Re: Will the HDD from my Alienware Aurora R11 work with an MSI motherboard? Is it locked to the Alienware motherboard?  Actually it will work just fine.  Although the HDD currently stores the configuration of Alienware system, it will automatically detect the new system spec and automatically adjust to it.  That is the benefit of Windows 10.  I have done this plenty of times moving HDD with Win 10 installed in one Dell PC to another desktop, either Dell or non-Dell.  The first time powering up Windows 10 need to think a little bit.  This is just like the end steps of Win 10 clean install when it adjusts to system spec (after installing the OS).  There will not be any conflict between the new config and old one from Alienware.  It is like you installed a video card then upgrade to a faster one.  OS will just download the new driver.  Do you need to wipe the HDD OS to install a new video card?  No, most people would not.   I do not think you need to wipe the HDD.  A simple transplant is the easiest way to go.  Of course if you are a purist wanting the cleanest install, you can either get a different HDD or wipe the current one.
I have decided to buy a new case and motherboard to help with cooling issues. I have all the components I need on the way. Will the HDD from my Alienware Aurora R11 work with an MSI motherboard? Is it locked to the Alienware motherboard?  Thanks all. 
Aurora 11, HDD, migrating to new case