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For a broad move to a new MacBook, use Apple’s Migration Assistant; to copy only a few folders, use an external drive or file sharing. Migration Assistant copies the items you select without deleting them from the Windows laptop. The right Windows Migration Assistant version depends on the macOS version installed on the Mac, so check Apple’s current compatibility table before downloading.
Choose the transfer method that fits
| Method | Best for | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Migration Assistant | Moving a broader set of user data to a new or already configured MacBook | Copies selected data, including some account information and files, into the appropriate Mac apps and folders. The PC’s information remains in place. |
| External storage | Copying selected folders or recovering important files if migration has problems | Copy files from the Windows laptop to an external storage device, then copy them to the MacBook. Choose a device that can connect to both computers. |
| File sharing | Copying selected files when both computers can use a network connection | Apple identifies file sharing as an option, but setup depends on the network and Windows configuration. |
Migration Assistant is the natural starting point if you want more than a handful of documents. It is not a complete Windows system clone: you choose what to transfer, and some items need follow-up on the Mac.
Before you start Migration Assistant
- Update Windows and macOS, and quit open apps on both computers.
- Temporarily turn off antivirus, firewall, or VPN software if it is installed and Apple’s migration guidance calls for it. Turn protection back on after the transfer.
- Keep the computers near each other and enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. For Macs running macOS 13 or earlier, or if you are unsure which connection setup applies, connect both computers to the same network or connect them directly with Ethernet.
- Download the Windows Migration Assistant release that Apple specifies for the macOS version on the MacBook. Apple’s support page lists version 3.2.0.0 for Windows 10 or later transferring to macOS 14–27, version 2.4.5.0 for Windows 7 or later to macOS 12–13, and version 2.3.1.0 for Windows 7 or later to macOS 11. These pairings can change; use Apple’s current compatibility table rather than relying on an old installer or this list alone.
Transfer data with Migration Assistant
- Start on the MacBook. During initial setup, select “From a Windows PC.” If setup is already complete, open Migration Assistant on the Mac and choose the Windows PC option.
- Open Windows Migration Assistant. Run the version that matches the Mac’s macOS release. Follow the prompts until the Windows laptop asks for a code.
- Match the computers. Confirm that the code shown on the MacBook matches the one shown on Windows, then continue.
- Choose what to copy. Wait while the Mac scans the Windows laptop and calculates the information to transfer. Select the categories or individual items you want.
- Let the transfer finish. Large transfers may take hours and can appear to pause occasionally. Avoid interrupting the computers while the process is running.
- Review the MacBook. Check the migrated account and file locations. If you need data belonging to another Windows user, sign in to that account on the PC and run Migration Assistant again.
Apple says Migration Assistant does not delete information from the PC or replace macOS on the Mac. See Transfer from PC to Mac with Migration Assistant for Apple’s complete instructions.
Find transferred files and account data
Migration Assistant places items according to their type rather than copying the Windows environment wholesale. Apple lists these typical destinations:
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#1 Best Overall
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LAPGEAR Home Office Pro Lap Desk - Black Carbon, Fits 15.6” Laptops
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
- Email and some settings: Supported data from Outlook and Windows Mail goes to Mail.
- Contacts and calendars: Contacts go to Contacts, and appointments go to Calendar.
- Tasks: Outlook tasks go to Reminders when migrating to macOS 13 or later.
- Media: Music, podcasts, audiobooks, movies, and TV shows go to their corresponding Apple apps.
- Browser data: Browser homepages and bookmarks go to Safari.
- Documents and other files: These generally go to the Mac user’s home folder. Certain non-system files from the Windows system disk and other available disks go into a shared folder in that home folder if Migration Assistant is run while signed in to Windows as an administrator.
- Photos: Photos are placed in the home folder. Import them into Photos manually, or let Photos search for and import them.
For details on what moves and where it goes, consult Apple’s Migration Assistant guide and Apple’s Mac user guide.
First sign-in to the migrated Mac account
A migrated standard account receives a temporary password shown onscreen; use it for the first sign-in, then set a new password. If you migrate an administrator account, Migration Assistant asks you to set a secure password during the process.
Rank #2
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Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Copy selected files without migrating an account
If you only need a few folders, Apple recommends copying important files with an external storage device or file sharing. With external storage, copy the chosen files from the Windows laptop to the drive, connect it to the MacBook, and copy them to the destination folder you want. Check that the drive can connect to both computers before beginning; the required ports and compatibility depend on your hardware and drive.
File sharing can avoid a separate storage device, but its setup depends on the computers’ network and configuration. Apple confirms wired or wireless network transfer as an option, but the steps vary; follow instructions that match your Windows version and network rather than assuming one universal setup. Apple describes these alternatives in its Mac user guide.
DriversOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownPerformancePC Slower Than It Used to Be?DriversCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
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Yilador Webcam Cover 3 Pack, 0.03 inch Ultra Thin Laptop Camera Cover Slide
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Troubleshoot a Migration Assistant transfer
- The computers do not connect: Confirm both systems are updated, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled, and the devices are on the same network or connected by Ethernet where required. Check that the Windows Migration Assistant release matches the Mac’s macOS version.
- The transfer fails or reports disk errors: Apple recommends checking the Windows disk with the Windows
chkdskutility. If it reports errors, Apple documents runningchkdsk drive: /F, replacingdrive:with the affected drive letter. Follow Windows prompts, then try migration again. - The process seems slow or paused: Apple notes that large transfers may take hours and can appear to pause occasionally. Give the transfer time to complete.
- You still cannot migrate: Copy the essential files using external storage or file sharing instead.
See Apple’s troubleshooting guidance for the full procedure. Any security software disabled for troubleshooting should be turned back on afterward.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Sale
LAPGEAR Home Office Lap Desk – Pink, Fits 15.6” Laptops
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Rank #4
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AboveTEK Portable Laptop Lap Desk w/Retractable Left/Right Mouse Pad Tray, Non-Slip Heat Shield Tablet Notebook Computer Stand Table w/Sturdy Stable Work Surface for Bed Sofa Couch or Travel
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
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