Forum Discussion

LarkinFox's avatar
LarkinFox
Iron Contributor
Jan 19, 2026

How can I transfer files form mac to mac without migration assistant?

Trying to move files from one Mac to another but don't want to use Migration Assistant this time. Just need to copy folders, photos, videos, and some work files, not the whole system. Both Macs work ...
Komondor2240's avatar
Komondor2240
Iron Contributor
Jan 19, 2026

Thanks to Apple's integrated ecosystem, the optimal solution to transfer files from Mac to Mac is determined by the proximity of the two Macs and the volume of data to be transferred.

1.Old Mac Setup

  • Open System Preferences → General → Sharing, enable File Sharing, click the i information button on the right, then click the + under Shared Folders to add the folder requiring transfer. Ensure your account permissions are set to Read & Write, and record the displayed sharing address.

2. Connecting and Transferring on the New Mac

  • Open Finder, click Go in the top menu bar → Connect to Server. Enter the old Mac's shared address, click Connect, and complete authentication if prompted. Select the shared volume; the shared folder will mount to your desktop. Simply drag and drop files to transfer at maximum network speed.

Advantages:Suited for large-volume batch file transfers, utilises full network bandwidth, requires no additional hardware, enables precise folder selection for on-demand transfers, and offers high stability.

Disadvantages:Requires shared local area network environment, involves cumbersome steps, may fail due to improper permission configuration, and is unusable without network connectivity.