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January 24th, 2024 03:03
Dell Migrate: Easy-Peasy PC2PC Transfer?
XPS 8700
I have a 10-year old Dell XPS 8700 desktop PC that is running Windows 10 and still working nicely. However, I know it can’t last forever, so I am being proactive and getting ready to purchase a new one.
I am very concerned about moving everything from the old PC to the new. Ideally I will be running both computers side-by-side, to facilitate the transfer process.
Still, it sounds like it is going to be a hassle. I’ve been poking around the web for the easiest solution, as I am not tech savvy and simple is best for me. Here’s what I’ve found so far:
a) There is no easy solution. Unlike Apple computers, files can be transferred, but programs cannot (thanks, Microsoft!)
b) Available software solutions (such as Laplink’s “PC Mover” or EaseUS’s “Todo PCTrans”), which claim to move everything, including programs, is problematic and get middling reviews. It seems a “clean install” of programs is recommended, which is fine with me as I don’t have that many programs to install.
c) When it comes to moving files (documents, photos, music, etc.), I’ve read that uploading my files to the cloud via OneDrive is an easy method, but I don’t use OneDrive and I’d rather not have all of my personal info stored in the cloud.
I’ve also read that cable connections between PCs may be the easiest way to go. The “Plugable Easy Transfer Cable” seems okay, and Dell has “Dell Migrate,” which transfers files and also the settings from my old PC, so that my new PC will resemble my old one. This idea appeals to me, since I am more than happy with my current setup.
I was wondering if anyone has any experience with Plugable or Dell Migrate. Of course, I am open to any and all suggestions concerning the transfer process in general. Your recommendations are welcome and more than appreciated!
redxps630
9 Legend
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January 24th, 2024 16:40
to make it easy for you, here are two suggestions:
(1) simply move the hdd or sdd in 8700 to new pc as the boot drive, assuming the Win 10 in 8700 was installed via UEFI bios mode
(2) or clone the hdd in 8700 system image to an external usb hdd, then restore the image on the new ssd of new pc, assuming new ssd is equal or larger in capacity, and Win 10 in 8700 was installed via UEFI
RoHe
10 Elder
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January 24th, 2024 19:24
FWIW, there are some online reviews of Dell Migrate which you might want to read, eg here.
I have no connections to that reviewer, and I've never used Dell Migrate...
ispalten
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January 25th, 2024 14:29
@wendigone
I've done it 'manually' with great success, and do it on all my update systems.
What I need is a LAN, that is my preferred connection.
Windows, like you said does not allow program transfer. However, MANY programs can be, as long as the Install doesn't spread files around (like DLL's) and/or make Registry entries.
Also, most games keep scores and configuration data in your USER folder on C: drive.
There are folders you want to copy over, like DOCUMENTS on C:. However the real work you have to do before moving 'stuff' is locating on the OLD system where is the Data you need? Many programs you have will in setting or other ways tell you where the data lies. Then it is a simple case to put the data in the same place (folder and drive) as it was before. However, before doing that INSTALL the program to the new system. Then copy the required data over. In many cases, that would be all you need do. However, some program, like Thunderbird keeps its data in a specific folder, but in a new install of it, you'd have to go into the settings to point it to the data you copied over. Close and re-open, everything there.
Yes, that sounds like a lot of work, depending on how much you want to transfer over. I recall many of the other 'purchased' methods of moving data does not completely work or requires programs to be reinstalled.
I guess I've been lucky, the few games I have I've found where all the data was and was able to copy it over as well as most games. Then, once done, just create a desktop icon and it all worked fine.
Lacking a LAN, you could use 'sneaker net', that is writing files to a flash drive or R/W CD/DVD and use it on the new PC... takes longer, why a LAN with both PC's on it is a lot easier, especially if you hadn't found the data or put it in the wrong place, easy to look on the OLD PC and figure out why it didn't work or what you missed, and get the data or what to change.
Good luck, hope it works out for you how ever you do it.