Diskpart Move Unallocated Space: How to Resize C Drive Safely

Many Windows users search for Diskpart move unallocated space when the C drive becomes full. Before using Diskpart, it is important to understand what this tool can and cannot do.

Is It Possible to Move Unallocated Space Using Diskpart?

No, Diskpart cannot move unallocated space. Diskpart is limited to extending a partition only when the unallocated space is directly next to it.

If unallocated space is separated from the C drive by another partition, Diskpart will not work.

Fix: Use free tool IM-Magic Partition Resizer to move partition and then the location of the unallocated space will be moved accordingly at the same time.

Video: How to move unallocated space to extend C drive

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Why Diskpart Cannot Move Unallocated Space

  • Diskpart does not support partition relocation
  • Moving space requires shifting existing data blocks
  • Microsoft restricts Diskpart to reduce data loss risk

What to Do When Diskpart Cannot Extend C Drive or Move Unallocated Space

In most cases, Diskpart fails because the unallocated space is not adjacent to the C drive. The disk layout often looks like one of the following examples (the blocking drive may be D, E, or another letter):

C Drive → D Drive → Unallocated Space

C Drive → Recovery → D Drive → Unallocated Space

C Drive → EFI → D Drive → Unallocated Space

Solution #1: Move the D drive, or move the Recovery or EFI partition if required, using the free tool IM-Magic Partition Resizer.

Solution #2: Delete the D drive (only applicable when no Recovery or EFI partition exists).

Explanation: Diskpart cannot move unallocated space across another partition. The only way Diskpart can extend the C drive is when the unallocated space is directly next to it. Deleting the D or E drive will make the space adjacent, but this method causes permanent data loss.

If only a data partition such as D or E is blocking the unallocated space, you can move that partition safely using the free IM-Magic Partition Resizer. Alternatively, you may back up or clone the D or E drive to another disk and then delete it if you insist on using Windows built-in tools. (Copy Partition and Copy Disk in Partition Resizer offers free backup)

When a Recovery or EFI partition sits between the C drive and the unallocated space, Windows built-in tools cannot solve the problem. In this situation, using the free IM-Magic Partition Resizer is the safest and easiest solution.

Easier Solution: IM-Magic Partition Resizer (Free)

IM-Magic Partition Resizer is a free and safer alternative that can move unallocated space automatically and extend C drive without deleting partitions.

Benefits of IM-Magic Partition Resizer

  • Moves unallocated space to C drive
  • Extends system partition without data loss
  • No command-line knowledge required
  • Works on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Diskpart vs IM-Magic Partition Resizer

  • Diskpart: Built-in but very limited
  • IM-Magic Partition Resizer: Free, visual, and easier to use

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Diskpart move unallocated space to C drive?

No. Diskpart can only extend C drive if the unallocated space is directly adjacent.

Is Diskpart safe to use?

Yes, but incorrect commands can permanently delete partitions.

What is the best free tool to resize C drive?

IM-Magic Partition Resizer is one of the easiest free solutions available.

Conclusion

The search term Diskpart move unallocated space is common, but Diskpart cannot perform this task. For simple layouts, Diskpart may work, but for most users, IM-Magic Partition Resizer offers a safer and easier solution.