How to Change GPT Partition to MBR Without Data Loss in Windows 10, 8, 7?

When users bought a new PC and want to format it with DVD/ CD even without going through the recovery partition then, they may come across an error message. The error says that they cannot install the Windows in that partition as it is in GPT format. This means the GPT partition needs to be converted in MBR format.

So, read the article and know the best solution to change GPT partition to MBR in Windows 10, 8, 7 etc.

We’re sure you’re surprised by the fact

Since GPT and MBR are not common terms that we hear every day. So, let’s understand the meaning of GPT and MBR before going to convert GPT partition to MBR in BIOS.

What are GPT and MBR?

GPT (GUID Partition Table) is the latest standard that is replacing MBR and it is integrated with the new UEFI systems. Its every partition is linked with a unique global identifier (GUID), a random identifier so that each partition in the world could have its specific and unique ID. GPT does not comprise limitations like MBR.

GPT-based units can be much larger, with size limits and it depends on the OS and its file system. In addition, GPT allows the almost unlimited number of partitions. GPT disks, use the latest Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) partition table.

MBR (Master Boot Record) is the standard that began to function in 1983 and still fully functional. One of the main limitations of this partition format is that the maximum size with which it can work is 2 TB (although by the software one can overcome it).

Another limitation is that the MBR can only work with 4 primary partitions thus, to create more than 4 users must resort to extended partitions. MBR disks utilize the standard legacy Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) partition table.

Now, the main question is how to change GPT partition to BIOS? The further section of this article comprises information about the best method to convert GPT partition to MBR in BOIS Window 10, 8, 7 etc.

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Techniques to Convert GPT Partition to MBR Without Data Loss

Users can convert a GPT partition disk to an MBR disk with multiple techniques and some of them are mentioned below. It is highly recommended to follow the instructions carefully and sequentially as any misstep may lead to permanent data loss.

So, follow the steps listed below to change GPT partition to MBR in BIOS in Windows 10, 8, 7 without data loss. Two safe and secure method listed below. Select one which bests suites for you and performs the steps:

1. Convert GPT Partition to MBR in BIOS Using Disk Management
2. Change GPT Partition to MBR in Windows 10, 8, 7 Using CMD

Technique 1. Convert GPT to MBR in BIOS Using Disk Management

Disk Management is installed by default on a Windows computer. So, directly execute the steps:

Note: This method is only applicable to Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, and Windows Vista. So, using this method you can change GPT partition to BIOS in Windows 8, 8.1, 7, vista only.

• Boot your Windows
• Click on Windows Start
• Navigate to the Control Panel
• Select Administrative Tools >> Computer Management
• Now, in the left menu, choose Storage >> Disk Management
• Hit a right-click on every partition from the disk that you need to convert from the GPT. You need to delete all the partitions from disk before you start the conversion procedure
• For this, highlight Delete Volume on every partition until the complete disk has unallocated space
• Hit a right-click on the disk and select Convert to MBR Disk
• After completing the process, you can create the partitions on new disk as per your requirements
• Eventually, close the Disk Management

Technique 2. Change GPT Partition to MBR Using CMD Windows 10, 8, 7

If you are unable to boot the Windows to run the Disk Management then, you can use Command Prompt to execute the conversion. Below is how to use CMD command to change GUID partition to MBR in BIOS easily:

• Insert Windows installation disc and restart the PC
• Boot from the disc via pressing any key in Press any key window
• Navigate to System Recovery Options
• Select the Command Prompt
• Now, type diskpart and hit the Enter button
• Next, type list disk and press Enter key
• Note the number of the disk (for instance: 3) you need to convert
• Then, type select disk 3 (Note: Here 3 is the number of GPT disk that is going to be converted into MBR). Hit Enter button
• Type clean and press Enter
• Now, type convert MBR and press Enter
• After this, your disk will start converting
• One can type exit and hit the Enter in the Command Prompt to exit
• In order to create new partitions via Command Prompt, follow the instructions mentioned:
• Type create partition primary and press Enter
• Type list volume and Hit Enter button
• Make sure that the new volume is selected before formatting the partition.
• Type format fs=ntfs query and press Enter
• After this, type exit and hit the Enter button

This procedure may take a little longer however, it is the best way to avoid data loss issues with partitions. There are several other third-party tools that promise the GPT to MBR conversion but, Microsoft has not admitted these tools officially.

I hope the above methods are helpful for you and capable to resolve your query on how to convert GPT partition to MBR in BIOS in Windows 10, 8, 7 etc.

Final Words

This technical page discloses multiple solutions to resolve the user query how to change GPT partition to BIOS. Now, users can simply install Windows on the MBR disk and in case if they encounter any kind of data loss then, Partition Recovery Tool is an ultimate approach get files back. It is a completely safe and secure way to convert GUID partition to MBR in BIOS without data loss in Windows 10, 8, 7 etc.

How to Convert GPT Partition to MBR Without Data Loss in Windows 10 – FAQ