Best way to transfer data to new Mac

[erkanasu]

Upgrading from a 2009 MBP to 2011 MBP: Is the time machine backup the best way to transfer all of the data?

 

[Aniday]

Time Machine is made for backups for an already existing OS. I'd try Migration Assistant.

 

[John T]

Yes, Migration Assistant is the way to go. It will transfer all your settings and your 2011 MBP will effectively be as your original machine. Time Machine is really meant for day to day backups.

 

[saminsocks]

Not to bombard the post, but I have a followup question. I want to do a gradual restore of my applications and documents. Is there any way to do that without selecting files individually? I don't want to have to recreate my iTunes library and link my iPhones, plus I have CS5 and manually reinstalling it will require me to re-enter my serial number, which I don't have access to right now since I'm in the process of moving.

I didn't realize MA was an all or nothing deal when I erased my HD and reinstalled SL, so now I'm stuck.