Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
On a Mac, open Photos > Settings > iCloud and select Download Originals to this Mac. This downloads the full-size versions of your iCloud Photos library to the Mac. If you want a backup that is separate from the synced Photos library, export copies to another folder or drive after the download finishes.
Download your entire iCloud Photos library on a Mac
Apple documents the Mac Photos app as the whole-library option. Sign in to the Apple Account used for iCloud Photos, then follow these steps:
- Open the Photos app.
- Choose Photos > Settings > iCloud.
- Make sure iCloud Photos is enabled.
- Select Download Originals to this Mac.
Apple describes this setting as storing the full-size versions of your photos on both your Mac and in iCloud. See the Photos User Guide. The alternative, Optimize Mac Storage, keeps smaller versions on the Mac while the full-size originals remain in iCloud, so it is not the right choice when you need all originals downloaded locally.
Allow time for the library to download. Apple does not give a fixed completion time; it depends on the library and connection. Keep the Mac connected and check that the originals are available before relying on the download.
#1 Best Overall
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Export a separate archive from Photos
Downloading originals to the Mac does not by itself create an independent folder of files. To make a separate copy, select the items in Photos and choose File > Export, then choose a destination folder or a different drive. Apple’s instructions for archiving or making copies of iCloud Photos describe exporting copies to another location.
Download selected batches from iCloud.com
Use iCloud.com when you need selected items through a browser rather than a full local Photos library. Apple allows up to 1,000 selected items per batch, so larger libraries require repeated batches. The instructions do not describe a one-click browser export of an unlimited library.
Rank #2
- High capacity in a small enclosure – The small, lightweight design offers up to 6TB* capacity, making WD Elements portable hard drives the ideal companion for consumers on the go.
- Plug-and-play expandability
- Vast capacities up to 6TB[1] to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more
- SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps)
- Go to iCloud.com/photos and sign in.
- Select up to 1,000 photos and videos.
- Choose Download. If you want to choose a format, open More Download Options.
- Choose the desired output and download the batch. Repeat for additional items.
Apple’s iCloud download instructions offer these choices:
- Unmodified originals: the original files as captured or imported, when retaining the source file is the priority.
- Higher resolution: generally HEIC or H.265 versions.
- More compatible: JPEG or MP4/H.264 versions, which may be easier to use with software that does not support Apple’s newer formats.
Choose based on what you need the files for: originals preserve the source files, while more compatible output favors easier playback and sharing across software.
Rank #3
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
Download iCloud Photos on a Windows PC
The steps depend on the installed iCloud for Windows version. Apple’s Windows download instructions state that Windows 10 or later is required.
iCloud for Windows 11.1 or later
Optimized versions download automatically. Opening a photo or video downloads its full version. If you need a local copy of the full library, check that the full versions—not only optimized versions—are downloaded. Apple also documents selecting multiple items in File Explorer or downloading selected batches from iCloud.com; see iCloud Photos on your PC.
Rank #4
- 【Upgraded version】 - The mirror logo strip is combined with the striped non-slip design. The rounded corners of the shell are more suitable for holding. The strips play a heat dissipation function to ensure a stable and fast transmission process.
- 【Ultra-thin and quiet】 - The motherboard adopts JMicron 578 noise-free solution, giving you a quiet working environment. Lightweight and portable size designed to fit in your pocket for easy portability.
- 【Ultra-Fast Data Transfers】 - Pairing this external hard drive with JMicron 578 solution USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 interfaces enables blazing-fast data transfer. It boasts theoretical read speeds of up to 125MB/s and write speeds of up to 103MB/s."
- 【Plug and Play】 - With no software to install, just plug it in and the drive is ready to use.The hard disk chip is wrapped with an aluminum anti-interference layer to increase heat dissipation and protect data.
- 【What You Get】 - 1 x Portable Hard Drive, 1 x USB 3.0 Cable, 1 x User Manual, Gift-type shell packaging ,Three-year manufacturer's warranty and free technical support services.
iCloud for Windows 10 or earlier
Apple’s instructions describe downloading photos and videos by year from the iCloud icon in the Windows notification area. This workflow is organized by year rather than as a single whole-library download. Consult Apple’s version-specific steps for the controls that match your installation.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteCopy photos to external storage from an iPhone or iPad
Apple documents exporting selected items to Files, including an external storage device; the cited steps do not provide a one-action export of the entire library from the iPhone Photos app.
Best Value
- All-in-One Design: 1TB external hard drive, multi-port hub and SD/TF card reader combine to provide ample storage and comprehensive connectivity in a single device for seamless multi-device connectivity to enhance your productivity.
- Multiple Interface Support: The product has a built-in 1TB hard disk and supports USB-C, USB 3.2, USB 2.0, SD card slot and TF card slot, which meets the needs of daily work. The product connects to the computer via data cable to realize multi-device interoperability.
- Dual Socket Data Connection Cable: Equipped with USB 3.2 and USB-C dual socket data connection cable, suitable for more models.
- Wide compatibility: Supports Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, iOS （iPhone 15 and Later） and other operating systems. Support Desktops, Laptops, SmartPhones, Tablets, TVs and other devices.
- Note: This is only compatible with Apple devices that have a USB‑C port (including iPhone 15 and later, as well as all iPads with USB‑C). Using a Lightning to USB‑C adapter will not resolve the compatibility issue.
- In Photos, select the items you want to copy.
- Tap Share, then choose Export Unmodified Original.
- Choose a destination in Files, such as an attached external storage device.
See Apple’s instructions for archiving and copying iCloud Photos.
Choose the right download route
| Route | Best for | Key constraint |
|---|---|---|
| Photos on Mac: Download Originals | Downloading the full library locally at full size | Requires enough local disk space and time for the download |
| iCloud.com | Selected downloads from a browser | Up to 1,000 selected items per batch; repeat for larger downloads |
| iCloud for Windows | Accessing and downloading photos on a Windows PC | Behavior differs between version 11.1 or later and version 10 or earlier |
| Export to a separate drive | Keeping an archive separate from the synced library | Requires separate storage with enough space; a separate drive is optional for downloading to a Mac |
Keep the archive separate from iCloud sync
iCloud Photos syncs changes across devices. A download or export is meant to make a copy; deleting or changing items in the synced library is a separate action and can affect what appears on other devices. If you need an archive independent of iCloud Photos, export copies to a separate location and verify that the files are present before relying on them. Apple explains the sync and copy options in its archive and copies guide.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
