Is it possible to replace a desktop hard drive with a laptop hard drive?

Dani: Is it possible to replace a desktop hard drive with a laptop hard drive?
My desktop hard drive failed and is not in computer heaven. 🙁 But I have a laptop that is unable to charge but the hard drive is perfectly fine. Is it possible to take the laptop hard drive and put inside the desktop? Obviously I wouldn’t be able to do it, but could a technician do it?

Answers and Views:

Answer by Jayson
No, they’re too small.

Answer by M α ╬ ╬
Typically a laptop hard drive will not be compatible with a desktop computer. If it WAS compatible, and you could get a technician to mount it, then yes, you could.

But in generally, you will not be able to do this.

Answer by Arie
Yes, it is possible. The laptop hard drive however is 2,5″, whereas a desktop hard drive is 3,5″, so you will need to use a special adapter to fit the hard drive into your computer case. I would however advise against using a laptop hard drive in a desktop computer. Laptop hard drives are most of the time a lot slower than their desktop counterparts which will therefore have a negative impact on the performance of your desktop computer. A new hard drive does not cost a lot at all, so instead of going through the trouble of screwing your laptop open, taking the hard drive out, finding an adapter, screwing the hard drive into your desktop computer, et cetera, I would just purchase a new 3,5″ hard drive.

Answer by evaohell
If it was sata yes, The only issues would be space…since computer cases are made for the larger hard drives, mounting it would be a small problem. Also, laptop hard drives are typically 5400rpm, which means they spin slower to conserve power…true, there are 7200 rpm drives, but it’s likely a 5400rpm drive.

Now, if it’s not sata, then you’ll have to find a laptop IDE to regular IDE adapter that as power as well..

but with hard drive prices so low, why bother? You can get a devent sized hard drive for less then $ 50.

Answer by Ricky
My first question to you would be, “what type of laptop harddrive is it” there are two types IDE, and SATA. IF its a IDE Harddrive, chances are you won’t be able to connect it direct because the IDE cable on your desktop wouldn’t fit on the laptop harddrive. But if its a SATA Harddrive on your laptop and Your Desktop Supports SATA you would however be able to connect the Harddrive Directly. So Yes and No depends on which Harddrive your laptop supports. When your technician checks it. He may say its not recommended but its up to you to use it or not. My Recommendation as a CompTia Tech would be if you are unable to purchase a new harddrive for your desktop then use laptop harddrive if supported by SATA. But remember the technician will however have to reload the entire operating system. So suggest to him to back up your data before any action is taken. All D best.