Merging account from old machine as second user to new machine

[Segi_de]

Hey there,
as I could not properly find what I was looking for via Google or the forum search I thought I will give this a try here:

So I am thinking about moving the user account and all data from my wifes old Macbook (Early 2014) to my current M1 MBA. However, I was wondering whether I can (by using migration assistant) migrate her macbook user account and the associated data as a new user to my current macbook m1. Is that supported by the migration assistant? Or do I need to set up a new user on my machine and copy/ reinstall whats needed for her individually?

 

[satcomer]

I would only transfer videos/music and saved email mailboxes and documents! Don't transfer to old programs because they probably will not run today!

 

[Fishrrman]

It can be done, quite easily.

You will need a backup of the wife's MacBook on an external USB3 drive. Do you have one?

If so, do this:
- connect the backup to the MBA
- open migration assistant (utilities folder)
- start "clicking through"
- "point the way" to the backup drive when MA asks where the files are
- give MA time to "digest everything"
- MA will now present you with "a checklist" of stuff to migrate
- I suggest you go through this list methodically and UNCHECK EVERYTHING EXCEPT your wife's account
- Now, let migration assistant go to work

This should move your wife's user folder into the "users" folder on the MBA.
Since your account already occupies the user ID number "501" space, your wife's account will move into the ID number "502" space.

When done, quit MA.
Log out of your account.
Let your wife see if she can log into HER account.
She should "take a look around".
Is everything there, that she needs to be there...?

NOTE:
If you DON'T have a backup, it still might be possible to do this via wifi.
But it will be somewhat slower.
Never tried that, myself...