bought a MacBook? This way you take all your PC data with you!

Are you switching from a Windows PC to a MacBook? Whatever reason you have for this, it is nice if you can transfer your old data to your new MacBook. It may sound like a difficult job, but it’s not that bad in practice.

MacOS and Windows are two completely different operating systems, yet many programs run on both types. Files and documents created on one platform often also work on the other, or can at least be viewed. Transferring files from a Windows PC or laptop to a MacBook is therefore certainly possible.

From PC to MacBook

It is of course possible that you want to start completely clean on your new MacBook, but you might still want to transfer some personal or work-related data. You can use cloud services for this, such as iCloud, Google Drive or OneDrive. These cloud services are available on both operating systems.

In addition, it is possible to transfer the data via a USB stick or external hard drive. Another way, of course, is to use a data transfer service like WeTransfer. You can only send 2GB at a time with the free version. If you want to transfer a lot of data, this is not the most efficient choice.

Migration Assistant from Apple

Apple has another option up its sleeve, which is the Migration Assistant. This allows the entire process to be automated, transferring only important data from a Windows PC to a MacBook. Contacts, calendars and e-mail accounts can also be transferred. In addition, photos and videos and other files can be transferred to your Mac.

Download the Migration Assistant on your Windows PC and select the version of macOS that is on your MacBook. Open the application and press Continue. You will then be asked for permission to send or not send app usage data to Apple. Make a choice and then wait for the Migration Assistant find your MacBook.

Even more steps

You can now also open the Migration Assistant and open the folder Utilities. You can find this in the folder Applications. Follow the instructions that appear on screen and choose How do you want to copy your data? in front of From a Windows PC. Then select your PC from the list and press Continue.

Next, you need to check on both your PC and MacBook if the passcodes are the same. If so, click Continue on your PC. Your MacBook will then scan the files on your PC. Here you can select which data you want to transfer. When you’ve selected everything you want, press Next one. It may take a while for everything to transfer, but then you’ll be ready to enjoy your new MacBook!