Apple Intelligence is now available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac!

📢 Newsroom Update

Apple unveils the new iMac with M4, supercharged by Apple Intelligence and available in fresh colors. Learn more >

📢 Newsroom Update

Apple introduces M4 Pro and M4 Max. Learn more >

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

2010 27" iMac - High Sierra 10.13.6 - How to migrate data to new 24" 1Mac

Best way to move data on old 27"

iMac running High Sierra 10.13.6 to new 24" iMac Big Sur 11.0

Posted on May 7, 2021 1:38 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on May 7, 2021 1:57 PM

Connect your TimeMachine backup drive to your new Mac and use Migration Assistent to move content:

Here’s how to move contect to a new Mac https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204350


6 replies

May 7, 2021 1:58 PM in response to tstan@

Here is what I suggest. Use Apple's Migration Assistant app. It was designed for this purpose and easy to use. The basic steps are the following.

  • Start both computers up and begin the setup process on the new Mac.
  • At some point you will be asked if you want to transfer data from your old computer. Say yes.
  • Connect both computers with a USB cable. Do not use Wi-Fi for the transfer. It is too slow and your data is likely to be corrupted due to the volume of data to be transferred.
  • Open the Migration Assistant app in both computers and follow instructions.
  • You will be presented with some options as to what to transfer. Click the appropriate boxes.
  • I suggest that you copy your preferences and settings.
  • You can either have Migration Assistant copy your files or copy them over manually. You can not selectively transfer files.
  • You can either have Migration Assistant copy your apps or you can elect to download and reinstall them. In either case, some of them may require that they be reregistered to work in the new computer. In some cases, apps may need to be upgraded to work. There may be a cost to upgrade some of them.
  • Your old operating system will not be transferred.
  • All files in the old computer will remain intact.
  • The transfer may take up to an hour, more or less, depending on the volume of data to be transferred.
  • Enjoy your new Mac.

May 7, 2021 4:43 PM in response to mulberry58

Dear Mulberry58...


Most grateful for your reply.

Neither the new or old computer should be connected to the internet...is that correct?

Other than deauthorizing iTunes accounts on the old computer, any other old computer actions?

Is it a good idea to have old System preferences copied? The new computer will not pick up old preferences...right?

Having Back Up external hard drive synchronized with Time Machine app... this appears to be the best way.

Thank you for your kindness.



2010 27" iMac - High Sierra 10.13.6 - How to migrate data to new 24" 1Mac

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.