How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to Laptop steps(2025)
Have got tons of memories stored on your iPhone and need more space? Or maybe you just want to keep a backup of your photos on your laptop? Either way,
learning how to transfer photos from iPhone to laptop is a smart move. Whether you’re using a USB cable, prefer wireless methods, or need to do it on Windows 11, we’ve got you covered with all the easy steps!
Things You Need to Know How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to Laptop steps(2025) Before You Start
Before diving in, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Unlock your iPhone and tap “Trust This Computer” when connecting for the first time.
- Make sure your Windows 11 laptop has the latest updates.
- If you’re going wireless, ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Install iTunes (even for Windows users) if your iPhone isn’t detected via USB.
Method 1 – Transfer Photos Using a USB Cable
This is the old-school way — simple, quick, and works every time (unless your cable is damaged).
Step-by-step for Windows 11 users
- Connect your iPhone to your laptop using a Lightning-to-USB cable.
- On your iPhone, unlock it and select “Trust This Computer” if asked.
- On your laptop, open File Explorer.
- Click This PC > Find your iPhone listed as a device.
- Open the DCIM folder and copy-paste the photos manually.
Using the Photos App
- Open the Photos app on your Windows 11 laptop.
- Click Import (top-right) > Choose From a connected device.
- Select the photos and click Import.
Pros and Cons of USB Transfer
Pros:
- Fast transfer speed
- No internet needed
Cons:
- Requires a good USB cable
- Sometimes the device isn’t recognized
Method 2 – Transfer Photos Without USB Cable
No cable? No problem. Wireless options are super handy — especially when you’re on the go or forgot your charger at home.
☁️ Method 3 – Transfer Photos via iCloud
iCloud is Apple’s built-in cloud storage system, and it works beautifully across devices.
🔧 Enable iCloud Photos on iPhone
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos
- Turn on iCloud Photos
Access iCloud on Laptop
- Go to iCloud.com
- Sign in with your Apple ID
- Open Photos, select images, and download them to your laptop
Use iCloud for Windows
- Download iCloud for Windows from Apple’s website
- Install, log in, and check Photos
- Photos sync automatically to a local iCloud Photos folder
Method 4 – Transfer Photos via AirDrop (Mac Only)
Using a MacBook instead of a Windows laptop?
- Turn on AirDrop on both devices.
- Open Photos on your iPhone and select images.
- Tap Share > AirDrop > [Your Mac]
- Accept the files on your laptop — and done!
Method 5 – Google Photos
Google Photos is a cross-platform lifesaver.
Upload from iPhone:
- Download the Google Photos app
- Sign in and allow access to your photos
- Enable backup over Wi-Fi
Access on Laptop:
- Go to photos.google.com
- Log in with the same Google account
- View and download your photos
Method 6 – Email or Messaging Apps
Email Yourself the Photos
- Select photos in the Photos app
- Tap Share > Mail
- Email them to yourself, then open and download from your laptop
Use WhatsApp/Telegram
- Send photos to yourself using a saved number or group
- Open WhatsApp Web or Telegram Web on your laptop
- Download the images from there
Method 7 – Use Snapdrop or Third-party Apps
One cool tool? Snapdrop. It’s like AirDrop for Windows and works via browser.
How Snapdrop Works
- Open Snapdrop.net on both your iPhone and laptop
- Devices will discover each other automatically
- Tap your laptop’s name > Select photos > Transfer
Pros of Peer-to-Peer Apps
- No app installations needed
- Fast and private transfers
- Works across all operating systems
Common Problems and Fixes
iPhone Not Detected?
- Try another USB port or cable
- Restart both devices
Photos Not Showing Up?
- Wait a few seconds after connecting
- Use Photos app instead of File Explorer
Wireless Transfer Slow?
- Switch to 5GHz Wi-Fi
- Close background apps
Tips to Keep Your Photos Organized
- Create folders by date or event
- Rename files after transfer
- Use backup tools like OneDrive or external hard drives
What is the easiest way to transfer photos from iPhone to laptop?
Conclusion
Transferring photos from your iPhone to your laptop doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. Whether you prefer using a USB cable, wireless syncing, or cloud storage, there’s a method that suits your needs perfectly.
So go ahead — clean up your iPhone, back up those memories, and make some space for new ones!
FAQs
Q1: How many photos can I transfer at once?
You can transfer thousands at once via USB, but wireless methods may slow down with bulk files.
Q2: Can I delete photos from iPhone after transferring?
Yes! Just make sure they’re backed up safely before deleting.
Q3: What’s the fastest method?
Using a USB cable offers the fastest transfer speed with less hassle.
Q4: Can I use Bluetooth to transfer photos?
No, iPhones do not support Bluetooth file sharing to laptops.
Q5: What to do if the laptop doesn’t detect iPhone?
Check the cable, install iTunes, and make sure your iPhone is unlocked and trusted.
