Transferring data from old laptop to new one
This is a great time of year to buy a new computer, especially if it's been several years since your last upgrade. If you do buy a new laptop, you'll probably want to transfer all of your data from your old laptop to the new one. Roger from Findlay, Ohio, emailed us asking for help with buying a new laptop and what software he can use to affordably move his data from his old laptop to his new one. Here's what he is asking:
"I am a retired 75-year-old living on a fixed income. I only use my laptop for emails, banking, and the occasional solitaire game. I currently have a Lenovo Ideapad 110. I need to buy a new laptop. What laptop would be a good replacement for me, keeping in mind the cost and the limited usage I would need? What is the most cost-effective way to transfer my data to the new laptop? I have received prices from $100.00 to $200.00 just for the transfer from old to new. I could use some direction that will help me move forward."
To answer this question, I'll explain how to buy a new laptop and transfer your data. I'll also include links to a few affordable laptops that can handle your daily emails and web surfing. Please keep reading to see our favorite laptops and software for data transfers.
The first thing I recommend doing is looking at Kurt's picks for the best laptops you can buy right now. You can read the article in detail here. If you're in search of a laptop that can handle daily tasks such as browsing and emailing, check out these options from Acer, Lenovo and Asus.
Each laptop has enough processing power to make everything feel snappy, but none are ideal for a heavy workload. If you are just looking for something to check your email with and play the occasional game of Solitaire, the Acer Aspire 3 is your most affordable option. If you want something with 2-in-1 touchscreen functionality, then I would recommend the Lenovo Yoga 9i. The ASUS Zenbook 14 is a miniature powerhouse and a great option for anyone who wants to push a lightweight, portable laptop for content creation. Be sure to check out Kurt's picks for the best laptops for 2025.
There are two different ways you can use an external storage device to transfer your old data to your new computer. Here they are:
USB flash drive: Copy the files you want to transfer to a USB flash drive, then plug it into the new computer and copy the files over. Be aware that many flash drive storage spaces tend to be on the smaller side. This won't be a problem if you are just transferring documents and emails to a new laptop, but if you have a lot of media files (photographs, videos, etc.), then you might be better suited with an external hard drive. Follow these steps:
For Windows
For Mac
External hard drive: Similar to a USB flash drive, but with more storage capacity. External hard drives come as either portable Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) or Solid State Drives (SSDs). Portable SSDs tend to have higher capacity and are faster than HDDs, but cost more. If you need to transfer a lot of media files, in particular videos and photographs, I recommend choosing a portable SSD. Follow these steps:
For Windows
For Mac
Transferring data from an old laptop to a new one with cloud storage makes the process easy, but it's also largely dependent on how much data you are transferring and how fast your internet speed is. Transferring data with a physical drive is always faster, but if you have a speedy internet connection and don't want to buy additional accessories, then transferring via cloud storage is an excellent way to bring your new data over to a new computer.
If you have tried using cloud storage to transfer your data but found it too slow, you can utilize a network transfer with an Ethernet cable or over Wi-Fi to make the process go faster.
Ethernet Cable: Connect both computers to the same network using an Ethernet cable, enable file sharing and transfer the files directly.
Wi-Fi: Ensure both computers are on the same Wi-Fi network, enable file sharing and transfer the files wirelessly.
There's a wide range of third-party software you can also use to transfer your data. We prefer EaseUS Todo PCTrans, which you can learn more about below:
EaseUS Todo PCTrans (PC) – This powerful data migration software simplifies transferring files, applications and user settings between computers on the same network. It offers a streamlined way to move your data without the hassle of manual transfers. Learn more about it here.
Migration Assistant (Mac) – Built into macOS, Migration Assistant allows you to easily transfer files, settings and applications from one Mac to another or from a Time Machine backup. This free tool ensures a smooth transition when setting up a new Mac. Learn more about it here.
If you are looking for an in-depth guide on the different ways to transfer data to a new laptop, see my in-depth guide here.
Buying a new computer is exciting, but beyond transferring your data, there are several important steps to ensure a smooth setup and optimal performance. Here's what I recommend:
For a step-by-step guide on everything to do when setting up a new computer, check out these tips: Setting up a new PC | Setting up a new Mac.
And once you've got your new computer up and running, don't forget to securely dispose of your old device to protect your data. Learn how to do that here.
Buying a new computer is an exciting time, but there are a lot of different ways to set up your new computer and make it truly yours. We have several guides on everything you need to do with a new Windows computer or a new Mac, and you can always reach out to us via email if you have more questions.
What is your biggest concern when it comes to upgrading your technology? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
Follow Kurt on his social channels:
Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:
New from Kurt:
Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
3 hours ago
- Forbes
Microsoft's Bad News—500 Million Windows Users Must Now Decide
Surprising bad news suddenly hits Microsoft. A new warning has been issued for Windows users, whose PCs have been described as 'magnets for security threats,' just as new data gives Microsoft a surprising bad news story ahead of the critical next few months. You can expect many more such warnings as 500-million Windows users face an increasingly urgent decision. The latest advice comes courtesy of PC maker Asus, pointing out that 'if you're still using Windows 10 or, dare we say it, something even older — your computer's days of regular updates and support are numbered.' As for upgrades, 'what makes Windows 11 different?," Asus says. "one word: Copilot," as it pushes the latest range of AI PCs. Clearly, you don't need to decide on a premium Copilot PC to benefit from Windows 11's future-proofing, ensuring your PC receives critical security updates after Windows 10's demise in October. AI PCs remain a niche, despite projections they will eventually dominate new PC sales. Right now, there's a more fundamental decision to make. Windows 10 versus Windows 11 globally. The latest Windows market data presents a painfully bleak picture with just over five months to run until free Windows 10 security updates end for all users. Paid extensions are available, but they're expensive for enterprises and restricted to just 12-months for home users who also must pay. Microsoft is pushing free upgrades not paid extensions. A month ago, it seemed Windows 11 had turned the tide against Windows 10. The newer OS already outanks its older sibling in the U.S. but not globally. Come the end of April, though, Windows 11 was within 10% of Windows 11 for the first time. 'Just over half (53%) of all users are still on Windows 10, but that's inching down month by month.' Not any more, it seems. While more directional than exact, Statcounter's data at the end of May shows a slight month-over-month increase for Windows 10, while Windows 11 dips. This after four months of steady progress the other way. Windows 10 is holding stubbornly above 50% while Windows 11 remains 10% behind. Windows 10 versus Windows 11 in U.S. This means there are around 750 million users are yet to upgrade to Windows 11, of which at least 240 million don't have an eligible PC. That still leaves around 500 million users who can take up Microsoft's offer for a free Windows 11 upgrade but have not. Even in the U.S., where Windows 11 has overtaken Windows 10, May's data suggests Windows 10 has grown its share from 41% in April to more than 43%, while Windows 11 drops a more worrying 3.5%, from 56.5% down to below 53%. All this makes June's data critical. Come the end of this month, there will be just three months until Windows 10 is shuttered. If Microsoft is to avoid a cybersecurity nightmare hitting mid-October, something need to change. For all those Windows 10 users with PCs eligible for a free upgrade, do not run out of time.
Yahoo
20 hours ago
- Yahoo
Tech leader unveils groundbreaking laptop concept that runs on sunlight and folds flat like a book: 'Worth keeping an eye on'
Lenovo has been known to push the boundaries of laptop design, and its latest concept devices continue to deliver fresh innovations that include solar power. At Mobile World Congress 2025, the laptop maker revealed both the Lenovo ThinkBook Flip AI PC and Yoga Solar PC concepts, which could inform the next generation of consumer laptops. CNBC said that given the company's track record of bringing these innovative designs to market, "it's worth keeping an eye on what the Chinese technology giant is up to." The ThinkBook "codename Flip" AI PC, as the company called it, showed off an outward folding OLED display that can provide 18 inches of visual workspace or be folded over for a tablet-style interface. Workflows powered by artificial intelligence, split-screen multitasking, and smart workspace adaptation are being tested in this unique design. Sustainable power is also on the mind of Lenovo engineers, who worked up the Yoga Solar PC proof of concept to help capture the power of the sun to extend the device's runtime. This model includes a photovoltaic cell with 24% energy conversion efficiency, which is one of the best ratings available on the market, the company said. It's achieved through its Back Contact Cell technology, which places brackets and gridlines behind the solar cell for maximum absorption. Its Dynamic Solar Tracking system monitors the panel's current and voltage, working alongside the Solar-First Energy system for prioritizing the sun's rays for energy savings and stability. It can even generate power in low-light conditions while the PC is idle. The Yoga Solar PC can convert enough direct sunlight in 20 minutes to power up to one hour of video playback, according to the company. Measuring just 15 millimeters thin and weighing approximately 2.7 pounds, it's being called the world's first ultra-slim solar-powered PC. This improves upon Samsung's NC215S, which was reportedly the first laptop to include an integrated solar panel in 2011 and needed two hours of sunlight to run for one hour. Engineers and designers are realizing the potential of harnessing the sun's rays to power devices big and small across a variety of applications. What kind of solar tech would you be the most willing to use? Rooftop panels Community solar A portable solar generator None of the above Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. By leveraging renewable energy sources at every opportunity, we can more rapidly eliminate the use of dirty fuels and promote a cleaner, safer environment. Aptera's battery-powered electric vehicle includes solar panels on much of its exterior that help extend its runtime, while other companies have designed portable solar cells to help charge electric vehicles while parked. Lenovo has a track record of sustainable endeavors, championing repairs when possible to reduce waste, and offering cash for trade-ins so they can handle old devices more responsibly. Mary Jacques, Lenovo's executive director of Global ESG and Regulatory Compliance, told The Cool Down last year: "Our customers are really hungry for more and more information about not just the products that they're buying, but the impact that we can have on their sustainability journey." Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Gizmodo
21 hours ago
- Gizmodo
Amazon Is Offloading the Newest Lenovo Ideapad (15″, 512GB, Win 11 Pro), Now 73% Off and Practically Free
For students and those who live on a small budget, shelling out $1,000 (or even $2,000) for a MacBook is an out-of-reach dream. Fortunately, this year's market offers a great alternative without having you compromise on performance or features: The Lenovo Ideapad, which was released this year, is currently available on Amazon for a price so cheap it's not thought to be true. For an insane 73% discount, the 15-inch portable touchscreen computer (16GB RAM, 512GB storage) is on sale for $519, down from its regular price of $1,899. This isn't a sale, it's a clearance and Amazon seems to be clearing out its stock with a deal that makes this Windows 11 Pro laptop one of the best deals going. See at Amazon Great Portable Laptop in 2025 The Lenovo Ideapad in question is a touchscreen 15.6-inch machine, so it's perfect for work and play. Its Full HD (1920×1080) IPS display offers an anti-glare, clear view at 300 nits brightness which makes it easy to see comfortably in a bright room or outdoors. The inclusion of a responsive touch screen is the icing on the cake and makes easy navigation and instant availability of apps and features possible. Under the hood, this laptop is powered by a 12th-generation Intel Core i5-1235U processor with 10 cores (2 performance and 8 efficiency) and 12 threads which has up to 4.4GHz available on the performance cores and 3.3GHz on the efficiency cores. With the setup, this 2025 Ideapad can easily handle demanding tasks such as multitasking with many browser windows open or using creative tools or even light gaming. Memory and storage are two areas where this Ideapad is great, especially for its price point. With 16GB of DDR4 RAM, you'll enjoy smooth performance whether you're editing documents, streaming videos, or switching between applications. The 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD provides ample space for all your files, while also ensuring fast boot times and quick access to your data. There is also a useful selection of ports: a USB 2.0, a USB 3.2 Gen 1, a USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 (data transfer), an HDMI 1.4b port, a headphone/microphone combo port, a card reader, and a charging connector. Lenovo Ideapad comes with Windows 11 Professional in S mode which gives a safe and optimized experience right from the box. You can turn off the S mode if you require access to additional apps beyond the Microsoft Store. With Amazon's current promotion, you're getting a laptop that would normally cost nearly four times as much: make sure you get yours before it runs out of stock! See at Amazon
