You may want to transfer files between two computers if you are replacing an old computer, or if you just want to have a backup copy of some files. There are several ways to easily share files between computers. The tricky part is figuring out the best way to transfer based on your needs. Factors like file size, download/upload speed, and convenience will impact your decision.
This article will go over four different ways to transfer data from one computer to another.
Transfers files with cloud storage
With stable internet connection and the right subscription, you can use cloud-based services to download and transfer files of virtually unlimited sizes from anywhere in the world.
What you need: A Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, or Amazon Web Service account
Best use:
- To transfer files less than 1TB; cloud services can offer larger file transfers, but the upload/download time or cost of using higher storage may turn off some users.
- To easily share documents with multiple people.
- To ensure that your files are safely backed up and accessible everywhere.
How to transfer files:
- Log into your cloud storage account using your first computer.
- Drag and drop your file into your cloud storage folder.
- Go to your second computer and log into your cloud storage account.
- Download the files from your cloud storage folder onto your second computer.
Transfer files with a USB flash drive or external hard drive
A USB flash drive or external hard drive, with their larger-sized storage capacity and quick upload/download speed, are still among the most popular ways to transfer files from PC to PC.
What you need: A USB flash drive or external hard drive
Best use:
- To transfer files (e.g., videos, games, photo albums) larger than 1GB but less than 1TB.
- To transfer files quickly via USB 3.0 or higher
- To transfer files without internet access.
How to transfer files:
- Plug in the USB flash drive or external hard drive into the first computer.
- Once the storage drive is recognized, copy files into the storage drive folder.
- Safely remove the storage drive.
- Plug the storage drive into the second computer and transfer data.
Transfer files with a USB-to-USB cable
This method works with virtually every version of Windows and all file sizes.
What you need: Two computers and a USB-to-USB cable
Best use:
- To transfer files of any size
- To transfer files without internet access
- When your two computers are near each other.
How to transfer files:
- Plug the USB connector into both computers.
- Once both computers recognize each other, you can start transferring files between both computers.
Connect your hard drive or SSD to another computer
You can remove your hard drive or solid state drive and connect it to the computer you want to copy your files to. This method is only recommended if you are comfortable opening your computer and safely removing hardware, because damages caused to your computer may not be covered under your warranty.
What you need: An SSD or HDD drive and a SATA to USB converter if your motherboard is missing an extra SATA port
Best use:
- To transfer files larger than 1TB (e.g., transfer files to a new computer from an old one)
- To transfer files without internet access.
How to transfer files:
- Safely remove your SSD or HDD drive from your first computer.
- Connect the drive you removed to the computer you want to copy files to. You can install it directly on the mainboard if the computer has an available SATA port. If you do not have an available port, you can use a SATA to USB cable or an external drive enclosure to connect the drive.
- Wait for the operating system to install and connect to the drive.
- Once the drive is successfully installed, you can begin transferring data.
