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.

There are two different ways you can use an external storage device to transfer your old data to your new computer. Here they are:

For Windows

For Mac

For Windows 

For Mac

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.

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:

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:

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.

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