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Use Apple’s Migration Assistant to move supported files, accounts, and settings from a Windows laptop to a MacBook. You can run it during the Mac’s first-time setup or later, and it leaves the original data on the PC. The key preparation step is downloading the Windows Migration Assistant version that matches the macOS version on the Mac.
Before you start
- Update Windows and macOS, and close open apps on both computers.
- Keep the laptop and MacBook nearby, with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled. For a Mac running macOS 13 or earlier—or if you are unsure which macOS version it runs—Apple’s instructions say to put both computers on the same network or connect them directly with Ethernet.
- If antivirus, firewall, or VPN software is installed on either computer, temporarily turn it off for the migration. Turn it back on afterward.
- Keep the Windows laptop until you have checked the transferred files and settings on the Mac.
Migration Assistant does not delete information from the PC or replace macOS on the Mac. Apple also cautions that large transfers may take hours and can appear to pause. See Apple’s Migration Assistant instructions for current setup and troubleshooting details.
Choose the right Windows Migration Assistant version
On the Windows laptop, download the utility version that matches the macOS installed on the destination MacBook—not the age or version of Windows alone. Apple’s support page lists these compatibility options:
| Destination macOS | Windows Migration Assistant version | Windows requirement listed by Apple |
|---|---|---|
| macOS 27, Tahoe 26, Sequoia 15, or Sonoma 14 | 3.2.0.0 | Windows 10 or later |
| Ventura 13 or Monterey 12 | 2.4.5.0 | Windows 7 or later |
| Big Sur 11 | 2.3.1.0 | Windows 7 or later |
Apple lists additional utilities for earlier macOS releases. These release numbers and compatibility details can change, so check the live Apple compatibility list before downloading. If you are moving from a much older Windows version or macOS, use the matching instructions on that page rather than assuming the versions above apply.
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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.
Run Migration Assistant
- Start on the MacBook. During initial setup, choose the option to transfer information from a Windows PC. If setup is already complete, open Migration Assistant on the Mac and choose the Windows PC option. Apple also documents both timing options in its MacBook Air migration guide.
- Open Windows Migration Assistant on the PC. Install and launch the version you downloaded for the Mac’s macOS. Follow its prompts; you may need to allow the app to make changes on the PC.
- Pair the computers. When a code appears on the Mac, enter it in Windows Migration Assistant and confirm that the code matches on both computers.
- Select what to transfer. Review the available accounts and categories, select the items you want, then start the transfer. The list depends on the files and software versions present on the PC.
- Wait for the transfer to finish. Keep both computers available and powered during the process. An apparent pause does not necessarily mean it has failed; Apple says large transfers can take hours and may pause occasionally.
- Check the result on the Mac. Sign in to the migrated user account using the password created during migration. Review the migration summary and check the expected folders and apps before deleting or repurposing anything on the PC.
If you need to move more than one Windows user account, sign in to each Windows account and run Migration Assistant again. Apple’s Mac Help guide describes transferring the current user’s selectable categories and repeating the process for multiple users.
What moves, and where to look on the Mac
Migration Assistant offers selectable categories; it does not make every Windows program or setting work as a Mac app. Apple lists these common transfers, with availability dependent on the source data and software versions:
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.
| Windows data or setting | Where to look on the Mac | Important detail |
|---|---|---|
| Email and email settings from Outlook and Windows Mail | POP/IMAP email settings may be among the selectable items. | |
| Contacts | Contacts | Check the Contacts app after migration. |
| Appointments | Calendar | Outlook tasks transfer to Reminders when migrating to macOS 13 or later. |
| Music, podcasts, audiobooks, films, and TV programmes | Corresponding Mac apps | Check the relevant app for the transferred media. |
| Browser home pages and bookmarks from browsers listed by Apple | Safari | Not every browser or browser item is guaranteed; see Apple’s current transfer list. |
| Documents and other files in the Windows home directory, including available user folders such as Desktop, Downloads, Pictures, Movies, Music, and Documents | The migrated user’s home folder | Review the selected categories and their destination folders. |
| Photos | Files in the home folder | Photos may need to be added to the Photos app or imported from within Photos. |
| Custom desktop pictures, language and location settings, and known Wi-Fi networks | Mac settings | Apple lists known Wi-Fi networks for macOS 13 or later. |
| Non-system documents on the Windows system disk or other available disks | Shared folder in the Mac home folder | Run Migration Assistant on the PC as an administrator for this category. |
These are transfers of supported data, not a way to install Windows applications on macOS. For exact selectable categories, consult Apple’s transfer list and Mac Help.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If Migration Assistant does not connect or finish
- Check the utility version: Confirm it matches the Mac’s macOS using Apple’s compatibility list.
- Check the connection: Follow Apple’s network or Ethernet guidance, particularly for macOS 13 or earlier. Ensure both computers are nearby and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled.
- Check security software: Temporarily disable antivirus, firewall, or VPN software that could interfere, then restore it when migration is complete.
- Check the Windows disk: Apple’s troubleshooting guidance describes using Windows
chkdskto check disk issues that could prevent migration. Follow Apple’s instructions for running it and addressing any reported errors. - Use a manual fallback if needed: If the problem cannot be resolved, Apple recommends copying important files using an external storage device or file sharing. This is a fallback for selected files, not a requirement for Migration Assistant.
For the current troubleshooting steps and available alternatives, use Apple’s PC-to-Mac transfer support page.
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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
Sale
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.
Rank #3
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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.
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