How to Convert/Change Basic Disk to Dynamic Disk

Basic Disk and Dynamic Disk: What's the Difference?

Computer hard disks are divided into two types, which are Basic Disks and Dynamic Disks. 

Both the Basic and Dynamic disks support MBR and GPT partition styles, meanwhile, some regular operations on Microsoft's Windows operating system are allowed, such as check the properties of a disk, partition, volume and assign drive letters to the disk volumes or partitions.

But there are some noticeable distinguishes between the two types of hard disks. If you are trying to do the following operations in the list, you must change the Basic Disk to Dynamic Disk.

1. Create and delete a simple volume, spanned volume, stripped volume, mirrored volume and RAID-5.
2. Extend a simple volume or spanned volume.
3. Remove a mirror from a mirrored volume
4. Break the mirrored volume into two volumes.
5. Repair mirrored volumes or RAID-5 volumes.
6. Reactivate a missing or offline disk.

Conversion Between Basic Disk and Dynamic Disk: How Many Ways Are Available?

There are three ways available to convert the Basic Disk to Dynamic Disk in Windows 10/8/7 & Windows Server.

1. Windows Disk Management
2. Windows Command Prompt
3. Third-party partition magic software

What's the Best Way to Convert Basic Disk to Dynamic Disk?

Which way should you give the first try? Windows Disk Management program is easy to access but your data on the Basic Disk will be lost during the conversion. In addition, Windows Command Prompt provides an all-in-one solution to manage hard drives in every way, but it's much higher leveled and only advanced computer users could handle it.

All in all, regarding the aspects of ease of use and data safety when converting the Basic Disk to Dynamic Disk, EaseUS Partition Master is the best choice. First of all, only a click is required so users don't need to worry about their poor computer skills. Second, it ensures the least chance of data loss in the progress compared with the solutions of using Disk Management and cmd.

Guide: How to convert Basic Disk to Dynamic Disk in Windows 10/8/7?

Step 1. Right-click the Basic Disk and select "Convert to dynamic disk".

Step 2. Click "OK" when the popup message appears.

Step 3. On the home menu, click "Apply" to confirm the disk conversion from the Basic to Dynamic.