how to transfer my files to new mac

That depends on the amount of files you select to transfer and the connection method. In general it should take no more than an hour or so in my experience. The following explains the process. Migration Assistant is a program provided by Apple for transferring your files from your old computer to your new computer. It is very easy to use. Be sure to read and follow its instructions. Basically, the process is as follows.

You first begin by starting the process of setting up your new computer. You will be asked if you wish to transfer files. Respond YES and follow the instructions you will be given.

·      You will be told to turn both computers on and activate Migration Assistant in the old computer.

·      The computers should be connected with a cable to facilitate the transfer. Wi-Fi is not suited for a transfer of so much data and corruption often results. If you must use it, make sure the two computers are located close together.

·      You will be given several options of what to transfer. You will likely want to transfer your settings and preferences.

·      You can transfer all or none of your files. You do not have an option to select certain files to transfer. If you wish to do that, then do so manually. You can transfer all or none of your installed apps. Some people elect to download fresh installations to the new computer instead.

·      The old computer's operating system will not be transferred. No data from the old computer is erased.

·      Allow for up to an hour for the transfer process to complete once you start it.

·      It should set up the new computer the same as the old one.

·      When that is successful, you can log into the new Mac with the old User Account name and password and delete the brand-new user or leave it in place as a second admin account.

Enjoy your new Mac.

I hope this is helpful. Good luck.

Great advice above.

In very broad terms, it takes about the same amount of time as a Full Backup -- an hour to all afternoon, depending on how much data needs to be moved.

But since it ties up both computers for the duration, and does not allow anything else to run, I suggest you start it late in the day and let it run all night or until it finishes.