Clean Install vs Time Machine

If the new computer is going to be the Apple Silicon M1 Equipped Computer - would suggest Only Migrating the User Account and nothing more.

1 - Apple Silicon with either Big Sur macOS 11 or Monterey macOS 12 Only Support everything 64 bit and there is no workaround.

2 - Issues that may exist on the older computer will be migrated to the New Computer. This would badly pollute the new Original and Pristine installation of the new OS.

3 -  Applications, extensions and Software Drivers may or may not even work on the new computer.

4 - IMHO - it would be best to only install new application etc Directly from the Developer or the Apple Apps Store.

5 - Due Diligence on New Applications and make sure they are Monterey / Big Sur compatible and factor in the ARMs CPU of the Apple Silicon Computer  

FLTherapist wrote:

I have a 2020 MBP 13 with Intel i7. My new MBP 14 with M1 Max will be delivered next week. My first MBP was a 2011 13 inch. I have always used Time Machine encrypted backup to transfer everything. This will be the third or fourth time doing that. Should I start with a "clean" MBP 14 and transfer everything manually? I like having all my Bookmarks, Apps , and passwords, but even with this 2020 MBP it seems like some things are glitchy. I'm not vey tech savvy, but I can follow instructions. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

I have always used the Setup Assistant with no issue— this goes back 5 macs and many macOS...

The most trouble free way to move to a new machine, is using the Setup Assistant on the initial boot of a brand new machine— you have one shot here. https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT205749

The second best way is use the Migration Assistant.

How to move your content to a new Mac https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204350

I've been successful creating a bootable installer and using the Migration Assistant from a recent Time Machine backup (made with Big Sur 11.6.1). In my case, I was also able to move my applications and system settings from Big Sur. On the other hand, I only use a small number of non-Apple applications (MS Office, Adobe Lightroom, Canon DPP and a few programs purchased from the App Store). My peripherals are either from Apple or are compatible with the Apple standards (for SSDs, scanner, Blu-Ray reader/burner, USB audio devices, ...).

Prior to moving to Monterey, I tried to remove any 32-bit apps (identified using About this Mac>System Information>System Report...>Software>Legacy Software).

- Pie Lover

P.S. I originally installed Monterey 12.0.1 as above and updated first to 12.1 and then to 12.2

The thrust of " # 2 - Issues that may exist on the older computer will be migrated to the New Computer. This would badly pollute the new Original and Pristine installation of the new OS.

That can range from Third Party Applications, Software Drivers, Extensions and / or most anything else.

A conservative approach may be fruitful and avoid a major cleanup afterwards IMHO.

I used TM going from Mojave to Monterey and no issues. Any 32bit app remaining was indicated with a line through it which I just deleted after the fact. All runs well.

I would suggest biting the bullet and doing a manual transfer. I realize it's a chore, but worth it IMO knowing you're starting fresh with the M1 Max.

You should try to fix the issues first or you will not know what to transfer that does not have an issue.

I agree that a conservative approach is best especially for users unable to revert to a previous installation. In my case, the option that I choose was, I believe, a compromise between convenience and prudence.

- Pie Lover

I agree your process is the safest but I try to be very diligent to not have any present issues that would carryover and do my homework before upgrading the OS for any possible compatibility issues. Of course many do not and that can be an issue I will admit.

Hi jimfromgowanda,

could you give me some suggestions or tips on doing a manual transfer? Which files should be transferred and which should not be transferred? I have many files from previous computers that interfere with smooth operation. Thanks.

I have multiple issues on my old computer that I want to avoid transferring. But I want all my documents, mail, pictures, music and contacts transferred. How do I determine which files to transfer and which files should not be transferred? Thanks.

+1