Cable for data transfer from 2013 iMac to 2025 iMac

The recommended cable for the fastest direct data transfer from a 2013 iMac to a 2025 iMac using Migration Assistant is a combination of adapters and a cable due to the different port technologies on the two computers.

The 2013 iMac uses Thunderbolt 2 ports, while the 2025 iMac uses Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports.

Here is what you'll need for a cable connection:

* Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter: This adapter plugs into the Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) port on your new 2025 iMac.

* Thunderbolt 2 Cable: This cable connects the Thunderbolt 2 adapter on the new iMac to the Thunderbolt 2 port on your old 2013 iMac.

You will use Apple's built-in Migration Assistant software for this transfer, which is the standard way to move files between two Macs.

Alternative and Recommended Transfer Methods

Because of the age difference, using a cable and adapters can sometimes be complicated or slower than newer methods. The two best alternatives that don't require special cables are:

1. External Time Machine Backup (Recommended)

This is often the most reliable and simplest method, as it breaks the migration into two easy steps:

* Step 1: Backup Old iMac: Back up your entire 2013 iMac to an external USB hard drive using Time Machine. The 2013 iMac has USB-A ports, so a standard USB-A external drive will work.

* Step 2: Restore to New iMac: Disconnect the drive from the old iMac and connect it to your new 2025 iMac (you may need a USB-A to USB-C adapter to plug your older drive into the new iMac's Thunderbolt/USB-C ports). Then, use Migration Assistant to restore the data from the Time Machine backup onto the new Mac.

2. Wi-Fi or Ethernet

You can also use Migration Assistant to transfer your data over a network connection:

* Wi-Fi: Ensure both Macs are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and are physically close to each other. This method is the simplest in terms of setup but can be very slow for large amounts of data.

* Ethernet: For a faster network connection, you can connect both Macs to the same network router using Ethernet cables. The 2013 iMac has a standard Ethernet port. The 2025 iMac typically has Ethernet built into its power adapter (on some models), or you might need a USB-C to Ethernet adapter if it doesn't.

If you already have a Thunderbolt 2 cable and the necessary adapter, a direct Thunderbolt connection will be the fastest method. If not, the Time Machine backup method is the most straightforward.

For a visual guide on the entire process, this video provides a step-by-step walkthrough of using Migration Assistant with various connection methods:

How to Transfer All Files & Apps from Old Mac to New Mac | Step by Step Guide.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=-PjFg0hILzI

Please read Setup Assistant and Migration Assistant and this will explain EVERYTHING that is necessary. DO NOT connect the two Macs together, use the method explained in the link. Why, because it works 100% of the time and is the fastest, most reliable and most efficient method.

on using Time Machine backup drive with MA.