External drives · Using drives with PCs, iPads and other Macs

Can I plug my old Mac's drive into my new Mac and get my files?

Short answer: Usually yes — newer Macs read Mac drive formats, so the old drive mounts like any external one. Copy what you need or use Migration Assistant. Expect permission prompts on the old user folder, and the old password for an encrypted drive.

Usually yes. Mac drive formats are readable by newer Macs, so an old Mac's drive — in an external enclosure or adapter, or the old Mac connected in target or sharing mode — mounts like any external drive. Copy what you need, or use Migration Assistant to bring over accounts, apps and settings properly.

Things to expect:

  • Files in the old user folder may need your password, or show permission prompts.
  • An encrypted (FileVault) drive asks for the old account's password.
  • The newest Macs' internal drives can't be removed, so use Migration Assistant or a backup from them instead.

For loose drives from old computers, see connecting a bare internal drive.

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