Best way to connect Android to Mac [2025]

Android file transfer
How to connect Android to Mac

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Updated on: February 28, 2025

Time to read: 3 minutes

Sometimes you need to transfer photos from your smartphone to your computer, whether it’s to move vacation pictures, free up space, or back up your media files. But what if you’re using an Android phone and a MacBook? Even though these systems aren’t natively compatible, there are simple ways to do it. Keep reading to discover both wireless and wired methods for connecting your Android phone to your Mac.

Table of Contents:

The easiest way to connect Android phone to Mac is by using a USB cable – a classic, reliable method. However, you’ll also need a third-party app like MacDroid to establish the connection. With MacDroid, you can easily access Android phone on Mac and transfer photos, videos, music, and folders with minimal effort. You can even edit Android files directly on your Mac. The app supports MTP, ADB, and Wi-Fi modes, so you can choose the option that best fits your needs.

MacDroid is compatible with almost any Android and MTP device.

Let’s look at how to connect Android to Mac via MTP mode:

1. Download and install MacDroid.

2. Connect your devices with cable.

We'd recommend to use USB-cable from your phone's manufacturer.

3. Enable “File Transfer” mode on your Android.

4. Open MacDroid and select “Connect via MTP”. Your Android will appear in the “Device list”.

5. Click the “Mount” button to connect.

6. Once connected, you can access your Android’s content in the Finder app and start transferring files, photos, videos, etc.

Note: Since May 2024, Android File Transfer for Mac is no longer available for download from the official website.

How to Transfer Files from Android to Mac for Free

In the past, the only way to connect devices was via a USB cable, and it remains widely used today. However, with advancements in technology, new wireless methods have emerged. As mentioned earlier, in addition to USB, MacDroid now offers a Wi-Fi mode, allowing you to connect Android to MacBook wirelessly. And here’s how to get started:

1. Launch MacDroid and click “Connect via Wi-Fi”.

2. Enable “Developer options” and “USB debugging” on your Android.

3. Tap “Pair device with QR code” and scan the QR code displayed on your MacBook screen to connect.

Pair device with QR code

Tip: For Android 11 and higher, you can also connect using a pairing code or manual pairing. If your Android is running version 10 or earlier, the connection steps differ. Refer to our guide for detailed instructions.

If you’re wondering “How to connect my Android to my Mac for file transfers” without installing any software, you can use cloud storage services like Google Drive. Simply upload your files from your Android device to the cloud, and then access them on your laptop via a web browser or desktop app. While this method works, it can be time-consuming and requires a stable internet connection.

Upload your files from your Android device to the cloud