Gptgen is a command-A command-line tool that converts a hard drive's partition scheme from the traditional MSDOS-style MBR (Master Boot Record) scheme to the modern GPT (GUID Partition Table) scheme, preserving all existing data on the disk. This tool must be run from the command line after downloading, as it is not a graphical interface application.
On Windows, to convert MBR to GPT without data loss using Gptgen, type "gptgen [-w] \\.\physicaldriveX" in the command line prompt, where X is the disk number you want to convert, and the [-w] option writes the generated GPT to the disk.
The MBR scheme has limitations, including a maximum of 4 primary partitions, which can be a challenge for users who want to install multiple operating systems. To overcome this, users can convert logical partitions to primary ones. However, the MBR scheme also has a capacity limit of 2TB, beyond which the excess space becomes unallocated and unusable.
The GPT partitioning scheme has no limitation on the number of primary partitions, as every partition is set as "Primary" and up to 128 partitions can be created. In contrast, the MBR scheme has a 2TB limitation. Additionally, GPT supports large capacity disks, unlike MBR.
Gptgen is a useful tool for converting disk partitions, but its command-line operation makes it less accessible to casual PC users. It lacks a graphical user interface, making it more suitable for advanced users. Unfortunately, some users have reported that Gptgen does not display additional unallocated space after conversion.
The software has limitations, including not supporting dynamic disks, which can be inconvenient for modern computer management. Additionally, the last update of Gptgen was several years ago, making it difficult to find technical support.
The Gptgen alternative - Qiling Disk Master Professional is a professional partition manager that allows converting MBR to GPT disk without data loss, similar to Gptgen, but with a cleaner and more user-friendly interface. It supports dynamic and RAID disks, making it easy for all users, even those new to the computer field, to manage the process. Additionally, after conversion, you can utilize the unallocated space directly using Qiling Disk Master.
Step 1. Install and launch Partition Assistant Pro, then pitch on the disk you want to convert, right-click it and select "Convert to GPT".
Step 2. Now the disk has immediately changed to GPT.
Tips:
①To convert the system boot disk between MBR and GPT styles, you'll need to enter the BIOS settings after the conversion is complete to ensure the system remains bootable.
②To convert a disk that doesn't contain Windows OS, you can use the free edition of Qiling Disk Master Standard.
Qiling Disk Master, a Gptgen alternative, offers various powerful features, including transferring an operating system to a new hard drive for upgrading, and creating a portable Windows 11 USB drive for flexible access.