Best Free iPhone to PC Transfer Software in 2025 – Quick & Reliable Solutions

Transferring files from iPhone to PC can be a frustrating task, especially if you're stuck with iTunes. It’s bulky, slow, and often restricts access to your data. That’s why in 2025, more users are ditching iTunes for faster, free software that makes iPhone to PC transfers quick and hassle-free.

Whether you want to move photos, videos, music, or documents, this guide covers the best free iPhone to PC transfer software for every file type. You’ll learn which tools are ideal, how to use them, and what mistakes to avoid.

Part 1: Why Use iPhone to PC Transfer Software Instead of Apps

You might be wondering: why not just use an app for iPhone to PC transfer?

Apps typically rely on Wi-Fi, and while that sounds convenient, it often results in unstable transfers, reduced speed, and limits on what files you can access. Transferring large videos or music collections can stall midway—or worse, fail.

Here’s where free software comes in.

When you use desktop-based software, especially those connected via USB, your transfers are faster, more stable, and you get full access to your iPhone’s data—something apps can't always provide.

Software = Stable, USB-Based Transfers

Connecting via USB gives you the most secure and direct access to your iPhone’s storage. Unlike cloud-based or wireless apps, USB doesn’t rely on internet speed, router performance, or battery drain.

Apps = Often Wi-Fi-Dependent and Limited

Apps like AirDrop or cloud services are useful for quick transfers, but they don't work well when moving large files, full albums, or multiple formats. They’re also prone to disconnection and can’t access certain types of iOS data, such as app files or system messages.

If you care about speed, security, and complete file access—especially when moving large batches of files—using free iPhone to PC transfer software is your best bet.

Next up, let’s dive into the best software options based on file type.

Part 2: Best Free Software by File Type

Different file types require different solutions. Some tools excel at photos, while others handle music or offer all-in-one capabilities. Here’s a closer look at the best free iPhone to PC transfer software by use case.

Best All-in-One Tool: MobileTrans by Wondershare

Want to transfer more than just one file type? MobileTrans handles photos, videos, contacts, music, messages, and more—all in one place. Designed for simplicity and speed, it connects via USB and works without iTunes.

This is crazy: Most free tools give you one file type, maybe two. MobileTrans lets you move everything without complicated steps or bloated software.

MobileTrans

Best iPhone to PC transfer software

Available on:

Try It Free Try It Free

Best iPhone to PC transfer software

Try It Free Try It Free

How to Use MobileTrans for File Transfers:

Step 1: Download and launch MobileTrans on your PC.

Step 2: Connect your phone to the computer first. And after starting MobileTrans, select Phone Transfer > Phone to PC.

Step 3: Choose data types from the left-hand sidebar. Next, select whatever files you wish to export to your PC.

Step 4: Maintain a phone connection, and the export will finish soon. Additionally, these files may be imported to your phone as needed.

Want to know the best part? MobileTrans works entirely offline—no Wi-Fi, cloud storage, or internet connection required.

MobileTrans

Transfer files from iPhone to PC

Available on:

Try It Free Try It Free

Transfer files from iPhone to PC

Try It Free Try It Free

Best for Photo Transfer: CopyTrans Photo (Free Version)

If you mainly transfer images from your iPhone to your PC, CopyTrans Photo is a solid pick. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it user-friendly, even for beginners. You can browse and export entire albums or individual images.

Best for Music Transfer: WinX MediaTrans (Free Trial)

Music lovers, take note. WinX MediaTrans allows you to transfer songs and playlists without using iTunes. You retain metadata, including album art, and the transfer speed is notably fast.

Part 3: Quick Steps to Transfer Files from iPhone to PC

Now that you’ve chosen your software, here’s a streamlined process to follow when transferring files:

1. Install your selected iPhone-to-PC transfer software on your computer. Connect your iPhone to your PC using a certified USB Lightning cable.
2. On your iPhone, unlock the screen and tap "Trust This Computer" when prompted.
3. Launch the transfer software and wait for it to detect your iPhone.
4. Select the file category you want to transfer (Photos, Videos, Music, Contacts, etc).
5. Browse or preview the files, then click “Export,” “Save,” or “Transfer,” depending on your tool.
6. Choose a destination folder on your PC and confirm the action. Files will begin transferring instantly.

Pro Tip: For a smoother experience, disable iCloud sync temporarily so your iPhone storage is fully visible to the transfer tool. This is particularly important when exporting photos and messages.

Part 4: Tips for Smooth Transfer

Want to know the best part about using dedicated iPhone-to-PC transfer software? You can optimize the entire process by applying a few smart tricks that make file transfers faster, safer, and more reliable. Here are the most effective tips you should follow every time you move files from your iPhone to your PC.

Tip 1: Use Certified USB Cables

Not all lightning cables are created equal. Using unofficial or low-quality cables can result in intermittent connections or failed transfers. Always opt for the original Apple cable or MFi-certified alternatives. They ensure stable communication between your iPhone and PC.

Tip 2: Keep Your iPhone Unlocked

iPhones running iOS 11 or later require you to unlock the screen and tap “Trust This Computer” when connecting to a new PC. Failing to do so can block access to your files or cause your software to hang. Always unlock your device before launching the software.

Tip 3: Disable iCloud Sync (Temporarily)

If you’re transferring photos, make sure iCloud Photo Library is disabled. When it’s enabled, many photos are stored in the cloud rather than your local storage, and transfer software may not access them. Here’s how:

1. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos.
2. Toggle off “iCloud Photos” temporarily.
3. Restart your transfer software for full local access.

Tip 4: Close iTunes Before Launching Your Tool

iTunes can interfere with third-party transfer software by locking file access. If it launches automatically, exit it before connecting your iPhone. This gives your transfer tool full control without software conflicts.

Tip 5: Update Software and iOS Regularly

Running the latest version of your transfer tool ensures maximum compatibility. Likewise, outdated iOS versions may cause communication problems. Before transferring:

• Check for PC software updates
• Make sure your iPhone’s iOS is current

Tip 6: Don’t Overload the Transfer Queue

Trying to move thousands of files in one go can strain both your iPhone and PC memory, leading to freezes or partial transfers. Instead, transfer files in manageable batches. If you’re moving media, try 100–200 photos or 1–2GB of video at a time.

Tip 7: Organize Files Before Transfer

Sorting files into albums or folders on your iPhone makes it easier to locate and move them. Many transfer tools reflect your phone’s internal organization, so categorizing ahead saves time and prevents mistakes.

Tip 8: Clean Junk Files First

Some tools struggle to access your files if your device is cluttered with cache, system logs, or temporary app data. Before a big transfer, consider using a cleanup app or restarting your phone to refresh memory and system performance.

Tip 9: Check Your Destination Folder Permissions

Sometimes, a transfer fails not because of your phone, but because your chosen PC folder doesn’t have write permissions. Always select a destination where you have full access, such as Downloads or Desktop.

Tip 10: Backup Before Transfer

Even with reliable software, it’s good practice to back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes before initiating large transfers. If anything goes wrong, you won’t lose important data.

Tip 11: Use Preview Mode If Available

Tools like Dr.Fone or MobileTrans offer preview modes so you can select specific files instead of transferring everything. This saves time and avoids cluttering your PC with unwanted files.

Tip 12: Keep Power Connected

Large file transfers can drain your iPhone battery. Connect your iPhone to a power source if you’re planning to move gigabytes of data. Low battery interruptions can corrupt file transfers.

Tip 13: Use File Naming Consistency

Before transferring, rename files with consistent and identifiable names (especially videos and documents). This helps you sort and use them quickly after transfer.

You can turn a messy, slow transfer into a fast and smooth experience just by applying these tips. While the software does most of the work, optimizing your setup ensures the process runs without hiccups.

In the next section, we’ll talk about what not to do when transferring files from iPhone to PC—mistakes that can slow you down or put your data at risk.

Part 5: What to Avoid When Transferring iPhone Files to PC

Now that you know how to make transfers smooth, it’s equally important to understand what not to do. These common mistakes can waste time, corrupt files, or interrupt your transfer process altogether.

Mistake 1: Relying Only on Wi-Fi-Based Apps

Many users opt for Wi-Fi-only apps, thinking it will be more convenient. But here's the catch: Wi-Fi transfers often drop connections, fail mid-way, or reduce speed dramatically when moving large files.

Avoid this by choosing a reliable USB-based tool like MobileTrans, which ensures stable and consistent file movement.

Mistake 2: Not Trusting the Computer

When you connect your iPhone to a new PC, you’ll see a prompt to “Trust This Computer.” Failing to confirm this will block data access.

If you miss it, unplug and reconnect your device. Make sure the screen is unlocked and tap Trust.

Mistake 3: Saving Files in Protected System Folders

Trying to export files to restricted PC locations (like Program Files or System folders) can lead to failed saves or permission errors. Stick to folders like Desktop, Downloads, or Documents.

This ensures full read/write access and avoids system conflicts.

Mistake 4: Failing to Check File Format Support

Some free software to transfer files from iPhone to PC only supports standard file types like JPG, MP4, or MP3. If you're moving RAW images, third-party app files, or formats like MOV or HEIC, verify that your tool supports them.

MobileTrans and CopyTrans, for example, support a wide range of formats.

Mistake 5: Trusting Unknown or Shady Tools

If a tool doesn’t come from a reputable developer or asks for strange permissions, skip it. Free doesn’t always mean safe.

Always download iPhone to Windows file transfer software from official websites or trusted platforms. Never give tools access to sensitive settings like VPNs or your Apple ID.

Want to know the best part? By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll streamline every transfer, protect your files, and save time.

Conclusion

The best way to transfer files from an iPhone to a PC is by using free, reliable desktop software that gives you full control.

Tools like MobileTrans offer an easy path to move photos, music, and documents without breaking a sweat. Combine them with smart practices—like using original USB cables, previewing before transfer, and avoiding Wi-Fi tools—and you’ll never run into trouble.

Wondershare Repairit helps restore damaged video, audio, and documents with minimal effort.