Installing Windows can sometimes hit a snag when you encounter the “This partition is too small” error message. This issue often crops up even after formatting the target hard drive partition. Let’s explore why this happens and how to fix it.
The error typically appears as: “This partition is too small. Make the size of this partition at least 10507 MB or select another partition.” Here are three effective methods to resolve this issue:
Method 1: Verify Partition Selection
Step 1: During the Windows installation process, carefully review the partition list. Ensure you’re selecting the primary partition, not a smaller system partition.
Step 2: Check the available space on each partition. The Windows installer displays this information. Avoid selecting partitions with space measured in megabytes (MB), as these are likely system reserved partitions.
Step 3: If all partitions are empty, consider deleting them to create a clean slate. Select each partition and click “Delete”. This leaves you with unallocated space.
Step 4: Click “New” to create a fresh partition. Ensure it has sufficient space for Windows installation (at least 20GB, preferably more).
Method 2: Clean the Partition Using Command Prompt
Step 1: At the Windows installation screen, press Shift + F10 to open Command Prompt.
Step 2: Enter the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
diskpart
list disk
select disk #
clean
exit
Replace # with the number of the disk you’re installing Windows on. This command wipes the selected disk clean, removing all partitions.
Step 3: Close Command Prompt and return to the installation screen. You should now see unallocated space. Create a new partition and proceed with the installation.
Method 3: Check for Hardware Issues
Step 1: If the error persists after trying the above methods, your SSD or HDD might have issues. Boot into your computer’s BIOS and check if the full drive capacity is recognized.
Step 2: If the BIOS shows the correct drive size but Windows installer doesn’t, try using a different SATA port on your motherboard or a different SATA cable.
Step 3: As a last resort, consider testing the drive in another computer. If the problem persists, the drive might be faulty and require replacement.
When changing partition sizes during Windows installation, remember that modifying existing partitions can lead to data loss. Always back up important data before making changes.
By following these methods, you should be able to overcome the “This partition is too small” error and successfully install Windows. If problems persist, consider seeking help from a professional technician or contacting your computer manufacturer’s support team.