How do I connect a new SSD to computer to clone old SSD?

I have a Dell Precision 5510 with a 512 GB SSD. I have ordered a new 1 TB SSD from Dell, on which I want to clone my 512 GB drive. I'm using EaseUS software for the cloning operation. I've contacted Dell and made sure I have the correct SSD on order. I have never done this before.

My question is, what device do I use to temporarily connect the new 1 TB drive to my laptop so the cloning can take place? I have two USB 3 ports. The new SSD is a Dell M.2 PCIe NVME Class 40 2280 Solid State Drive - 1 TB. The Dell part number is AA615520. The manufacturer part number is SNP112P/1TB. I've looked on Amazon and this device is the one I was thinking of buying, but I want to make sure it will work with the SSD I'm getting from Dell (help!). Thanks.

Amazon.com



If the device linked above is not compatible, here is a link to the Amazon search page that has more devices on it.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=m+2+usb+a...l_4givwwkg33_e

If you happen to have free space on an ordinary external drive, you shouldn't have to buy any new device......using imaging rather than cloning.

I understand that. I specifically want to clone my current drive and not just create an image. If it crashes, I want to be able to be up and running immediately. Thanks.

JEG in Raleigh said:

I understand that. I specifically want to clone my current drive and not just create an image. If it crashes, I want to be able to be up and running immediately. Thanks.

At first glance, it appears that the device you have picked out will work. But I have no personal experience with it and could be wrong. I use an enclosure similar to that for purposes other than cloning.

Ghot said:

An image will do that as well, and seems to have less problems.

Create the image, then restore it to the NEW SSD. Then set the new SSD aside for when you need it.

I recommend Macrium Reflect for full OS system images. Most on here use Macrium Reflect...
Macrium Software | Macrium Reflect Free





The following will make a complete OS system image backup, that will be bootable...











Lastly, that amazon link you provided in post #1 should work. The only spec I couldn't find for those DELL SSD's in whether they have M or B&M keys. I would imagine they do, but I couldn't find... proof.

The keys are the connectors on the end of the SSD. M and B&M are the most common.

Thanks very much. Another question. I have two CAD, CAD/CAM software packages on my computer.....Solidworks and AlphaCam and I have lots of special configurations set up in them that I don't want to have to re-set up. Will an image retain all my configuration settings for those programs and other software where I have customized my configurations?

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ignatzatsonic said:

At first glance, it appears that the device you have picked out will work. But I have no personal experience with it and could be wrong. I use an enclosure similar to that for purposes other than cloning.

Thanks

JEG in Raleigh said:

Will an image retain all my configuration settings for those programs and other software where I have customized my configurations?

Yes, as long as the image includes all partitions on which such information may be stored.