How to Transfer Files to a New Mac Manually

Step by step

1. 2 min

   Organize your source data

   Clean up your source Mac by deleting temporary files and empty folders. Consolidate documents, photos, and music into centralized locations to streamline the transfer process.

   Note: Empty the Trash before starting to reduce transfer time.
2. 5 min

   Transfer data via AirDrop

   Ensure both Macs are on the same Wi-Fi network and Bluetooth is active. Select files on the source Mac, right-click, select Share, and choose AirDrop to send items directly to the new Mac.

   Note: AirDrop is optimal for small to medium file batches under 50GB.
3. 1 min

   Format your external drive

   Connect your external SSD to the source Mac and open Disk Utility. Select the drive in the sidebar, click Erase, and ensure the format is set to APFS to ensure full compatibility with macOS file systems.

   Note: Ensure the external drive has enough capacity to hold your entire home directory.
4. 3 min

   Copy files to the external drive

   Open Finder and drag your folders from the User directory onto the external drive. Wait for the copy progress bar to disappear, then right-click the drive icon and select Eject before disconnecting.

   Note: Avoid copying System or Library folders to prevent permission conflicts on the new machine.
5. 1 min

   Import files to the new Mac

   Connect the external drive to the new Mac. Open the drive in Finder and drag your data into the corresponding folders in your new User directory, such as Documents, Downloads, or Pictures.

6. 30 sec

   Verify iCloud synchronization

   Navigate to System Settings > Apple Account > iCloud. Toggle on the switches for iCloud Drive, Photos, and Desktop & Documents to pull cloud-stored data automatically without manual copying.

   Note: Ensure both machines are signed into the same Apple Account.