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How to Remove a Computer Hard Drive in 6 Easy Steps

How to Remove a Computer Hard Drive

in 6 Easy Steps

Removing a hard drive from a computer for professional data recovery services, such as those offered by DriveSavers, is often a necessary step when dealing with data loss. It can also be useful when upgrading storage or replacing a failed drive.

Whether you’re working with a desktop or a laptop, the process is generally straightforward if you follow the correct steps. This guide explains how to take a hard drive out of a computer safely and highlights important precautions when handling both hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs).

Know What Kind of Storage You Have

HDD or SSD

Before you get started, it’s important to know whether your device uses a removable hard drive or embedded storage. Traditional HDDs and SSDs in computers are removable and replaceable. They connect in the system with standard cables or slots and can be safely removed for upgrades, replacement, or data recovery.

Embedded Storage

However, some devices—especially ultra-thin laptops, MacBooks, Chromebooks, and tablets—use embedded storage, such as eMMC chips, which are permanently soldered to the motherboard. Embedded storage can’t be removed or swapped out like a standard drive. If you’re unsure what you have and need to send it in for professional data recovery service, we recommend sending the entire laptop, checking your device’s manual, or asking a service provider before disassembling it. Attempting to remove embedded storage yourself can cause permanent damage to the device and the data.

How to Remove a Hard Drive in 6 Easy Steps

Once you’re sure you have a removable HDD or SSD, you’re ready to get started. Here’s what you will need, and a step-by-step guide on how to remove a hard drive from a computer.

What You Will Need

Screwdriver with small bits

Container to hold the screws

Anti-static wrist strap, for grounding yourself – Optional

Anti-static bag or baggie to place the hard drive

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Power Down Completely

Shut down your computer fully and unplug the power cable. If you’re removing a laptop drive, it’s a good idea to remove the battery too, if possible.

Step 2: Ground Yourself

Static electricity can damage sensitive electronics. Touch a metal surface to discharge any static or use an anti-static wrist strap if you have one.

Step 3: Open the Case or Back Panel

For a desktop, you’ll typically need to remove the side panel with a screwdriver. On a laptop, you’ll either open a dedicated drive bay or remove the entire back panel, depending on the model.

Step 4: Locate the Hard Drive

Find the hard drive you want to remove. Traditional HDDs are rectangular and usually sit in a metal drive cage. A 2.5-inch SSD looks similar but is thinner. Some SSDs, especially M.2 NVMe drives, resemble small sticks and are attached directly to the motherboard with a tiny screw.

Step 5: Carefully Disconnect Cables and Fasteners

If you have a standard HDD or SATA SSD, gently unplug the power and data cables, then unscrew any mounting brackets or slides. With some hard drives, such as the M.2 SSD, you will need to remove the small screw that holds it in place.

Step 6: Remove and Store the Drive Safely

Once everything is disconnected, slide or lift the drive out of its slot. If you’re sending your drive for data recovery, handle it gently and place it in an anti-static bag or protective container to avoid damage during shipping.

Preparing Your Drive for Professional Data Recovery

Now that you have removed the computer hard drive, proper packaging is essential to protect both the device and your data during transit—especially if you’re sending it to a professional data recovery service like DriveSavers.

How to Package Your Drive for Safe Shipping

Use a sturdy box: Choose a strong, durable shipping box. Do not use envelopes or flimsy packaging, as they provide little protection.

Wrap with care: Encase the drive in anti-static bubble wrap or foam padding to protect it from static electricity. Be sure all sides are well-cushioned to absorb shocks during transit.

Seal securely: Close the box tightly using heavy-duty packing tape to prevent it from opening during shipment.

Apply the label: Affix the free overnight shipping label provided by DriveSavers to the outside of the box.

Shipping Your Drive to DriveSavers

  • If you’ve already contacted DriveSavers, you should have received a free FedEx overnight shipping label.
  • If not, our Data Recovery Advisors are available 24/7 at 1 (800) 440-1904 to help you get started and issue a label.

Trusted Experts in Data Recovery

At DriveSavers, we’ve successfully recovered data from hundreds of thousands of damaged or failed devices—ranging from traditional HDDs and SSDs to soldered embedded storage using advanced techniques.

If your data is important, don’t take chances.

Call DriveSavers today—we’re ready to help you recover your data.

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DriveSavers Senior Marketing Manager
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