How to transfer data from one iPad to another

⏱ Time involved: 15–30 minutes

⚠️ Risk level: Low, unless you forget to back up first.

💡 Pro insight: We’ve seen transfers fail mid-sync more times than we can count—always double-check your Wi-Fi and iCloud login before you start.

⚙️ Skip the setup stress—visit your nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion store for safe, seamless data transfer.

So you got a new iPad® and can't wait to use it. But you probably want to transfer your apps, photos, videos, and contacts from your old tablet to your new one. There are several easy ways to do this.

At Asurion, we help people with their tech every day. From connecting your iPad to Wi-Fi to learning the best keyboard shortcuts for your iPad, we'll show you how to get more out of the devices you rely on most. Here's how to transfer data from iPad to iPad.

Transfer data from one iPad to another using Quick Start

The easiest way to transfer data from your old iPad to your new iPad is with the Quick Start feature. During the transfer process, Quick Start will take over both devices for several minutes up to two hours, depending on the speed of your Wi-Fi network. Here's what to do:

1. Make sure your current iPad is connected to Wi-Fi and that Bluetooth is on.
2. Turn on your new iPad and place it next to your current iPad.
3. When the prompt appears on your old iPad, check the Apple Account and tap Continue.
4. When the animation appears on your new iPad, use the camera viewfinder on your previous device to capture it (or tap Authenticate Manually).
5. Enter the passcode for your current iPad on the new device.
6. Set up Face ID or Touch ID on your new device.
7. When you see the Transfer Your Apps & Data screen, tap Transfer from iPad.
8. Keep your devices next to each other and connected to power until the transfer is finished.

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Transfer your iPad data with iCloud backup

If your old iPad won't turn on or if you don't want to wait for your data to sync, try using iCloud®. This will only work if you've already backed up your iPad data.

Here's how to transfer an old backup to your new iPad:

1. Turn on your new iPad to the "Hello" screen.
2. Select your language and country.
3. Tap Set Up Manually on the Quick Start screen.
4. Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
5. Enter the passcode used on your previous iPad.
6. Set up Face ID or Touch ID if you want to use these features.
7. On the Transfer Your Apps & Data screen, tap From iCloud Backup.
8. Sign in with your Apple Account email and password.
9. Choose the most relevant backup from the list (usually the most recent).
10. If prompted, follow the steps to update your software so the backup can be installed.
11. Keep your device plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi until the progress bar completes.

Transfer iPad data with Finder or iTunes

You can easily transfer data to your new device using Finder® or iTunes® if you've backed up the data from your current iPad to your computer. If you need help doing so, check out our guide on how to sync your iPad to your computer.

Here's how to transfer data to your new iPad:

1. Turn on your new iPad to the "Hello" screen.
2. Select your language and country.
3. Choose Set Up Manually on the Quick Start screen.
4. Connect to your Wi-Fi network.
5. Enter the passcode from your previous iPad.
6. Set up Face ID or Touch ID if you wish to use these features.
7. On the Transfer Your Apps & Data screen, select From Mac or PC.
8. Connect your new iPad to your computer using the appropriate cable.
9. Open Finder on a Mac, or the Apple Devices app on a Windows PC. (If you are using an older PC or an older macOS, open iTunes).
10. On your iPad, tap Trust if the "Trust This Computer?" prompt appears, and enter your passcode.
11. On your computer, select your iPad from the sidebar and click Restore Backup.
12. Choose the desired backup from the list and keep the iPad connected until the process is complete and the device restarts.

FAQ

Will everything transfer to my new iPad?

Most data, including photos, contacts, messages, notes, settings, and many apps, can transfer automatically. Some apps may require you to sign in again afterward.

Can I transfer data to a new iPad after I've already set it up?

Yes, but you may need to erase the new iPad and start over if you want to use Quick Start. Alternatively, you can manually sync data through iCloud®.

How long does it take to transfer data from iPad to iPad?

It depends on how much data you're moving. Smaller transfers may take just a few minutes, while large photo libraries or app collections can take an hour or more.

Do I need Wi-Fi to transfer data between iPads?

Usually yes. Wi-Fi is required for iCloud transfers and helps speed up Quick Start transfers.

Should I keep my old iPad after the transfer?

Yes. Wait until you've verified that your photos, files, apps, and settings are all present on the new device before erasing or trading in the old one.