Step-by-Step Guide: iPad File Transfer to USB and Vice Versa

Why Need to Transfer iPad Files to USB Drive?

iPad, an alternative to a laptop or desktop PC, is efficient at fulfilling most basic computing tasks. But why does iPad file transfer USB? Some common reasons for “iPad transfer files to USB drive” are as follows:

Increasing iPad Storage Capacity: By transferring iPad files to a USB drive, you can free up valuable space on your iPad so it can run more efficiently and store new data.
Device Upgrade or Transition: When upgrading to a new iPad or transitioning to another device, you’d better transfer files from iPad to an external hard drive or  USB drive, ensuring a seamless transition without the risk of data loss.
Preserving and Archiving Data: Transferring files to a USB drive enables long-term storage of important data. USB drives provide a stable storage medium that can be safely stored for future reference.
Offline Access: By storing files on a USB drive, you can access them offline. This makes it easy to access important files regardless of your location or network availability.

How to Transfer Files from iPad to USB Drive

You can transfer files from your iPad to your USB drive in two convenient ways, whether you prefer a direct connection or the help of user-friendly software. Read on to learn how easy it is to transfer files from your iPad to a USB drive.

Method 1: iPad File Transfer to USB via the Files App

With the arrival of iPadOS 13 and the introduction of the File app, iPad users can now easily transfer files between their device and the USB drive. This method provides a user-friendly and efficient way to transfer files, giving iPad users greater control over their data management. The steps about how “iPad transfer files to USB drive” are listed below:

Step 1: Connect your USB drive to your iPad using a compatible USB cable.

• For an iPad Pro 2018 or a newer model with a USB-C flash drive: simply connect them directly.
• For other iPad models: use a Lightning to USB adapter to establish the connection between your iPad and the USB drive.

Step 2: Open the Photos app on your iPad > Choose the specific photos and videos you wish to transfer to the USB drive. Once you’ve made your selection, tap the Share icon > choose Save to Files from the options presented.

★Tip:

 Here take the Photos app as an example. If you need to transfer other files (such as music, PDFs, and more), you can go to corresponding apps to share your files.

Step 3: Locate and choose a destination folder on the USB drive where you want to save the files > Tap Save to complete the transfer process.

Method 2: Easiest Way to Transfer Files from iPad to USB Drive

If you don’t have an iPadOS 13 or later version but need to transfer files to a USB drive, don’t worry! In this case, you can use a free and professional backup and transfer tool called FoneTool. With its user-friendly interface, you can transfer your iPad files (including photos, videos, music, message, and more).

Highlights of Using FoneTool to Transfer iPad Files to USB Drive:
Seamless File Transfer: FoneTool provides a seamless and efficient way to transfer files from your iPad to your USB drive without iTunes.
Backup and Restore: FoneTool not only allows you to transfer files but also offers backup and restore features to protect your valuable data and restore it when needed.
No Data Loss: During the transfer process, FoneTool ensures the integrity and safety of your data, preventing any loss or damage to your files.

Now download and install FoneTool on your PC and follow the steps below to learn how to use FoneTool for “iPad file transfer USB” in a few clicks.

Step 1: Connect your iPad and USB drive to your PC > Launch FoneTool to its main interface > Click Phone Transfer in the left pane > Choose iPhone to PC > Click Start Transfer.

Step 2: Click the Plus icon to choose files you want to transfer to USB drive > Click OK to go back to the iPhone to PC page.

Step 3: Click Transfer Settings to choose your USB drive as destination > Click the Start Transfer button to transfer videos from iPad to USB drive.

How to Transfer Files from USB Drive to iPad Easily

Sometimes, you may need to transfer files from your USB drive to your iPad for a smoother workflow. Whether you’re accessing work-related documents or multimedia files, having easy access to them on your iPad increases productivity and convenience.

FoneTool, an iPhone management tool, can help you to transfer your files from the USB drive to your iPad easily and quickly. Here is a full guide on how to do that:

Step 1: Plug in your iPad and the USB drive on your PC > Launch FoneTool to its main interface.

Step 2: Click Phone Transfer > Choose the PC to iPhone option > Click Start Transfer.

Step 3: Click the “+” icon > Click Open to choose files on the USB drive > Confirm the files you want to transfer > Click OK > Click Start Transfer to start.

FAQs on “iPad File Transfer USB”

Here are 3 frequently asked questions about how "iPad Pro transfer files to USB". Let’s check it!

1. Can I Directly Connect a USB Drive to My iPad for File Transfer?

Yes! As long as your iPad is running on iPadOS 13 and higher, the built-in Files app can help you connect the USB device directly to your iPad and transfer the files to your iPad.

2. Which App Can I Use to Transfer Files from My iPad to a USB Drive?

There are many third-party file management apps online, it’s highly recommended to use a safe and professional transfer tool like FoneTool. With FoneTool, you can easily transfer your iPad files (such as photos, videos, music, and more) to a USB drive.

3. Can I Transfer Files from a USB Drive to My iPad?

With the help of FoneTool, you can easily transfer iPad files to and from a USB drive. In addition, you can use FoneTool to transfer videos from PC to iPad or back up and transfer any other files you want.

The Bottom Line

That’s all about how “iPad file transfer USB”. There are two ways to transfer files from iPad to a USB drive. The easiest way to back up and transfer your iPad files is to use FoneTool.

With the help of FoneTool, you cannot only share files between your iPad and USB devices but also create a full iPad backup on your USB drive. Download and use it right away!