Can I backup to iCloud like phone and iPad?

[Gix1k]

I have a MBA and about to buy a MBP. Am I able to backup and restore using iCloud or is Time Machine my only option?

 

[BigBlur]

No, you can't backup and restore using iCloud. You can use Migration Assistant to transfer directly from the old Mac though. Apple doesn't mention it, but I believe you can use a Thunderbolt or USB 3 cable if you have one for faster transfer speeds.

Transfer to a new Mac with Migration Assistant - Apple Support

Migration Assistant transfers documents, apps, user accounts, and settings from one Mac to another. It doesn’t delete information from your old Mac or replace the operating system (macOS) on your new Mac.

support.apple.com

 

[NoBoMac]

but I believe you can use a Thunderbolt or USB 3 cable if you have one for faster transfer speeds.

Correct. How I recently transferred everything from my old Mac to new.