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Modern technology has made us so accustomed to quickly receiving and sending data that it’s important to know how to transfer files on a plethora of devices quickly. Sure, you could plug in your Android to your PC using a cable and move files the old-fashioned way, but that method is time-consuming and challenging to navigate.
Instead, try wireless file transfers. Transferring files between PC and Android systems is quite simple once you learn how. While Apple users can use AirDrop to move files wirelessly between iOS and macOS, Android users need to think outside of the box.
Just because Android file transfers require a third-party application, it doesn’t mean they are impossible. Since it’s easy to move your files without depending on a specific OS destination, you can transfer documents to both Windows and Mac, unlike AirDrop.
If you’re on the hunt for the best way to wirelessly move your computer files to Android, here are the top ways to do it.
Transfer Files from Your PC to Android Using a Wi-Fi Network (WLAN)
The best way to transfer files between your PC and Android is to send them over a shared wireless network. You can use many apps for this, such as Wi-Fi File Transfer on Android and Air Transfer on iOS. Some file browsers also incorporate Wi-Fi file transfers. Just open the app, browse, copy, and paste into the other device’s folders. For file browsers, you generally go to the network section, WLAN section, or something similar. It searches for available devices, and you select the device you need.
Transfer Files Using a Wireless Media Reader
Devices that are increasingly handy for managing media include portable NAS (Network Attached Storage) drives and wireless media readers. These devices get loaded up with media via an SD card or USB drive, which can then be accessed by connecting to the device’s Wi-Fi hotspot.
The key features of NAS drives or wireless media readers are the ability for multiple users to access them at once and the fact that they get used independently of an internet connection. Most of them can also act as a power bank to keep your phone or tablet going for more extended periods.
Transfer Files Between Android and PC Using Bluetooth
In the early days of smartphones, Bluetooth was the perfect way to swap small amounts of data. While it’s not ideal for bigger-sized downloads, it remains a convenient way to transfer files. Since most current-generation laptops are Bluetooth enabled, it’s also a snap to set up.
- Make sure your PC’s Bluetooth is on. If active, you’ll see the icon in the System Tray. The icon will also display in the Action Center whether Bluetooth is on or off.
- Once Bluetooth is enabled, right-click the icon in the System Tray and select Add a Bluetooth Device.
- In the Bluetooth Settings window, select Add Bluetooth or other device.
- In the Add a Device popup menu, select Bluetooth to search for your Android device. On Android, you may need to open your Bluetooth settings and hit the refresh icon to reactivate search-and-find functionality, or Windows won’t discover it.
- Click on the device when it appears. You may also need to select the PC name on the Android device while Windows attempts to connect.
- Your PC will then show you a code to ensure that you’re connecting to the right device, which should also appear on your smartphone or tablet’s screen. Verify that the codes match, and then select Yes.
- Once you’ve clicked next, the two devices should pair, ready to swap files in the same way you would between two mobile devices.
Transfer Files Between Android and PC Using Cloud Storage
Google Drive and Dropbox are still some of the best options for wirelessly moving data. Both options are platform-agnostic and accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, making for an easy way to share multiple files or folders with minimal fuss.
Since Google Drive comes pre-installed on Android, we’d recommend that as your first stop. That said, if you prefer Dropbox, both apps work almost identically. The only drawback is the limited storage space on Dropbox’s free tier, but if you’re syncing a small number of files, it shouldn’t cause you much trouble.
Transfer Files Between Android and PC Wirelessly Using Email
Finally, email is often the go-to solution for quickly sharing photos or documents with friends and co-workers, and for a good reason. It may be getting a little old but emailing yourself the desired attachments is still a great way to swap files between your PC and your Android device.
Depending on the email service you use, there may be a cap to how much you can send. Sending an email with documents attached should work, but don’t expect to spend hours sending video footage without issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Transferring files between your Android and PC should be hassle-free and without limitations. If you have more questions, keep reading.
How do I transfer large files between my PC and Android?
If you have large files to transfer, but the methods above aren’t working for you, you’ll need to resort to another option. Your best bet is to use your phone’s charger and transfer larger files via USB. The process is fairly simple.
– All you need to do is plug your phone into its charger, and the USB end into the USB port on your PC.
– Then, a pop-up will appear asking if you’d like to allow your computer to have access to your phone. Approve any permissions required and you’re all set!
If you run into problems, it’s likely because you’ll need to turn on USB debugging on your phone. That process is simple too!
– Just open the Settings on your Android device and search for Build Number (typically located under About Phone>Software Information).
– Tap Build Number seven times to unlock your devices’ developer options.
– Then, head back to settings, tap on Developer Options, and toggle the switch next to USB Debugging on.
Are there any third-party applications that help transfer files between devices?
Absolutely! Where Windows and Android fail, third-party services come through to help. You can do a quick search for an app that meets your specific needs or use a more popular service such as Droid Transfer or Dr. Fone.
Network File Transfers
There are numerous ways to transfer files between your PC and Android device wirelessly. For small files, the simplest method is to use email, Bluetooth, or a portable NAS device. When transferring larger files, you’ll want to use a NAS device, portable or otherwise.
How do you transfer files from your PC to Android? Please feel free to share your suggestions and solutions in the comments below.
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