Recommended Free Tools
You can connect a Samsung Galaxy to a MacBook in three different ways, depending on what you need: use Quick Share for a supported wireless file transfer, Samsung Smart Switch for a USB backup or restore, or cloud storage to access selected files on both devices. These methods serve different purposes; a USB connection does not, by itself, guarantee that your phone’s files will appear in Finder.
Choose the connection method for your task
| Your goal | Use | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Send a photo, video, or document | Quick Share, if supported on your devices and in your region | Transfers selected files wirelessly between a Galaxy device and a supported Apple device. Samsung’s Canada guide lists MacBook models from 2020 onward. |
| Back up a Galaxy to your Mac or restore a backup | Samsung Smart Switch for Mac | Creates or restores a Smart Switch backup over a USB cable that supports data transfer. It is not a general-purpose Finder file browser. Samsung’s Mac backup guide. |
| Keep selected files available on both devices | Cloud storage | Uploads chosen files so they can be accessed from either device. Samsung lists Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox as examples; this is not the same as a local Smart Switch backup. Samsung’s file-transfer guidance. |
Send files wirelessly with Quick Share
Samsung describes Quick Share as using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to share photos, videos, and documents. Its Canada support guide lists the following requirements for sharing with Apple devices:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Quick Share app version 13.8.51.27 or later on the Galaxy.
- Google Play services version 26.11.xx or later on the Galaxy.
- A supported Apple device: iPhone 8 or later, iPad (5th generation or later), or MacBook (2020 or later).
These are the requirements stated in Samsung Canada’s Quick Share guide, updated April 24, 2026. Availability and timing can vary by market, so check support for your Galaxy model and country rather than treating the listed compatibility as universal.
Send a file
- On the Galaxy, open Quick Share and select the photo, video, or document you want to send.
- Choose the sharing option for nearby devices and look for the MacBook in the available-device list.
- Select the MacBook and accept the transfer on it if prompted. Keep the devices nearby while the transfer completes.
The exact labels and prompts can vary with device software. Samsung notes that Wi-Fi may turn off automatically during a connection to an Apple device. Discovery may not work while Mobile Hotspot or certain Wi-Fi Direct or Wi-Fi Aware services are in use. If the MacBook does not appear, connect the devices to a network, turn off those features if active, and restart both devices before trying again.
#1 Best Overall
- Durable Design: Reinforced nylon exterior and a robust core ensure this cable withstands up to 5,000 bends, outlasting other brands
- Fast Charging: Supports Power Delivery for up to 60W high-speed charging when paired with a USB-C charger
- Versatile Compatibility: Works with virtually all USB-C devices, including phones, tablets, and laptops
- High-Speed Data Transfer: Transfer files quickly with 480Mbps data transfer speeds
- Included Accessories: Comes with a hook-and-loop cable tie for easy organization and a welcome guide for hassle-free setup
Back up or restore with Smart Switch for Mac
Smart Switch is the option for creating a computer backup of Galaxy data or restoring a Smart Switch backup. Samsung’s UK instructions, updated June 19, 2026, require a USB cable that supports data transfer; a cable that only charges the phone will not do the job. Check the ports on your particular Galaxy and MacBook and use a suitable adapter if their connectors differ.
Create a Mac backup
- Install and open Smart Switch on the Mac. Use Samsung’s current download information for compatibility requirements; older minimum Mac specifications in support material should not be treated as a current compatibility guarantee.
- Connect the Galaxy to the Mac with a data-capable USB cable.
- Approve any access prompt on the phone.
- In Smart Switch on the Mac, select Backup and follow the on-screen instructions.
Samsung says the default backup location is /Users/[username]/Documents/Samsung/SmartSwitch/backup, unless you choose another location. Replace [username] with your Mac account name when locating that folder.
Rank #2
- CONFIRM BEFORE BUYING — USB-C to USB-C ONLY: This iPhone 18 Charging cable connects two USB-C ports — it does NOT include a USB-A connector. Not a retractable coil cable. Not a magnetic self-winding cable. Features a tangle-free, ultra-flexible design for everyday 240W fast charging. If you experience any quality issues upon arrival, our customer support team is available 24/7 to assist with a prompt and professional solution
- High Power ≠ High Risk | Smarter Compatibility for Every Device: 240W doesn't mean compromising safety—it means unmatched versatility. Thanks to PD3.1 Extended Power Range (EPR) technology, our c to c cable fast charging dynamically adjusts voltage/current to deliver each device's maximum safe power (e.g., 60W to iPads, 100W to older MacBooks, 140W to MacBook Pro). Other 60W/100W usb c to usb c cable can't hit full charging speed for your power-hungry devices—they're held back by their own power limits. LISEN 240W usb-c charge cable? It charges all your gear steadily, efficiently, and at full speed, with zero safety risks
- 240W Ultra Fast Charging | Smart Protocol Matching: This iPhone 18 pro max charger fast charging cable supports PD3.1 EPR/QC4.0 fast charging up to 240W Max, working seamlessly with USB-C Power Delivery adapters (e.g.60W/100W/240W). It automatically matches your device’s handshake protocol to deliver the maximum safe power it can handle. It's 2.4X faster than 100W fast charging usb-c cables: Up to 85% charged in 30 mins for iPhone 18 Pro Max, up to 65% charged in 30 mins for iPad Pro, and up to 80% charged in 30 mins for MacBook Pro 16''(M5). This iPhone 18 charger cord balances speed and protection perfectly, giving you both fast and secure charging
- E-Marker 3.0 Chip | Real-Time Current/Voltage Monitoring: LISEN 240W type c charger fast charging cable has an E-Marker 3.0 + PD3.1 EPR system that actively monitors current/voltage 3.2M+ times per second, ensuring zero overloads, short circuits, or battery damage. Paired with dual safeguards (overheat + surge protection) and PD3.1/QC4.0 certifications, it's not just a USB-C to USB-C cable—it's a smart guardian for your devices
- Premium Copper Core | Conductivity Meets Durability: This high speed usb c cable fast charging is upgraded from standard copper to 99.99% oxygen-free copper cores—thicker, purer, and lower-resistance. This means: (1) Stable power delivery even at 240W (no energy loss or heat buildup). (2) Longer lifespan (resists corrosion and wear, unlike cheaper alloys). (3) Faster data sync (480Mbps) with minimal signal interference
Restore a backup
- Open Smart Switch on the Mac and connect the Galaxy with the data-capable USB cable.
- Approve any access prompt on the phone.
- Select Restore in Smart Switch and follow the prompts. If you need an older backup, use Smart Switch’s option to choose a different backup.
Know what may not be included
A Smart Switch backup is not a guarantee that every app, credential, or protected item will be restored. Samsung identifies limits that can include secure or encrypted data, such as WhatsApp chats in its general backup guidance; DRM-protected content; app data held on service servers; some app credentials; apps not sourced from the Play Store; and apps without an equivalent in the destination store. See Samsung’s Mac backup guidance and its Smart Switch migration FAQ for details. Check app-specific backup instructions before erasing or trading in the old phone.
Use cloud storage for files you want on both devices
If you only need a selection of files available on your Galaxy and MacBook, upload them to a cloud-storage account and open that account on both devices. Samsung names Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox as examples of compatible providers in its file-transfer guidance. This approach makes chosen files accessible across devices, but it does not create the same kind of local device backup as Smart Switch.
Rank #3
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 80 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- Rapid Charging: Supports high-speed charging up to 100W when used with a compatible charger.
- Highly Compatible: Designed to work flawlessly with any USB-C device. (Does not support video output.)
- Rugged and Durable: A hard-wearing nylon exterior combines with a 5,000-bend lifespan to create a cable that’s durable both inside and out.
- What You Get: 2-Pack Anker 333 USB-C to USB-C Cable (6ft Nylon), hook and loop cable tie, welcome guide, everlasting warranty, and friendly customer service.
Why a USB-connected Galaxy may not appear in Finder
A charging connection is not proof that the cable supports data. Even with a data-capable cable, the official Samsung guidance cited here does not establish a universal workflow for browsing Galaxy internal storage in macOS Finder over USB. Samsung’s instructions to choose “Transferring files” or MTP describe a PC File Explorer workflow, not a confirmed Finder equivalent. Use Smart Switch for its documented Mac backup and restore functions, or choose Quick Share or cloud storage for selected files.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When moving to a new Galaxy
If your goal is to move data from an old Android phone to a new Galaxy using a Mac, Samsung’s documented Mac/PC route is to back up the old device with Smart Switch and then restore that backup to the new Galaxy. This migration process is distinct from browsing phone files on a Mac. Requirements Samsung lists for direct phone-to-phone transfers, including a stated 500 MB minimum of free internal storage on each phone, apply to that transfer method—not to a Mac backup. Samsung’s migration FAQ also describes an MTP option for a wired phone-to-phone connection; it should not be read as evidence that Finder can browse the phone.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 50 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- Enhanced Durability: Improved construction techniques and materials make a cable that lasts 5× longer.
- Universal Compatibility: Designed to work flawlessly with any device that uses a USB-C port.
- Fast Sync & Charge: Supports fast charging up to 15W (3A/5V) and data transfer speeds up to 480Mbps. (Not compatible with Power Delivery).
- What You Get: 2 × Premium Nylon-Braided USB-A to USB-C Charger Cable (6ft), welcome guide, everlasting warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- 60W Turbo Fast Charging：This iPhone 18 charger cord support PD3.0/QC3.0/QC4.0 fast charging up to 60W Max (20V/3A) with USB-C Power Delivery adapters such as 30W/45W/60W. Which 2.2X faster than 3.1A version and charges USB C Phone from 0% to 80% within 35 minutes, iPad Pro 64% within 35 minutes, Macbook air 50% within 35 minutes, and data transfer speeds up to 480Mbps (1200 songs synced per minute) compatible with Samsung,Tablt,iPad Air Mini Pro,Macbook and More.
- Right for ALL Your Devices：This is the USB-C to USB-C cable Not the USB-C to USB-A cable, iPhone 18 Pro Max fast charger Compatible with virtually all USB-C devices including phones, tablets, and laptops. Such as Samsung Galaxy S25/S24/S23/S22/S21+/S21/S20/ S20+/ S20 Ultra/ Note 10, MacBook Air/Pro 13'', iPad Mini 6, iPad Pro 2021/2020/2018, iPad Air 2020, iPhone 18/ iPhone Duo/ 18 pro max/ iPhone 17/ iPhone Air/ 17 pro max/iPhone 16/ 16 Plus/ 16 pro max/iPhone 15 pro max plus. NOTE: Don't Compatible with iPhone 14/13/12/11/X. This product supports bulk purchasing, making it ideal for businesses and large orders.
- Green Recyclable Materials：The LISEN USB C to USB C iPhone 18 17 16 15 charger fast charging you rely on most are braided from 48 strands of recyclable cotton yarn material. This braiding design also helps to prevent tangling and damage from bending and twisting. Using recycled materials is one of the ways we can lower the carbon impact of our products, since these materials often have a lower carbon footprint than materials from primary sources.
- Triple Protection USB C Port：USB to USB C Cable has electronic safety certifications that comply with appropriate standards, it built-in laser welding technology, which ensure the metal part won't break. The copper core part is reinforced with UV glue to prevent the solder joints from falling off. The USB C port pass Load-bearing 13KG test which longer service life and will never break.
- What You Get：LISEN USB C to USB C Cable 5-Pack (3.3/3.3/6.6/6.6/10FT), 18-Month worry-free period and 24/7 customer service, if you have any questions, we will resolve your issue within 24 hours. Whether you're shopping for samsung or iphone 16 pro max charger cord accessories gifts for men/women or reliable car accessories, this super fast charger usb c to c cable is built to last
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →
