Windows 10 User migration from one PC to another, preserving data and preferences

[DominikHoffmann]

I am wondering, what tool I should use, if I replace one PC with a newer one, to transfer the entire user experience from older system to the newer one. This should include all the app preferences and OS environment customizations to the extent possible. Is there a utility for that? I should note that the user ID belongs to a third party. In other words, I have no control over how it is configured.

I come from the macOS world, where Migration Assistant has done that job spectacularly well for many years now. That's my benchmark. I am hoping for something similar in the Windows world.

 

[Neemobeer]

For the more technical approach there is USMT from Microsoft. User State Migration Tool (USMT) Overview (Windows 10) - Windows Deployment

For the 'I want to click a button' approach there are paid solutions such as zinstall which will even do programs Transfer to New Computer, to Windows 11, to Windows 10, to Cloud, to Azure - programs, profiles and files - Zinstall

 

[DominikHoffmann]

For the more technical approach there is USMT from Microsoft. User State Migration Tool (USMT) Overview (Windows 10) - Windows Deployment

For the 'I want to click a button' approach there are paid solutions such as zinstall which will even do programs Transfer to New Computer, to Windows 11, to Windows 10, to Cloud, to Azure - programs, profiles and files - Zinstall

Thanks very much! I will study the USMT!

 

[bboisen]

Definitely use USMT but do get free updated XML files from EhlerTech, as they deliver a much better result than the original XML files coming together with USMT.

Also, if you're not info fiddling in a Windows command line, you can make a shortcut by using the USMT GUI from EhlerTech.
USMTGUI is really easy to use but not free.