Sure, you can plug your Android into your PC using a cable and move files the old-fashioned way, but that method is time-consuming and hard to navigate. Try wireless file transfers instead. Transferring files between PC and Android systems is essential if you are having trouble managing all your documents, photos, and music. While Apple users can use AirDrop to move files wirelessly between iOS and macOS, Android users need to think outside the box.
Just because Android file transfers require a third-party app doesn't mean they're impossible. Since it's easy to move your files without depending on a specific operating system destination, you can transfer documents to Windows and Mac, unlike AirDrop.
If you are looking for the best way to wirelessly move your computer files to Android, here are the best ways to do it.
Transfer files from your PC to Android using a Wi-Fi (WLAN) network
The best way to transfer files between your PC and Android is to send them over a shared wireless network. You can use many apps for this, such as WiFi File Transfer on Android and Air Transfer on iOS. Some file browsers also incorporate Wi-Fi file transfers. Just open the app, browse, copy and paste to folders on the other device. For file browsers, you usually go to the network section, the WLAN section or something similar. It searches for available devices and you select the device you need.
Transfer files using a wireless media player
Increasingly practical devices for media management include portable Network Attached Storage (NAS) drives and wireless media players. These devices are loaded with media via an SD card or USB drive, which can then be accessed by connecting to the device's WiFi hotspot.
The main characteristics of NAS drives or wireless media players are the possibility for several users to access them at once and the fact that they are used independently of an Internet connection. Most of them can also be used as a power bank to keep your phone or tablet running for longer periods of time.
Transfer files between Android and PC via Bluetooth
In the early days of smartphones, Bluetooth was the perfect way to exchange small amounts of data. Although not ideal for larger downloads, it is still a convenient way to transfer files. Since most current-generation laptops are Bluetooth-enabled, setup is also a breeze.
- Make sure your PC's Bluetooth is turned on. If it is active, you will see the icon in the System tray. The icon will also appear in the Action center whether Bluetooth is on or off.
- Once Bluetooth is enabled, right-click the icon in the System tray and select Add a bluetooth device.
- In the Bluetooth Settings window, select Add Bluetooth or other device.
- In the Add device context menu, select Bluetooth to find your Android device. On Android, you may need to open your Bluetooth settings and click the refresh icon to re-enable the search and search feature, or Windows won't find out.
- Click on the device when it appears. You may also need to select the PC name on the Android device while Windows attempts to connect.
- Your PC will then show you a code to make sure you're connecting to the correct device, which should also appear on your smartphone or tablet screen. Check that the codes match, then select Yes.
- Once you click Next, the two devices should pair, ready to exchange files the same way you would between two mobile devices.
Transfer files between Android and PC using Cloud Storage
Google Drive and Dropbox are still among the best options for moving data wirelessly. Both options are platform independent and accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy to share multiple files or folders with minimal hassle.
Since Google Drive comes pre-installed on Android, we recommend it as your first stop. That said, if you prefer Dropbox, the two apps work almost identically. The only downside is the limited storage space on Dropbox's free tier, but if you're syncing a small number of files, it shouldn't cause you much trouble.
Transfer Files Between Android and PC Wirelessly Using Email
Finally, email is often the go-to solution for quickly sharing photos or documents with friends and colleagues, and for good reason. It might be a bit old, but emailing yourself the attachments you want is still a great way to exchange files between your PC and Android device.
Depending on the courier you use, there may be a limit to the amount you can send. Sending an email with documents attached should work, but don't expect to spend hours sending video footage without issue.
Network file transfers
There are many ways to transfer files wirelessly between your PC and Android device. For small files, the easiest method is to use email, Bluetooth, or a portable NAS device. When transferring larger files, you'll want to use a NAS, portable or other device.
How to transfer files from PC to Android? Feel free to share your suggestions and solutions in the comments below.
