You can connect a 2.5" (2 1/2") laptop hard drive into a 3.5" (3 1/2") desktop with additional accessories often running between $10 and $20. A laptop conversion kit or adapter includes a small PCB that connects to the laptop hard drive and has a standard 40 pin IDE connector and power connector.

Because keeping this hard drive a non-standard upgrade for a desktop computer, you’ll need a special 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?

  • How to copy information from one computer to another.
  • Hard drive help and support.