Quick Links
Transferring large files from one PC to another can be a slow and frustrating experience. So, you’ll be pleased to know that a USB-to-USB cable will transfer those files much faster and more reliably than most wired and wireless options.
Why I Use a USB Cable to Transfer Files From PC to PC
I’ve spent many hours trying to migrate my files from my laptop to a desktop PC. Using the cloud, I quickly realized how slow and unreliable it can be. So, I tried using a USB flash drive, but its limited storage meant I had to go back and forth between PCs just to transfer a portion of my files each time. I could have used an Ethernet cable, but my laptop didn’t have an RJ45 port. After a bit of research, I found that a PC-to-PC file transfer was possible using a USB cable.
After setting up both PCs and transferring my files, I found that using a wired connection using a USB-to-USB transfer cable was way faster, more reliable, and more convenient than any other means I had at the time.
However, you can’t just use any regular USB cable. Depending on the PCs you’re planning to connect, there are two types of USB cables you can buy for PC-to-PC file transfer.
Choosing the Right USB Cable for PC-to-PC Connection
When connecting one or two older PCs using a USB-A port with the USB 3.0 (blue port), you will need to buy aUSB Transfer Cable. This cable comes integrated with a built-in bridge circuit that allows two PCs to communicate. These cables will also come with software to help manage connections and let you transfer files from one PC to another.
USB transfer cables are available withdifferent USB interfaces and specifications. To connect older PCs, choose a transfer cable that utilizes a USB-A interface with USB 3.x specifications, while newer computers should use transfer cables with either a USB-A or USB-C interface with USB4 specifications.
If both PCs support thelatest Thunderbolt specifications, skip the USB transfer cable and buy aUSB-C to USB-C Thunderbolt Cable. Since Thunderbolt ports use a combination of PCIe and DisplayPort serial communication, using a USB-C Thunderbolt cable for PC-to-PC file transfer is possible.
However, if you haven’t specifically bought a USB-C to USB-C Thunderbolt 4 cable or got one bundled from a Thunderbolt Hub, you may still have to buy one since Thunderbolt cables aren’t typically given as freebies on most phones, tablets, or laptops.
How to Use USB Cable for PC-to-PC File Transfer
Once you have the right cable, setting up and transferring files is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the process easy and efficient.
Step 1: Install the Software
Transferring files using a USB transfer cable or a USB-C Thunderbolt cable will require you to install software to manage the connection. Most USB transfer cables will either come with a CD, USB flash drive, or a QR code/link to get a copy of its software. While those using Thunderbolt connection candownload Thunderbolt Sharesoftware from the official download page.
Step 2: Connect the USB Transfer Cable
Plug the USB cable into both computers. verify each end is connected to the correct port (USB-A or USB-C) on each PC. The connection will typically be recognized automatically.
Step 3: Open the Transfer Program
If your cable uses dedicated software, open it on both PCs. The program should display both file directories and allow you to drag and drop files between them.
Step 4: Start the File Transfer
you’re able to move files by selecting them and dragging and dropping them from one PC to another. However, you must verify that the files have been transferred before closing the program and unplugging the cable.
Using a USB transfer cable or a Thunderbolt cable for PC-to-PC file transfers is a quick, reliable, and secure way to move files. If you often move large files from one computer to another, investing in a quality USB transfer or Thunderbolt cable should save you valuable time, money, and effort in the long run.
