what type of cable should I use to migrate from an old mac to a new mac

We need the exact model of the Macs, especially the older one, but if you have a Time Machine Drive just move that to the new one,

You need 2 cables...

https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MMEL2AM/A/thunderbolt-3-usb-c-to-thunderbolt-2-adapter

https://www.amazon.com/Apple-Thunderbolt-cable-0-5-m/dp/B00WVDGZM6

I recommend that you only use a USB cable, assuming that both Macs have USB ports. Other means such as Wi-Fi are often unreliable. Enjoy the new Mac.