laptop to desktop hard drive converter" in your favorite search engine.