Transferring videos from your iPhone to your MacBook is one of the best ways to free up storage space keep your files organised and back up memories safely. Whether you have captured family events created content for social media or recorded high-quality 4K footage your MacBook gives you more room and editing options.
There are several ways to move videos from your iPhone to your MacBook and the method you choose depends on how many files you have how fast you want the transfer to be and whether you prefer using cables or wireless options. This guide walks you through the most reliable and user-friendly methods available.
Use the Photos App via USB Cable
The most straightforward method is using the built-in Photos app on your MacBook. Connect your iPhone to the MacBook with a Lightning to USB cable. If prompted on your phone tap Trust This Computer and enter your passcode. The Photos app should open automatically. If it does not open it manually.
Select your iPhone from the left sidebar then choose the videos you want to import. You can either import selected videos or click Import All New Videos to move everything at once. The files will be saved in your Photos library on your MacBook.
This method is fast and reliable especially for large video files or bulk transfers.
Use AirDrop for Quick Wireless Transfers
AirDrop is perfect for transferring a few videos quickly without cables. Make sure both your iPhone and MacBook have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on and that they are within close range.
On your iPhone open the Photos app select the videos you want to send then tap the Share icon and choose AirDrop. Select your MacBook from the list of available devices. You may need to accept the transfer on your Mac. The videos will be saved in the Downloads folder unless you choose to move them elsewhere.
AirDrop is convenient for short videos or spontaneous sharing but it may not be suitable for very large files or batch transfers.
Use iCloud Photos to Sync Automatically
If you use iCloud Photos your videos can sync automatically between your iPhone and MacBook. First make sure iCloud Photos is enabled on your iPhone by going to Settings > Photos > iCloud Photos. Then on your MacBook go to System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud > Photos and turn on iCloud Photos.
Once enabled your videos will sync over Wi-Fi and appear in the Photos app on both devices. You do not need to do anything else once the setup is complete. This is an ideal solution if you want your entire media library accessible across devices.
Keep in mind that iCloud storage may fill up quickly especially if you shoot high-resolution video. Consider upgrading your plan if you run out of space.
Use the Image Capture App
Image Capture is another built-in macOS tool that gives you direct access to your iPhone’s photo and video files. Connect your iPhone to your MacBook with a cable and open Image Capture from the Applications folder.
Select your iPhone from the device list and you will see all your videos and photos. Choose the files you want and select a destination folder then click Import. This method gives you more control over where the files go and works well if you do not want to use the Photos app.
Use Cloud Storage Apps
You can also transfer videos using cloud storage apps like Google Drive Dropbox or OneDrive. Upload the videos from your iPhone using the respective app then download them to your MacBook through the web or desktop version of the service.
This method works well when you are away from your MacBook or need to share videos with other people. However upload and download speeds depend on your internet connection and it may take longer for large video files.
Final Thoughts
There are several effective ways to transfer videos from your iPhone to your MacBook depending on your needs. For quick one-off transfers use AirDrop. For full library syncs go with iCloud Photos. If you want more control or are moving lots of files the Photos app or Image Capture is ideal. No matter which method you choose transferring videos is a smooth process that helps you keep your media safe and your iPhone storage under control.