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Better to use migration assistant or time machine backup?

For moving data from an iMac to a new MacBook Pro, is it better to use migration assistant or time machine backup?

iMac 21.5″, macOS 12.4

Posted on Jul 6, 2022 8:51 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 6, 2022 9:04 AM

girolamo1583 wrote:

For moving data from an iMac to a new MacBook Pro, is it better to use migration assistant or time machine backup?



A cable connection is preferred.


A Time Machine is a viable copy of your User and all data— if it allows you to use the cable connection, for lack of port compatibility old to new. This is the same as connection mac to mac to move your content.


When I bought a new machine from Apple on-line they recommended USB-C to USB Adapter - Apple

It is the most basic for connection a USB to your new thunderbolt port.



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. Set up your MacBook Pro - Apple Support


The second best way is use the Migration Assistant.

How to move your content to a new Mac Move your content to a new Mac - Apple Support


1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 6, 2022 9:04 AM in response to girolamo1583

girolamo1583 wrote:

For moving data from an iMac to a new MacBook Pro, is it better to use migration assistant or time machine backup?



A cable connection is preferred.


A Time Machine is a viable copy of your User and all data— if it allows you to use the cable connection, for lack of port compatibility old to new. This is the same as connection mac to mac to move your content.


When I bought a new machine from Apple on-line they recommended USB-C to USB Adapter - Apple

It is the most basic for connection a USB to your new thunderbolt port.



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. Set up your MacBook Pro - Apple Support


The second best way is use the Migration Assistant.

How to move your content to a new Mac Move your content to a new Mac - Apple Support


Better to use migration assistant or time machine backup?

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