Profile Migration to new machine: Target not working?

[Christopher11]

Hey guys, thank you in advance for any help. I bought a 2021 M1 MB Pro 16, a real powerhouse to replace my 2019 MB Pro. I've always used Profile Migration without issue, but I can't seem to get the (old) 2019 MB Pro to show up via Target mode on the (new) M1 machine via USB C cable. I tried several cables and tested each, the one I'm using now works fine for anything else including Mac adapter.

I also tried creating a quick Admin account on the new machine and transferring using WiFi, with both on the same network, it didn't show up that way either. Grateful for any help, thank you.

 

[Bigwaff]

What version of macOS running on 2019 MBP? Target Disk mode isn’t used anymore for Migration Assistant. Just start Migration Assistant on 2019 MBP. Although, I recommend use Thunderbolt 3 cable. USB-C cable only transfer at USB 2.0 speeds.

Transfer to a new Mac with Migration Assistant - Apple Support (HK)

Use Migration Assistant to copy your files from another computer.

support.apple.com

 

[Fishrrman]

My opinion is different than waff's (not "better", just different).

I recommend using an external backup drive for migration.
You can use time machine, but I think a backup created with either SuperDuper or CarbonCopyCloner will go faster.

Make sure the new Mac is "clean/untouched" before migrating (that is, you haven't created an account or actually done anything with it yet).
NOTE: you can restore an m-series Mac to "moment zero" by using the "erase all content and settings" option -- it will be as if you just took it out of the box again.)

Take the new Mac out of the box and put it on the table.
DON'T power it up yet.
Run "a last backup" on the old Mac.
Disconnect the backup drive and connect to the new Mac.
Press the power on button and begin setup.
When setup assistant asks if you wish to migrate from another drive, YES, you do -- point the way to the backup drive.
SA will "digest" everything and present you with a list of stuff to migrate.
Usually the best choice is "the easy way" -- migrate everything.
Alternate route -- UNCHECK applications, migrate the rest. Then re-install apps you want (useful for moving forward when apps are old and outdated)

SA will do its job, and when done, you should see your old desktop, ready to log in and look around...

 

[Christopher11]

Thank you guys. I later remembered I had backed up my 2019 machine to SSD, so I just did it from that. I love my new laptop! So I guess I arrived at Fishrman's suggestion, essentially. Great advice from both of you, thank you sincerely.