Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

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

The easiest time to move data is while setting up your new Android phone. You can copy directly with a cable or over Wi-Fi, or restore a Google Account backup if the old phone is unavailable. Keep the old phone until you have checked the new one: not every file, app, or account is included in the transfer.

Choose the transfer method that fits your situation

Method What you need Best fit
Direct copy with a cable Both phones, the old phone unlocked, and a cable that fits both phones; an adapter may be needed. You have both phones and a compatible cable.
Direct copy over Wi-Fi Both phones and internet access during setup. You have both phones but no suitable cable or adapter.
Restore a Google Account backup An existing backup and access to the Google Account used to create it. The old phone is unavailable.

Google says cable and wireless direct copying support the same data. The available screens and options can vary by phone model and Android version. Start the copy during new-phone setup when possible; on some devices, the option may not be available later. Google’s Android setup guide explains the transfer choices.

Prepare both phones before you start

  • Charge both phones and keep the old phone nearby.
  • Make sure you know the old phone’s PIN, pattern, or password so you can unlock it.
  • Connect the new phone to Wi-Fi or another active internet connection. For wireless copying, both phones need internet access during setup.
  • Check that the new phone has enough storage for the information you want to move.
  • Set aside time. Google says copying may take from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the phones and the amount of data.
  • If you rely on WhatsApp chats, confirm that WhatsApp backup is enabled on the old phone.

Way 1: Copy data with a cable during setup

  1. Turn on the new phone and follow its setup prompts until it asks whether you want to copy apps and data. Choose the copy option.
  2. Unlock the old phone when prompted.
  3. Connect the phones using a compatible cable. Check the ports on both devices first; if the cable does not fit both, you may need an adapter.
  4. Follow the new phone’s prompts to select what to copy, then wait for the transfer to finish.
  5. Sign in to a Google Account during setup for a more complete transfer, as Google recommends.

The cable method avoids wireless pairing, but it still depends on having a cable and, if needed, an adapter that work with both phones.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Way 2: Copy data wirelessly during setup

  1. On the new phone, begin setup and choose the option to copy without a cable or to transfer wirelessly. Wording varies by device.
  2. On the old phone, follow the instructions shown on the new phone. Google describes opening the Google app and searching for set up my device.
  3. Confirm that the shapes and numbers displayed on both phones match, then follow the prompts to connect them.
  4. Select the data to copy on the new phone and leave both devices connected while the transfer runs.

Wireless transfer avoids needing a compatible cable, but both phones need internet access during setup. If the instructions or labels differ, follow the screens shown on your particular devices.

#1 Best Overall
ZeroneTeck USB C Data Cable 20Gbps 3FT, USB C 3.2 Gen 2X2 4K@60Hz Video UHD
  • 【Latest Version USB C 3.2 Gen 2 Cable】ZeroneTeck latest USB C for Thunderbolt cable: ①This 20Gbps USB C to USB C data cable is capable of meeting your ultra-fast data transfer needs. ②USB C to USB C monitor cable support 4K@60Hz Ultra HD video output ③In addition, this Type c to Type c cable also has a faster than normal 60W data cable with 100W ultra fast charging. Makes it easy for you to solve all your problems with just one cable.
  • 【20Gbps USB C Data Cable】USBC to USBC data transfer cable provides explosive transfer speed up to 20Gbps, connect hard drives and SSDs, Also suitable for phone to laptop data transfer, transfer large files in seconds and save you more work time. Meanwhile, USBC to USBC 3.2 gen 2 20gbps data transfer cable backward compatible with USB 3.1, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0.(*Note: Maximum speeds are achieved when both upstream and downstream devices are Thunderbolt 3/4 interfaces.)
  • 【4K@60Hz USB C Cable for Monitor & Plug and Play】Plug and play, no drivers or applications required to use this cable! USB C monitor cord to stream 4K@60Hz (3840*2160) content directly from your phones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers to large screens such as monitors, HDTVs and projectors. You will enjoy stunning Ultra HD video and colorful image quality. (Note: Please make sure your device has a USB-C port and supports DP Alt mode).
  • 【5A/100W Fast Charging Cable】USB Type C fast charging cable with E-Marker IC chip, safely charges your devices with up to 100W power. It can fully charge a MacBook Pro 60%, an iPad Pro 75%, a iPhone 15 85%, and a Switch 95% in 35 minutes. Fully satisfies the charging power needs of professionals for MacBooks Pro, Android devices, Samsung and iPad Pro. Charge any USB-C device at maximum speed for timely use and no more waiting. *Note: Requires a C-port adapter of appropriate power.
  • 【Dual Vehicle System】 Flawlessly supports CarPlay & Android Auto for seamless navigation/music streaming. 20Gbps ultra-speed — 40× faster than USB 2.0 CarPlay cables with enhanced signal stability.

Way 3: Restore a Google Account backup

Use this option if you cannot access the old phone and a backup was already enabled there. A backup cannot restore information that was never backed up.

  1. During setup on the new phone, connect to the internet and sign in to the Google Account associated with the backup.
  2. Choose the backup you want to restore and select the available data types.
  3. If prompted, enter the old phone’s PIN, pattern, or password.
  4. Allow the restore to run, then check your apps and important information on the new phone.

To review backup settings on a phone, open Settings > Google > Backup and restore > Backup. Google says a device can back up automatically over Wi-Fi when cloud backup is enabled. See Google’s Android backup and restore instructions for details.

Rank #2
LDLrui USB C to USB A 3.1 Gen 2 Data Cable, 3ft, 1-Pack, Black
  • [ Excellent Performance ] This USB C 3.1 cable connects a portable external USB C 3.1 SSD to a computer for speedy file transfer or syncs and charges Samsung smartphones or tablets equipped with the USB C port. Data synchronization is 20 times faster than USB 2.0 cables (480Mbps). (Does not support video output.)
  • [ Fast Charging & High Speed Data Transfer ] This usba to usbc data power cable can sync your favourite photos, videos and music at a data transfer rate of up to 10Gbps(1250MB/s). Files can be synchronised in seconds. In addition, it can quick-charge your USB-C devices at up to 3A safe charging power. Tested charge Samsung Galaxy S22 from 0 to 60% in 30mins with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 technology.Tips: USB 3.1 Gen 2 renamed to USB 3.2 Gen 2 by USB-IF in 2019.
  • [ Extreme Durability & High Quality ] : Unique ABS case with the reinforced connector withstand 10000+ bending test. Durable TPE cable not only stay tangling-free but also flexible enough to be wrapped up and put in a bag ! (PS:The connector shell is wrapped around by a piece of plastic film to protect the shell from scraching ,feel free to remove the film when you use it.)
  • [ Universal Compatibility ] This USB C to USB A Charger cable is Compatible with almost all USB-C devices. For Samsung Galaxy S24/S24+/S24 Ultra/S23/S23+/S23 Ultra/S22/S21/S20/S10/S9/Note 20/10/A70/A80/A90/A54, iPhone 16/16 Plus/16 Pro/16 Pro Max, iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, Google Pixel 9/8/7/6/5/, Moto G9/G8/G7/G Pure, LG G7/G6/V50, Sony XZ, Bose 700, GoPro, Nintendo switch, Samsung Galaxy Tab S6, iPad Pro 2018 11''/12.9", Samsung T7/T5, Crucial X8/X6, LaCie Rugged SSD, G-Drive, WD My Passport, Seagate Fast, SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD etc. (OnePlus phones are not supported.)
  • [ What You Get ] 1 X Super-Fast USB-A to USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 Cable (3 ft including both ends), our worry-free LIFETIME WARRANTY and friendly customer service. NOTE: If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us, we will be happy to serve you and give you an easy and pleasant shopping experience.

What transfers—and what you may need to move separately

During Android setup, Google says the copy can include apps and certain app data, music, photos and videos, contacts stored on the phone or SIM, text messages and their multimedia, most phone settings, wallpaper, and call history. What appears can depend on the phone and Android version.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Some information may not transfer through setup copying. Google lists these examples:

Rank #3
Sale
Anker 240W USB C to USB C Cable for Thunderbolt 4/3, USB4 40Gbps, 3.3ft
  • Move Files Fast: Transfer music, movies, or entire seasons of TV shows in seconds at 40 Gbps.
  • HD Display: Connect your laptop to an external monitor to mirror or extend your screen in up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@144Hz.
  • Huge Range of Power: Supports a maximum 240W charge when paired up with a compatible charger. Charge virtually any USB-C device from phones and accessories to laptops.
  • Built to Last: Proven in lab tests to withstand up to 5,000 bends.
  • What You Get: Anker 515 USB-C to USB-C Cable (USB4, 3.3ft), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
  • Downloads such as PDFs and media stored in hidden folders.
  • Apps installed outside Google Play.
  • Data from apps that do not use Android backup.
  • Non-Google accounts and their data, plus contacts or calendars synced with other services.
  • Ringtones and some settings.

WhatsApp chats and data are restored from the cloud after you sign in on the new Android phone and open WhatsApp, provided WhatsApp backup was enabled on the old device. For other apps and accounts, check their own backup or sign-in requirements; the Android setup copy does not cover every service.

If you already finished setting up the new phone

Some phones offer a Finish setting up option for a few days after initial setup. Availability depends on the device, and Google notes that the original copy option may not remain available on every phone.

Rank #4
Sale
Silkland 40Gbps USB 4 for Thunderbolt 4 Cable 4FT, 240W PD3.1, 8K/Dual 4K
  • 【Up to 40Gbps Data Sync】Delivers up to 40Gbps high speed transaltion, 4x faster than USB 3.2 cable, 2x faster than previous generation USB4 cable. It can copy 10GB files in seconds, avoid waiting, and effortlessly get everything you want. Plug and play, no drive needed.*The final performance depends on whether your device supports USB4, Thunderbolt 4/3.
  • 【240W Rapid Charging】Up to 240W (48/5A) power supply when paired with a compatible charger. Backward compatible with 100W, 140W, 180W in Extended Power Range(EPR). It is ready to provide you with enough power at any time. Equipped E-Marker chip for safety, stability, and battery protection. Support PD 3.1, QC 4.0, FCP, AFC fast charging technology for future proof.
  • 【8K HDR Design for Professionals】 Provide a single 8K@60Hz / 5K@60Hz / 4K@144Hz or dual 4K@60Hz display support. Connect your laptop or dock to a monitor and get a crisp detail and 10-bit color depth view. Support MST Daisy Chain, release your efficiency and improve the professionalism of the project.
  • 【Future-proofed Compatibility】The USB 4 cable fully supports the function of Thunderbolt 4. Backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3, USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 3.2 Gen 2 x 2, USB 2.0. It works seamlessly with all Thunderbolt 4 / 3 / Type-C devices. Compatible with Apple Studio Display, Mac Studio, Mac Mini, MacBook, Surface, iPad Pro, iPhone 17/16, docking station, SSD, power bank, GaN charger, etc. We recommend using cables below 5FT when connecting to the docking for stable performance.
  • 【Top-Notch Material】Aluminum shell ensures efficient heat dissipation and protects the chip. Experience unprecedented durability with our unique 48-strand braided techniques. It offers 3x protection without tangle and gets worry-free usage. Triple protection with EMI-resistant tinplate, 28 AWG OFC conductors, and stainless steel connectors improves signal quality and ensures long-lasting connections.

Google’s troubleshooting guidance says a transfer-from-another-device option in Settings is available on Android 17 and later and on select earlier devices. The exact route depends on the phone maker and model; check the manufacturer’s support information if you cannot find it. Google’s troubleshooting page covers transfer problems and post-setup options.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Before you erase, trade in, or recycle the old phone

Do not reset the old phone just because setup reports that copying is complete. Check the new phone while you can still access the original:

Best Value
Cable Matters 20Gbps USB C to USB C Monitor Cable, 6ft / 1.8m
  • 20Gbps Data Transfer: This USB C data cable (USB C 3.2 Gen 2x2 cable) supports blazing-fast 20Gbps data transfer for fast file transfers, high-speed storage access, and external drive connections. This USB C 3.2 Gen 2 cable / USB-C data cable ensures reliable performance and is backward compatible with earlier USB-C versions.
  • 8K or 4K UHD Video Output: This USB C video cable / USBC display cable supports 8K@30Hz or 4K@120Hz video output to a USB-C monitor. Use this USB-C monitor cable to connect your computer to a USBC monitor like the MB169C Type-C portable monitor, ZenScreen MB16AC, AOC i1601fwux, or LG 4K USB C monitor for gaming, content creation, or extended desktop viewing.
  • 240W Power Delivery: This 240W USB C display cable charges laptops, tablets, and phones with up to 240W. The USB C to USB C video cable for monitor (USB C to USB C data cable) supports devices like iPad Pro, Google Pixel 2/3XL, OnePlus 2/3, HTC 10, Huawei P9, LG G5, Nexus 6P, and Galaxy S9/S9+, S8/S8+, Note 9/Note 8 when used with a USB Type C charger, USB C power adapter, or USB C car charger.
  • Broad Monitor & Dock Compatibility: This USB C to USB C monitor cable works with USB-C monitors and docks such as Dell U2520D, P2720DC, U2721DE, U2719DC, and HP E273d, E24d G4, E223d, E27d G4—delivering smooth video output and charging.
  • Thunderbolt 4 & USB-C Device Support: This Thunderbolt 4 & USB C cable is compatible with USB-C computers such as MacBook Pro, Dell XPS 13/15, Dell Alienware 13/15/17, Dell Precision 15/17, Aspire R13/V15, S5-391-6419 Nitro, V17 Nitro, Predator 15/17, ROG G752VL, GT752VT, GT752VY, GX700VO, ZenBook Pro UX501VW, Clevo P750DM/P770DM/P870DM, ThinkPad P50/P70, MSI GS40, GS60, GT72, GT80, Vortex, WS60, WS72, and VAIO S11.
  • Open important apps and confirm you can sign in and see the data you need.
  • Check photos, videos, downloads, and files, including anything stored outside the usual folders.
  • Verify contacts, calendars, messages, and call history that matter to you.
  • Open WhatsApp and confirm the chats you expected have been restored.

If something is missing, keep the old phone intact and use the relevant app, account, or phone-maker instructions to transfer or recover it before wiping the device.

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.