How to Transfer Files from Android to PC using a USB cable

Introduction

Since mobile phone storage is getting larger by the year, users are storing gigabytes of important and precious data on these devices. However, it is evident that these mobile phones are fragile, and therefore the data is at risk.

This is the main reason many users seek various options to backup their Android device data. This article explores two methods to backup or transfer files from your Android device to your computer using a USB cable.

Here are the 2 USB file transfer methods reviewed:

Droid Transfer
Windows File Explorer

If ease of use is your priority, check out our guide on how to share files between PC and Android using Wi-Fi.

Transfer files from Android to PC: Droid Transfer

For those seeking an intuitive Android file manager solution, Droid Transfer is the method for you.

You can use Droid Transfer for Windows PC, alongside the Transfer Companion app available for free on the Google Play Store, to copy files from your Android device to your computer, as well as add and delete files and folders on your Android device from your PC.

As well as the file manager, Droid Transfer allows you to easily use your PC to access and manage your Android device Photos, Messages, Contacts and more. You can even sync music between Android and your PC!

Here's how to transfer files from Android to PC using USB:

Download Droid Transfer on your PC and run it.
Get the Transfer Companion App on your Android phone.
Connect to Droid Transfer via USB.
Use the Files section in Droid Transfer to browse and select files you'd like to copy.
Click "Copy to PC"!

Note: Ensure that you safely eject your device from your computer when you're finished copying via USB.

Summary (Droid Transfer):

✔ USB transfer
✔ Wi-Fi transfer
✔ User-friendly interface
✔ Music
✔ Sync with iTunes
✔ Messages
✔ Photos
✔ Calendars
✔ Contacts
✔ Call Logs
✔ Files

Droid Transfer
for Windows

DOWNLOAD Droid Transfer

Transfer Companion
for Android

Transfer files from Android to PC: Windows File Explorer

If you're looking for a simple way to transfer certain bits of data from your Android to your PC, you can do so from your Windows File Explorer.

You can't access and copy all data types like you can using an app like Droid Transfer, but for photos, videos and music, this may be just enough for what you need.

Here's how to transfer files from Android to PC using File Explorer...

Connect your Android device to your PC using your USB cable.
Swipe down from the top of the screen on your Android device and tap 'Charging this device via USB'. Under 'Use USB for' select 'File Transfer'.
Now you can open Windows File Explorer on your computer.
Click your phone from the list on the left.
Browse and select files to transfer.
Right-click > Copy. Or click "Copy To..." in the toolbar.