Dell Transfer Files from Old to New Computer in Windows 10

Upgrading to a new Dell PC is exciting — faster performance, better hardware, and a fresh start. But before you can fully enjoy your new device, there’s one important task to complete: transferring your files safely and efficiently. If you’re searching for the best way to let Dell transfer files from old to new computer in Windows 10, you’re in the right place.

Best 2 tools for Dell transfer to new computer

Transferring files from an old Dell PC to a new one can be simple if you use the right tools. While Windows 10 offers basic file sharing options, dedicated tools can make the process faster, safer, and more reliable. Here are the two best tools for Dell file transfer.

1. Dell Migrate

Dell Migrate is a paid service that is part of the Dell SupportAssist software. It is designed specifically for one-way moves from any Windows 7+ PC to a new Dell Inspiron, XPS, or Alienware.

• Setting Migration: It doesn't just move files; it "remembers" your wallpaper, browser bookmarks, and even mouse/keyboard preferences.
• Ease of Use: It uses a simple pairing code to connect two PCs over your home Wi-Fi or Ethernet—no cables or external drives required.
• Data Sanitization: After the move, it includes a tool to securely erase the data on your old PC so you can sell or donate it safely.

2. AOMEI Backupper Standard

AOMEI Backupper Standard is a free backup and sync tool. It enables you to transfer files between computers of different brands, not just Dell.

Download AOMEI Backupper to try it out!

How to let Dell transfer files from old to new computer in Windows 10

Now learn how to move your personal files from old Dell to new Dell with the two tools mentioned above.

Method 1: Dell transfer files from old to new computer via Dell Migrate

Before you start running Dell Migrate, please do the following preparations:

• Plug in both PCs: Don’t rely on battery power mid-transfer.
• Connect to the same network: Both computers must be on the same local Wi-Fi or wired network.
• Admin rights: You’ll need to be logged in as an administrator on both.

Now follow the instructions below:

Step 1. On your new Dell PC:

• Search for SupportAssist in the Start menu and open it.
• Click Yes on the green banner 'Would you like to start using Dell Migrate?'.
• Click Let’s get started on the welcome page for Dell Migrate.

Step 2. On your old Dell PC:

• Go to the official site to download the Dell Data Assistant.
• Run Dell Data Assistant. Wait for the required prechecks to complete.
• Click Let’s get started on the welcome page for Dell Migrate.
• Once the Dell Data Assistant identifies the new computer on the network, it generates a verification code.

Step 3. Enter the verification code on your new computer. Once paired, a green verification code is shown on both computers.

Step 4. Dell Migrate starts to search on the old computer for the files and settings to be migrated from the old computer to the new computer.

🔔 Warning: On the old computer you are presented with an Erase This PC button. Only click the button once all your data is migrated successfully.

Step 5. Once the old computer has finished scanning the files and settings to migrate, you’ll see two options on your new computer:

• Move everything for me: It moves all the files and settings from the old computer to the new computer.
• Let me choose what to move: You can select the files and settings that you want to move.

Choose one option and click Migrate Now.

Step 6. After the migration is completed, the new computer displays the migration summary. Click Finish to complete the migration.

Step 7. (Optional) On the old computer, once the migration confirmation message is displayed, you can click Erase This PC to begin the removal of the data from the old computer.

Method 2: Dell transfer files to new computer with AOMEI Backupper

Before you start running AOMEI Backupper, please do the following preparations:

• Connect both computers to the same Wi-Fi network or LAN.
• Turn on Network discovery and File and printer sharing on both computers.
• Create a new shared folder on the old computer.

Now follow the steps below:

Step 1. Install and launch AOMEI Backupper on your old Dell computer. Click Sync and select Basic Sync.

Step 2. Click Select Source to select the folder(s) you want to transfer to the new Dell computer.

Step 3. Click the destination box and select Add Network Share in the next window. Then enter the IP address of your old computer, select the shared folder just created and click OK.

Step 4. Enable Schedule Sync and choose your preferred frequency as necessary. Finally, click Start Sync to begin file sync.

Step 5. After the sync process is finished, type the network path (e.g., \\192.168.0.17\share) in the search box on your new computer. Then you can see all the synced files. Copy those files elsewhere on your new computer as necessary.

✍Notes:
● To wipe hard drive before recycling your old computer, please click Tools > Disk Wipe.
● To transfer everything from one computer to another, please check this guide.

Fix common errors when transferring files between Dell computers

Even when using reliable tools, you may encounter issues while trying to transfer files from old Dell to new Dell computer. Below are the most common problems and practical solutions to help you complete the transfer smoothly.

1. Transfer Speed Is Extremely Slow

Possible Causes:

• Weak Wi-Fi signal
• Large file sizes
• Background applications consuming bandwidth

How to Fix:

• Switch to a wired Ethernet connection.
• Close unnecessary programs on both computers.
• Transfer large files in batches instead of all at once.
• Restart both PCs before retrying the transfer.

2. Files Missing After Transfer

Possible Causes:

• Transfer interrupted
• Incorrect destination folder selected
• Hidden files not copied

How to Fix:

• Check the default user folders: Documents, Desktop, Downloads, Pictures, Videos.
• Enable hidden files in File Explorer (View > Hidden items).
• Re-run the transfer for missing folders only.
• Verify available storage space on the new Dell PC.

3. Dell Migrate Not Working Properly

If you're using Dell Migrate and encounter errors, try the following solutions:

• Update Windows 10 on both computers.
• Uninstall and reinstall Dell Migrate.
• Restart both devices before attempting again.
• Ensure antivirus software is not blocking the application.

Conclusion

That’s all about how to let Dell transfer files from old to new computer in Windows 10. If you want to transfer files along with some system settings, try Dell Migrate. If you only want to transfer personal files, use the “Sync” feature (free of charge) in AOMEI Backupper.

What’s more, AOMEI Backupper is the best backup and restore software. You can use it to create Windows local backups and restore whenever needed. Why not give it a shot?