8 Easy Ways to Move Files from One Mac to Another

How do I transfer files from one Mac to another?

Transferring files from one Mac to another can be done in several ways, depending on factors like location, whether both Macs are signed into the same iCloud account, and the volume of data you're moving. The method you choose will also depend on the purpose of the transfer—are you setting up a new Mac or just moving a few files?

This guide covers eight different methods to help you move files from one Mac to another:

• AnyViewer: Ideal for quick file transfers between Macs located remotely, AnyViewer offers seamless remote file transfer functionality.
• Migration Assistant: Perfect for transferring all your data when setting up a new Mac, Migration Assistant helps you migrate your entire setup.
• Target Disk Mode or Share Disk Mode: By connecting two Macs with a cable, you can directly transfer files between them using these modes.
• AirDrop: With both Macs on the same Wi-Fi network and Bluetooth enabled, AirDrop allows you to wirelessly send files in just a few simple steps.
• External Hard Drive or USB Device: For Macs not connected to a network, an external hard drive or USB stick provides a reliable alternative for file transfers.
• File Sharing: When both Macs are on the same Wi-Fi network, you can easily transfer files using the built-in File Sharing feature.
• Time Machine: If you've set up Time Machine backups, restoring files from one Mac to another is straightforward.
• iCloud: With both Macs signed into the same iCloud account, you can upload files to iCloud Drive and easily access them from the other Mac.

How to move files from one Mac to another [8 methods]

Here are the detailed steps of copying files from one Mac to another using the eight methods.

Method 1. AnyViewer

AnyViewer is a robust remote desktop tool designed to facilitate secure and efficient file transfers over the Internet. As a remote solution, it's ideal for transferring files across different networks, even when you're not physically located in the same place.

Here are the key benefits of using AnyViewer for transferring files between Macs:

• Instant and High-Speed Transfers: AnyViewer guarantees quick, reliable, and stable file transfers, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Whether you're transferring files from Mac to Mac, Windows to Mac, or Mac to Windows, AnyViewer supports multiple platforms, offering great flexibility.
• Dual Functionality: Besides file transfers, AnyViewer also enables remote desktop control, allowing you to manage apps, adjust settings, and troubleshoot while moving files, making remote work even more efficient.
• Enhanced Security: AnyViewer uses advanced encryption to protect your data during transfers, ensuring privacy and preventing data leaks.

Here's how to move files from one Mac to another using AnyViewer:

Step 1. Install AnyViewer on both Macs.

Step 2. Log into the app on each device using the same account credentials.

Step 3. On the local Mac, locate the remote Mac in the list and choose "File Transfer".

Step 4. In the file transfer manager, select the file you want to move and click the arrow to start the transfer. Alternatively, you can opt for "One-click control" to enable unattended remote access to the other Mac and access the file transfer manager from the toolbar during the session.

★Tips: For enhanced file transfer performance, consider upgrading to a Professional or Enterprise plan. These plans provide:

Faster Transfers – Speeds of up to 10 MB/s for quicker file movement.

Multi-Threaded Transfers – Support for up to 5 simultaneous file transfer threads, improving efficiency.

Unlimited File Transfers – No restrictions on the number of files you can transfer at once.

Larger File Support – Transfer single files as large as 1 TB, making it ideal for handling big data.

Method 2. Migration Assistant

Migration Assistant comes pre-installed on macOS, available both as a standalone app and as part of the setup assistant when initializing a new Mac. It's the perfect solution for transferring all your files, settings, and applications when switching to a new device.

Before you begin, keep these tips in mind:

• Update Both Macs: To ensure the best experience, make sure both Macs are running the latest macOS version. It's recommended to update them before starting the transfer.
• Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure both Macs are connected to Wi-Fi. If either Mac is running macOS El Capitan or earlier, they must be on the same network. For later macOS versions, the network doesn't need to be the same.
• Disable Security Software: Temporarily turn off any antivirus software, firewalls, or VPNs, as they might interfere with the transfer process. You can enable them again once the transfer is complete.

How to move all files from one Mac to another using Migration Assistant:

Step 1. On your new Mac, go to Finder > Applications > Utilities, then open Migration Assistant. You can also search for it using the Spotlight search tool. Double-click the app and click Continue. You may be asked for your admin password to proceed.

Step 2. When prompted, choose From a Mac, Time Machine backup, or Startup disk, then click Continue.

Step 3. You'll need to launch Migration Assistant on both Macs. Click Continue on your old Mac and grant permission if asked.

Step 4. On your old Mac, choose the option To another Mac, then click Continue.

Step 5. On your new Mac, you'll see your old Mac listed. Select it and click Continue.

Step 6. Check your old Mac for a security code. If a code appears, ensure it matches the one displayed on your new Mac before clicking Continue.

Step 7. On your new Mac, you'll see a list of items you can transfer, including applications, user profiles, files, and system settings. Select the boxes next to the items you want to move.

Step 8. Once you've made your selections, click Continue to begin the transfer. Depending on the amount of data and internet speed, this process may take several hours, so it's a good idea to let it run overnight if necessary.

Method 3. Target Disk Mode

Target Disk Mode allows you to connect two Macs via a USB or Thunderbolt cable, effectively turning the internal hard drive of an Intel-based Mac into an external drive for the other Mac. This method is perfect for transferring data quickly from an older Mac to a newer one.

Steps to use Target Disk Modeto move files between Macs:

Step 1. Use a Thunderbolt or FireWire cable to link the two Macs together.

Step 2. On the old Mac, navigate to Apple Menu > System Preferences > Startup Disk and select Target Disk Mode. This will restart the Mac, and a Thunderbolt icon will appear on the screen.

Step 3. On the new Mac, open Finder. The old Mac's internal hard drive will show up under the Locations section in the sidebar. From here, you can copy or move files from the old Mac to the new one.

Method 4. AirDrop

AirDrop is a file-sharing feature available on macOS that uses Bluetooth to detect nearby Apple devices and transfers files over a Wi-Fi connection. This makes it easy to share documents, videos, folders, and other files between Macs.

Before you begin moving files, make sure to:

• Enable Bluetooth on both Macs.
• Ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

To transfer files using AirDrop, follow these steps:

Step 1. Open Finder on both Macs and select AirDrop from the Favorites sidebar.

Step 2. In the AirDrop window, choose either "Contacts Only" or "Everyone" under "Allow me to be discovered by," depending on your preference.

Step 3. On the sending Mac, right-click the file, then select "Share" > "AirDrop."

Step 4. From the pop-up window, choose the receiving Mac, and the transfer will begin instantly.

Method 5. External storage device

One of the most straightforward methods for transferring files between MacBooks is by using an external storage device, such as a USB flash drive or an external hard drive. This method is particularly useful when you want to transfer large files or a large number of files without relying on network connections.

Step 1. Connect the external drive to the Mac from which you want to transfer files.

Step 2. Copy the desired files or folders onto the external drive, then right-click the drive to eject it safely.

Step 3. Disconnect the external drive and plug it into the target Mac.

Step 4. Finally, transfer the files from the external drive to the new Mac.

Method 6. File Sharing

macOS includes a built-in feature called File Sharing, found in the Apple Sharing utility, which allows Macs on the same network to transfer files and share content seamlessly.

Here's how to set it up:

Step 1. Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen.

Step 2. From the drop-down menu, choose "System Settings."

Step 3. In the sidebar, click on "General," then select "Sharing."

Step 4. Turn on "File Sharing" and click the "Info" button for additional options.

Step 5. Click the "Add" button at the end of the Shared Folders list to choose the folders you want to share with other Macs.

Step 6. On the second Mac, open Finder, then go to Go > Network.

Step 7. Locate the first Mac's name and click on it.

Step 8. Click Connect As and choose a login method (Guest, Registered User, or Apple ID).

Step 9. Enter your password and click Connect.

Step 10. Once connected, you can access and copy the shared files directly to the second Mac.

Method 7. Time Machine Backup

If you're worried about the security of wirelessly transferring sensitive files or find it too slow for large transfers, using Time Machine backups offers a faster and more reliable solution to move all your data from an old Mac to a new one. This method transfers your files, applications, preferences, and user accounts seamlessly.

To move files to a new MacBook with a Time Machine backup:

Step 1. Back up your old Mac (skip if you've already done this).

Step 2. Connect the Time Machine backup disk to your new Mac via USB (or plug in a USB flash drive).

Step 3. Restart your new Mac in macOS Recovery Mode.

Step 4. In the recovery options, choose "Restore From Time Machine Backup" and click Continue.

Step 5. Select your Time Machine backup disk, then click Continue.

Step 6. Choose the most recent backup and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transfer.

Step 7. After the transfer finishes, restart your new Mac and check the migrated files.

Method 8. iCloud storage

iCloud is a convenient and effective way to transfer data between Macs. As long as both Macs are signed into the same iCloud account, you can easily upload files to iCloud Drive and access them from the other device. However, keep in mind that iCloud comes with storage limitations, so you may need to monitor your available space.

To transfer data using iCloud, follow these steps:

Step 1. Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Preferences or System Settings.

Step 2. Next, choose Apple ID, then select iCloud. If prompted, enter your Apple ID credentials to sign in.

Step 3. Ensure iCloud Drive is enabled by checking the box next to it. This will allow you to store and sync files across all devices connected to your iCloud account.

Step 4. On your desktop, open a Finder window, click Go in the top menu, and select iCloud from the dropdown list. This will give you access to the files stored in your iCloud Drive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, moving files from one Mac to another can be easily accomplished using various methods, depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Whether you're using remote solutions like AnyViewer, utilizing Migration Assistant for complete system transfers, or opting for more direct methods like AirDrop or external storage, each option offers its unique benefits. By choosing the method that best fits your requirements, you can ensure a smooth and efficient file transfer experience.