Complete Guide: How to Transfer Files from PC to iPad without/with iTunes?

Transferring files from a PC to an iPad is a common task, and there are several situations where you might need to do this:

• Your iPad was accidentally reset, but you have a backup on your PC.
• You've just bought a new iPad and want to transfer files from your computer.
• You need to copy certain data from your PC to your iPad.

Although iOS is a relatively closed system, transferring files from a PC to an iPad is actually quite straightforward. In this article, we'll share 7 simple and easy methods to help you transfer files without or with iTunes. You can review all the methods and choose the one that works best for your needs. These methods are compatible with all iPad models, including iPad 11, 10, 9, 8, Pro, Air, and Mini.

Part 1: Transfer Files from PC to iPad without iTunes Using Assistant for iOS

The best way to transfer files from a PC to an iPad is by using MobiKin Assistant for iOS. This professional tool simplifies iOS file transfer and management, allowing you to easily move files like contacts, bookmarks, books, notes, and calendars from your PC or Mac to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod with just a few clicks. It also lets you sync various files from your iDevice to your PC when needed. In addition to file transfer, Assistant for iOS offers robust file management capabilities, giving you full control over your iOS data.

Main Highlights of MobiKin Assistant for iOS:

• Easily transfer files like photos, videos, contacts, and more between iOS devices and your computer.
• Back up your iPhone/iPad data and restore it with a few clicks.
• Manage your iOS files by adding, deleting, or editing documents and media.
• Preview and select data before transferring.
• Be compatible with overall iPad models and PadOS versions, including the latest iPad 11 and PadOS 26.

Guide to transfer files to iPad from PC using Assistant for iOS:

Step 1. Run the program on your computer and continue connect your iPad to PC via USB cable.

Step 2. Go with the prompts on the screen to make your iPad recognized and when the device is successfully recognized, you will see the following interface:

Step 3. Click on the category to which you want to import files in the left panel, such as "Contacts".

Step 4. Go on to tap the "Import" option and choose the wanted files from your PC.

Step 5. Hit "Open" and the program will start importing files from PC to iPad.

Video Guide:

You can also click to learn:

• How to Transfer Photos from Mac to iPhone? (6 Easy Ways Included)

Part 2: How to Transfer PC Files to iPad via iTunes

iTunes offers two main ways to transfer files from your PC to your iPad: syncing media such as photos, videos, and music, or transferring files through apps that support iTunes file sharing. However, be aware that syncing with iTunes can overwrite existing content on your iPad, so it's important to double-check your settings. Additionally, make sure the app you're using supports file sharing before attempting to transfer files. (For Mac users, iTunes is also a reliable method to transfer files to iPad.)

Option 1: Use iTunes Syncing

• Connect your iPad to your Windows PC and open iTunes. (Ensure that you have the latest version of iTunes installed.)
• Unlock your iPad and trust the computer when prompted.
• Click on the iPad icon in iTunes, then select the type of content you wish to sync, such as photos, videos, music, or other files.
• Check the box next to "Sync [category]" and choose the specific items you want to transfer.
• Click "Apply" to begin the transfer. Once completed, open the relevant app on your iPad to access the transferred files. (iPhone Not Syncing with iTunes?)

Option 2: Use iTunes File Sharing

• Open iTunes and find the app you want to transfer files to in the "File Sharing" section.
• Drag and drop the desired files into the app's Documents list, or click "Add" to browse your PC for the files you want to transfer.
• After selecting the files, click "Add" to send them to your iPad. You can then access them within the app on your device.

Part 3: How to Transfer Files to iPad from PC with File Explorer

If you want to transfer media files like videos and photos from your PC to your iPad without using iTunes, Windows File Explorer provides an easy solution. However, keep in mind that this method is limited to photos and videos, so it won't work for other types of content.

• Connect your iPad to your PC using a USB cable.
• Unlock your iPad and trust the computer. If prompted, enter your iPad's password to allow the connection.
• Open "This PC" on your computer, find your iPad listed under devices, then navigate to "Internal Storage" > "APPLE100" > "DCIM."
• Copy the photos and videos you want to transfer into the "DCIM" folder.
• Open the Photos app on your iPad to view the transferred files.

Part 4: How to Transfer Files from Computer to iPad Using iCloud

iCloud makes it easy to sync your files across all devices that share the same Apple ID. By enabling iCloud on both your PC and iPad, you can upload files from your PC and access them on your iPad without needing any cables. This method works well for photos and videos, making it perfect for transferring media between your Mac or PC and iPad. (iCloud Storage Full?)

Here's what you need to ensure before you start:

• Both devices must be signed in with the same Apple ID.
• You should have enough available storage in iCloud to upload the files you want to transfer.

Step 1: On your iPad, go to the "Settings" app, tap your name at the top, then select "iCloud". Next, tap "Photos" and turn on "iCloud Photos".

Step 2: On your PC, upload the photos you want to transfer to iCloud.

• If you have iCloud for Windows, open the app, check the box for "Photos", and enable "iCloud Photo Library" and "Upload new photos and videos from my PC". Then, move the photos you want to transfer into the "Uploads" folder (found under "This PC" > "iCloud Photos" > "Uploads").



• If you don't have iCloud for Windows, you can simply go to iCloud.com, sign in with your Apple ID, and select "Photos". From there, upload the files directly from your PC.

Step 3: On your iPad, open the "Photos" app, and you'll find the newly uploaded images ready to view or use.

Part 5: How to Copy Files from PC to iPad Using iCloud Drive

iCloud Drive is a cloud-based service that lets you easily share files between your PC and iPad over Wi-Fi. Similar to iCloud Photos, iCloud Drive allows you to store and access documents like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDFs, and more, as long as you're signed in with the same Apple ID on both devices and have enough storage space available.

Step 1: On your iPad, go to "Settings" > [Your Name] > "iCloud", then toggle on "iCloud Drive".

Step 2: On your PC, upload the files you want to transfer to iCloud:

• If you have iCloud for Windows installed, open the iCloud settings and enable "iCloud Drive". Then, go to "This PC" > "iCloud Drive", and move the files you want to transfer into this folder.
• If you haven't installed iCloud for Windows, go to the iCloud website, sign in, and select "iCloud Drive" to upload your files directly from your PC.

Step 3: Once the files are synced, open the "Files" app on your iPad. Tap "Browse" > "iCloud Drive" to view your files. You can either access them directly from iCloud or download them to your iPad by tapping the "Download" icon.

You are also recommended to read:

• [7 Solutions] How to Fix iCloud Drive Waiting to Upload

Part 6: How to Send Files from PC to iPad via Google Drive

In addition to iCloud Drive, there are other cloud services that can help you sync files between your Windows PC and iPad. Google Drive is one of the most popular options, allowing you to upload and sync a variety of file types, such as photos, videos, music, documents, and more. You get 15 GB of free storage with your Google account, making it a convenient and accessible choice. Here's how to sync files from your PC to your iPad using Google Drive:

• On your PC, open your browser and go to drive.google.com.
• Click the "New" button and select either "File upload" or "Folder upload" to upload your desired files or folders.



• Once the upload is complete, your files will be available in your Google Drive account immediately.
• On your iPad, go to the App Store, search for Google Drive, and install the app.
• Open Google Drive and sign in with your Google account. You'll now have access to all the files you uploaded from your PC.

Part 7: Transfer Files from PC to iPad Wirelessly via Email

For the users who just want to save a small number of files from PC to iPad, email is a way of transfer as well. You can directly copy the files to email or add attachments and then send them to yourself. Once done, you can then enter the email account on your iPad and then copy or download the sent files to the device. This is very simple but only feasible when the file size is very small. (If needed, you can also click to learn how to email iPhone photos/videos.)

• Copy or zip up the files that you want to transfer on your computer.
• Sign in to your email account and click on "Compose".
• Paste the copied contents to the blank text box or click on the paperclip-shaped icon to attach files.
• Enter the email address of the receiver and hit the "Send" button to email the files from computer to iPad.

FAQs on iPad Files Transfer

Q1: Will transferring files delete existing content on my iPad?

Transferring files won't erase your iPad's current content unless you use iTunes' sync feature, which replaces existing data. Other methods simply add new files without affecting what's already on your device.

Q2: Is it possible to transfer files without installing any software?

Yes, you can use File Explorer via USB to transfer files without needing extra software. However, this method has limited compatibility with file types compared to specialized tools.

Q3: Can I transfer specific file types, such as PDFs or documents?

Absolutely! MobiKin Assistant for iOS supports all file types, including PDFs and documents. File Explorer is better for media files, while cloud services can handle a wide range of document formats.

Q4: How can I wirelessly transfer files from Windows to iPad?

To wirelessly transfer files, you can use cloud services like iCloud Drive or Google Drive. Alternatively, iTunes can also help, depending on your setup. Check the relevant sections above for step-by-step details.

Q5: Can I AirDrop files from my computer to iPad?

If you're using a Mac, yes, AirDrop works for transferring files to your iPad. However, on Windows, AirDrop isn't available, so you won't be able to transfer files this way.

Write in the End

In conclusion, there are several efficient ways to transfer files from a PC to an iPad, each suited to different needs. Wired methods like MobiKin Assistant for iOS, File Explorer, and iTunes are ideal for fast, reliable transfers, particularly when dealing with large files. On the other hand, wireless options such as iCloud, iCloud Drive, Google Drive, and Email offer the convenience of transferring files without needing cables, making them perfect for smaller files or when you need remote access. By selecting the best method for your needs, you can ensure smooth file management and easy access to your photos, videos, documents, and more on your iPad.

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