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Why is a TM backup file larger than my hard drive?

I have a Time Machine backup file for an older MacBook Pro. I think the size of the hard drive was 500GB or less, however, the backup file is 815GB. How can this be? And will I have problems restoring this backup file on any hard drive that is 500GB or less in size? Maybe with the Migration Assistant I'll be able to pick and choose what to restore so I can make this work?


Thank you.

MacBook Pro Apple Silicon 2023

Posted on Mar 6, 2023 4:36 PM

Reply
1 reply

Mar 6, 2023 4:50 PM in response to bentStaple



bentStaple wrote:

I have a Time Machine backup file for an older MacBook Pro. I think the size of the hard drive was 500GB or less, however, the backup file is 815GB. How can this be? And will I have problems restoring this backup file on any hard drive that is 500GB or less in size? Maybe with the Migration Assistant I'll be able to pick and choose what to restore so I can make this work?

Thank you.



Post back if you have an issue after run the restore—


Restore your Mac from a backup

Restore your Mac from a backup - Apple Support


Why is a TM backup file larger than my hard drive?

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