SymMover for Windows

Solid-state drives (SSDs) perform significantly faster than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). However, the price-to-capacity ratio of SSDs often limits their utility for users who require substantial storage space for programs, video files, or games. As a workaround, users frequently offload data and temporary folders onto an HDD, which can reduce the benefits of SSD performance. Furthermore, some software and games might fail to function optimally when data is stored on a slower HDD.

Moba's SymMover provides a solution by enabling users to move data from one drive to another while maintaining seamless access through a "junction" that links the original and new storage locations. This ensures programs and games run normally, even after being relocated to a secondary drive. SymMover also facilitates the efficient transfer of data back and forth, allowing users to prioritize their most-used files on the SSD and store less critical data on a high-capacity HDD.

SymMover's interface is intuitive, featuring parallel panes for Source and Destination folders. Users can select items individually or in bulk, with options to add, remove, or relocate files between the two drives. The tool's Web-based Help file offers detailed instructions and troubleshooting advice, making it easy for users of varying technical expertise to navigate.

In addition to its strengths, SymMover has some limitations. For instance, it only supports NTFS file systems, rendering it incompatible with FAT-formatted drives. It cannot move files actively in use or programs currently running. Moreover, it requires Administrator privileges for certain operations. Although SymMover can't relocate system-protected folders like "My Pictures," it can manage subfolders effectively. When moves fail, the tool provides log files explaining the reasons, enhancing its usability and transparency.

Updated features and alternatives

Since the release of SymMover, other tools have emerged with similar functionality but offer modernized features. One such alternative is Steam Library Manager (SLM), a specialized application for managing game libraries. While SymMover supports general file and folder movement, SLM focuses on relocating gaming files between drives. SLM provides a more tailored experience for gamers, including features like batch moving, backup creation, and game library synchronization across multiple storage devices. Unlike SymMover, SLM supports multiple file systems and boasts a cleaner, more dynamic user interface.

However, SymMover retains the advantage of versatility, as it can move non-gaming files and applications in addition to games. For users requiring a broader file management solution, SymMover is the better choice, whereas SLM excels for gaming-focused needs.

Practical implications

With SSD prices continuously declining, hybrid storage configurations have become increasingly common. Users frequently pair a small-capacity SSD for the operating system with a larger HDD for additional storage. Tools like SymMover and SLM offer practical solutions for optimizing this setup by allowing users to allocate storage space effectively while maintaining seamless access to their data.

In conclusion, SymMover remains a viable and efficient tool for users managing SSD and HDD configurations. Despite the emergence of alternatives like Steam Library Manager, SymMover's general-purpose approach and ease of use make it a valuable option for users seeking flexibility in managing storage across devices.

• Version 1.5.1510: ability to sort and change the folder view. New type of move and cleanup function.