Forum Discussion
How can I transfer files form mac to mac without migration assistant?
For me, Migration Assistant is the proper solution to transfer files from Mac to Mac as it refuses to move files cleanly from one Mac to another. Common problems include the transfer getting stuck, extremely slow progress, or errors caused by unstable Wi-Fi, incompatible macOS versions, or insufficient free space on the new Mac. Firewall settings or background apps can also interrupt the process without giving a clear error message.
Another frequent issue is missing data after the migration finishes. Some users find that certain user folders, apps, or permissions do not copy correctly, especially when moving from an older macOS to a much newer one. This can lead to duplicated user accounts, login problems, or apps that open but do not work as expected.
A practical workaround is to avoid wireless transfer and use a wired connection, such as a Thunderbolt or Ethernet cable, which is far more stable. It also helps to update both Macs to compatible macOS versions and disable security software temporarily during the transfer. If Migration Assistant still fails, manually copying important folders or restoring from a Time Machine backup is often more reliable.
I would love to use a dedicated app for transferring files from Mac to Mac without migration assistant as it is more reliable and fast!