I'm new to computer tinkering and trying to remove my laptop's hard drive to replace it with a new SSD, but I'm stuck. I can't find any clear instructions in the manual, and videos don't seem to match my laptop's internals. The hard drive looks different from the diagram in the manual too. I've attached a picture for reference. Any advice on how to safely remove it? Thanks in advance!
4 Answers
Look at the other side of the laptop too; there might be screws securing the drive from that side. You can search for the part number from your hard drive, as it could lead you to images online showing the mounting points. That'll give you a clearer idea of where to look for screws.
First, take a good look at the blue plastic enclosure around the drive. Check if there's a way to unclip it or if a screw needs to be removed. Don't just yank the whole thing out, as it's likely connected on the sides. Carefully slide it out after unfastening any clips. Also, if there’s a ribbon cable on the left with a purple tab, you’ll need to lift the latch and pull that out too.
This service guide might help you out! It looks like your laptop model might be an HP Pavilion 14, possibly the X360. Page 37 has instructions on drive removal that could be useful for you. Here's the link: [HP Service Guide](https://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c06523509.pdf)
Check that little screw in the lower left of your picture; it might be a locking screw. After you remove it, try sliding the drive sideways to get it out. Also, make sure you've cloned your data from the HDD to the SSD already, just in case!
I tried looking for any clips or screws on the plastic part, but it seems stuck! I’ve gently tried sliding it from every angle, but it won’t budge.