PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteIf your Windows PC won’t start, protect your files before trying repairs. First check for signs of a failing drive and locate any BitLocker recovery key. Then use Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) for lower-impact startup troubleshooting. Avoid resetting or reinstalling Windows until important files are backed up—or you have decided that the risk is acceptable. Recovery is not guaranteed, especially if the drive is physically damaged.
First, work out whether this looks like a startup problem or a failing drive
Note what happens when you press the power button: does the PC show no signs of power, reach the manufacturer logo, display a Windows error, or open a recovery screen? Also note any recent update, drop, liquid exposure, or unusual drive noise. These clues can help you choose a safer next step, but they do not diagnose the cause on their own.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
If the drive makes severe abnormal noises such as grinding, turn the PC off and stop trying to start it. Seagate warns that continued operation with grinding can make recovery harder. Not every sound means a drive is failing: Seagate notes that soft clicking can occur during normal hard-drive operation. See its guidance on identifying hard-drive sounds and troubleshooting an internal drive.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
If the PC starts and opens a Windows error or recovery screen, the problem may be with Windows startup rather than the drive itself. If it shows no signs of power, that alone does not establish whether your files remain readable. When the only copy of important files is on this PC, avoid repeated experiments and do not choose an option that resets, formats, or reinstalls Windows before considering how to protect the data.
#1 Best Overall
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Find the BitLocker recovery key before using recovery tools
BitLocker encryption can prevent access to files even when the storage drive is physically readable. Microsoft says some WinRE tools may require the BitLocker recovery key on an encrypted device. Use Microsoft’s instructions for finding your BitLocker recovery key before proceeding. If an employer or school manages the PC, contact its IT staff; the organization may control recovery settings or the key.
Try Startup Repair from Windows Recovery Environment
WinRE is Microsoft’s built-in environment for Windows recovery tools. Windows may open it automatically after failed starts. If it does not, Microsoft documents creating Windows installation media on another working PC, starting the affected PC from that media, and choosing Repair my PC. You may need the computer maker’s instructions to boot from USB; the exact controls vary by device. Use Microsoft’s Windows Recovery Environment guide for the available ways to enter WinRE.
Rank #2
- Easily store and access 5TB of content on the go with the Seagate portable drive, a USB external hard Drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
- In WinRE, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
- Select the Windows installation to repair if prompted, and provide the BitLocker recovery key if requested.
- Let Startup Repair scan for common startup problems, such as damaged system files or boot configuration errors, and attempt its repair.
Startup Repair can address some Windows startup problems, but it cannot fix every issue or repair a physically failing drive. Microsoft explains its scope in the Startup Repair guide. If it does not help, do not assume that a reset or reinstall is the next safe step for your files.
Keep Windows repair separate from file recovery
Some recovery actions change Windows or remove data. Microsoft recommends backing up important files before recovery, and its Windows recovery options guide describes choices such as uninstalling a recent update, System Restore, reset, and reinstall. Which choices are available can depend on the Windows version and the state of the PC.
Rank #3
- Easily store and access 1TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive.Specific uses: Personal
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop. Reformatting may be required for Mac
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
- Rollback or System Restore: Consider an option that addresses a recent update or system change only after reviewing Microsoft’s instructions for what it affects. Do not treat it as a copy of your personal files.
- Reset this PC: The “Keep my files” choice is not a substitute for making a separate copy of valuable data. Microsoft says this reset option removes apps and settings; review the Reset your PC guide before selecting a reset.
- Reinstall from installation media: Microsoft warns that reinstalling this way removes everything from the selected drive. Do not use it as a file-recovery method.
If your files exist nowhere else, pause before reset, formatting, or clean installation. Prioritize getting a copy of the files—or getting specialist advice—over making Windows boot again.
Copy files from a removed drive only if the hardware is compatible and healthy
If the drive is removable, appears healthy, and you can access it safely, connecting it to another working computer may let you copy files. Seagate describes a SATA-to-USB enclosure as one way to connect an internal SATA drive. That method is not universal: confirm the drive’s interface and physical dimensions before choosing an adapter or enclosure, and consult the PC maker’s service instructions before opening the device.
Rank #4
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
- Do not assume a SATA adapter will work with an NVMe drive. Confirm the exact drive type first.
- Do not try this method with soldered storage, a proprietary configuration, or a drive that may be physically damaged.
- Copy files to a separate healthy drive rather than saving recovered files back onto the original.
- If the drive is encrypted, you still need the BitLocker recovery key to access its files.
Seagate’s internal drive troubleshooting instructions support this connection method, not a universal laptop disassembly procedure. If you are unsure how to remove the drive safely, use the computer manufacturer’s model-specific guidance or ask a qualified technician.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsStop DIY attempts when the data is too valuable or the drive may be damaged
Seek professional recovery guidance if the drive is not detected after basic connection checks, makes severe abnormal noises, or contains files you cannot risk losing through further attempts. A provider may assess damaged storage, but no service can promise recovery for every drive or set of files. Seagate describes its Data Recovery Services and estimates a typical turnaround of 30 days from receipt at its lab; the company says actual timing varies with the damage, local regulations, parts availability, and shipping. Check regional availability, terms, and cost directly before choosing a service.
Best Value
- High capacity in a small enclosure – The small, lightweight design offers up to 6TB* capacity, making WD Elements portable hard drives the ideal companion for consumers on the go.
- Plug-and-play expandability
- Vast capacities up to 6TB[1] to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more
- SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps)
Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, according to Microsoft’s current WinRE guidance. That date does not change the immediate priority: protect the files before taking recovery actions that could remove them.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
