Are there differences between using Media Creation Tool or Recovery Drive Utility when creating a USB recovery drive?

Question

I want to create a USB recovery drive to reinstall my Windows 10 on a new SSD. Sadly, Recovery Drive utility for Windows doesn't recognise my flash drive (32 GB: 4 GB reserved, 28 GB of free space). I tried different solutions from similar threads here, but none of them seemed to work.

However, Media Creation Tool recognises my flash drive and requires 8gb of free space.

If I use MCT to re-install Windows 10 on a SSD, would it be the same as using in-built utility that backs up my system files? Or can it bring some trouble? I have a digital license, but I'm still in doubt.

I'd really appreciate your help with this matter!

Answer 1

Hello HelenR., welcome to the Microsoft community, my name is Luiz Cruz, an independent consultant and I would be happy to help you.

To create a USB flash drive with Windows 10, please follow the steps below:

Download the tool according to the installed Windows 10 architecture. On here: https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=691209

Run the downloaded setup and click Create installation media for another computer;

Select the Language, then select the edition and architecture according to the installed Windows 10;

Connect the Pen Drive;

Click Next;

Select the USB Flash Drive option and click Next;

Click Finish;

Your thumb drive will be ready for Windows 10 installation, just boot it and install Windows 10.

Any questions, I am available.

See you!

Answer 2

Dear HelenR.,exactly that, it's like having the installation with a Windows 10 DVD media.

Any other questions I am available.

See you!

Answer 3

So if I do that, it will install the same fresh system, right? Just as if I re-installed Windows without a USB boot drive?