Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
You may not need to delete anything. Apple says you can transfer your data without removing it if it fits on the new iPhone. First compare the phones’ capacities and check what is using space; if the new phone has less room, optimize or remove only what you no longer need, then back up and transfer your data.
Check iPhone storage and the new phone’s capacity
- On the current iPhone, open Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Review used and available space, the category breakdown, and any recommendations shown. The exact presentation can vary by iOS version. Apple’s iPhone storage guide explains how to review these details.
- Compare your current usage with the storage capacity of the iPhone you plan to get. Apple says that if all your data fits on the new device, you can transfer it without removing anything. If the destination is lower-capacity, use the storage breakdown to identify what may need optimizing or removing. Apple’s lower-capacity migration guide covers this case.
- Check iCloud storage separately if you rely on iCloud Photos or an iCloud backup: open Settings > [your name] > iCloud. Device storage and iCloud storage are separate. Apple says a new iCloud account includes 5 GB of free storage; whether that is enough depends on your backup and library. Apple’s iCloud storage guide explains how to check usage.
There is no universal free-space buffer established for a transfer. Decide based on the destination’s capacity and what the storage screen shows, rather than deleting items just to reach an arbitrary target.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Reduce storage without losing the only copy
Optimize photos stored in iCloud
If photos and videos take up much of the space, you can keep full-resolution originals in iCloud and smaller, space-saving versions on the phone. Open Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Photos, turn on Sync this iPhone, then select Optimize iPhone Storage. You need enough iCloud storage for the originals and network access to use the full-resolution library. Menu wording may differ by iOS version. See Apple’s storage guidance.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Review downloads, apps, and other large items
Return to Settings > General > iPhone Storage and review Apple’s suggestions, if available, along with the largest apps and categories. Apple’s lower-capacity guide identifies downloaded audio, films, TV shows, books, app content, and apps you no longer use as possible items to review. Remove only downloads or app content you recognize and can replace or no longer need. Options vary by app; there is no universal cache-clearing control established in Apple’s guidance. Apple also mentions reviewing large files or backups and merging duplicate photos in its storage recommendations.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
USB Flash Drive for iPhone/iPad, MFi Certified 3in1, 256GB, Silver | External Memory Photo Storge Keeper, Type c/USB 3.0/USB C High Speed, Compatible with PC, Video/Data Backup Card
- MFi Certified Multi-function Flash Drive: This flash drive is MFi certified, high quality and excellent performance, allowing you to store your data more securely without worrying about data loss. Made of high quality metal material and advanced chip technology, it has excellent dustproof, drop-proof and anti-magnetic performance. The flash drive has a 256GB capacity, easily free up space on your device
- 256GB 3-in-1 Lightweight and Compact Memory Stick: The flash drive has USB/Lightning/Type C interfaces for USB/Usb C pcie port card compatible with iOS devices with iOS12.1 and above / OTG Android phones / PC with Win7 and above / MAC devices with MAC10.6 and above, convenient for data transfer between different devices. It is also lightweight and compact, easy to carry around and keep your data at your fingertips. Accompanied by a uniquely designed keychain, the product is more convenient for you to carry
- One Click Backup and One Click Sharing: You can easily backup photos, videos, and phonebook to your phone with just one click via the APP, freeing up space on your mobile device without using a data cable or iCloud. You can also share photos/videos/files from the flash drive directly to social media (Facebook, etc.) for easy sharing with family and friends. (Tips: iOS devices need to download the "U-Disk" APP when using flash drive; Android and PC devices do not need to download APP)
- Automatic Storage and On-the-Go Playback: All photos and videos captured by the in-app camera are automatically saved to U-Disk albums in real time and stored in a folder for easy editing and searching. Store your favorite movies and music on the flash drive, you can enjoy the stored movies or music anytime and anywhere when you are traveling or on a business trip
- High Speed Transfer and Data Encryption: This flash drive has high read/write speed, so you can enjoy the convenience of fast backup and save time. The flash drive uses stable APP software, you can choose to turn on Touch ID/Passcode to encrypt the whole flash drive, or you can choose to encrypt specific files to protect your data, so you can enjoy a more convenient and secure file storage experience
Archive photos before deleting them
If you want to remove selected photos or videos, first import them to a computer and verify that the copied files open. Apple documents importing media to a computer and deleting selected items from the iPhone afterward. An external SSD can be an optional archive through a compatible computer workflow, but Apple’s cited instructions do not establish that a particular drive connects directly to every iPhone. See Apple’s photo-import instructions and lower-capacity device guidance.
Quick Recap
SaleBestseller No. 1
SaleBestseller No. 3
SaleBestseller No. 4
Best Value
Sale
SANDISK 256GB Phone Drive for iPhone USB-C Lightning Dual Connector | USB Flash Drive, For iPhones, iPads, Mac, and USB-C Devices, Made for iPhone Certified, Metallic Blue
- Made For iPhone Certified. Compatible with iPhone 15 or newer (USB-C) and iPhone 14 or older models (Lightning)(2). When connected via USB-C, works with SANDISK Memory Zone app or Apple iOS Files app—automatic backup requires SANDISK app(3). Lightning connection requires the SANDISK app for copy and backup functions(3).
- SANDISK Memory Zone App Required. Download the app(3) from the App Store and update firmware if prompted to optimize your file management experience or jump to the iOS Files app from the home screen.
- Free Up Space. Seamlessly transfer files to your SanDisk Phone Drive, then easily delete them from your phone to reclaim valuable storage(3).
- Smarter Backups. Choose manual or automatic backup within the SANDISK Memory Zone app with real-time progress tracking, background multitasking, and partial backup support when storage is limited(3).
- Reliable Transfers. Move content between your USB-C or Lightning iPhone, iPad Pro, Mac, and other compatible devices(2).
Rank #4
Sale
EATOP 512GB Flash Drive Intended for iPhone iPad, USB Photo Stick for Photo & Video Backup, External Phone Memory Storage, No App Required, Compatible with iOS, Android & PC, Purple
- 【High Capacity & Effortless Backup】This Compatibility iPhone USB storage flash drive easily handles today’s larger 4K videos, high-resolution photos, and contacts. Easy backup frees up space instantly, so you’ll never miss capturing important moments. Perfect for iPhone, iPad, Android and PC users. (Note: For iPhone/iPad No App Required; For Android only Needs OTG Enabled, No Extra App.)
- 【Universal Compatibility with Dual Interfaces】Featuring USB, USB-L, Micro USB and USB-C independent ports, this iPhone photo storage stick connects seamlessly with iPhone/iPad, Android OTG phones, laptops and tablets. No iCloud fees, no internet required—just plug in and transfer files freely between your phone, computer and other devices.
- 【Blazing Fast Transfers Anywhere】Featuring upgraded high-speed chips, this portable phone external storage drive enables instant mass file transfers—up to 30 MB/s read speed and 15 MB/s write speed—no WiFi or data cables required. Save time sharing photos, moving large video projects, whether you’re traveling, working, or creating content on the go.
- 【Easy Backup, Enjoy Anytime Anyplace】Plug-and-play & simple to operate—quickly back up videos, photos, contacts and documents without tedious copying or pasting. No third-party apps required; just plug the drive into your iPhone, iPad or Android device and operate via the "Files" app. You can also share files directly from the iPhone photo stick to social media, instantly sharing wonderful moments with friends and family.
- 【How to Transfer in iPhone iPad】Requires iOS 13 and Higher: Simply insert the flash drive into your iPhone iPad, then go to the "Files" app, Click back to “Browse” and find the flash drive named “Untitled”, Move photos videos and files to your iPad or iPhone as needed.
Rank #3
Sale
MFi Certified 256GB Flash Drive for iPhone iPad, Photo Stick for External Memory Storage, Easily Back Up and Save Photos Videos, USB Memory Stick Thumb Drive for iPhone/iPad/Android/PC
- 【MFi Certified Flash Drive, Wide Compatibility】This 256GB USB flash drive for iPhone is officially MFi certified, ensuring full support for all iOS devices (iOS 12.1 and above). NOTE: For iPhone users, please download the required app from the App Store before use, while Android only needs to open your OTG function.
- 【Large Storage Capacity, Backup Easily】With 256GB/512GB of additional storage, this iPhone flash drive perfectly addresses memory shortages on your phone or iPad. You can share your special moment with your friends and family on your social media with just one-click. Note: The displayed capacity may differ from 256GB/512GB due to different calculation methods between storage manufacturers (1GB=1000MB) and computers (1GB=1024MB).
- 【Multi Port Design, Plug and Play】Equipped with USB/Lightning/Micro USB/Type-C (with independent adapter), this usb storage flash drive supports a variety of devices for effortless plug and play operation. Quickly transfer data between different devices, significantly enhancing convenience. Please note: Type-C adapter is shipped randomly in black or silver.
- 【High Speed Transfer, Save Your Time】With read speeds up to 40MB/s and write speeds up to 25MB/s, this thumb drive is more efficient than traditional USB drive. Allowing you to quickly transfer files, photos, and videos, which help you save time and focus on the things you like. Note: Actual speeds may vary based on device and processor performance.
- 【Stylish, Portable, and Secure】With a compact and stylish design, this flash drive for iPhone is available in blue, pink, black and gold, making it easy to carry around. The built-in encryption option allows you to set a password via the APP to secure your personal files, photos and videos, ensuring you have peace of mind when storing and accessing your precious memories while traveling or for daily use.
Rank #2
Sale
MFi Certified 256GB Flash Drive for iPhone iPad, Photo Stick for External Memory Storage, Easily Back Up and Save Photos Videos, USB Memory Stick Thumb Drive for iPhone/iPad/Android/PC (Blue)
- 【MFi Certified Flash Drive, Wide Compatibility】This 256GB USB flash drive for iPhone is officially MFi certified, ensuring full support for all iOS devices (iOS 12.1 and above). NOTE: For iPhone users, please download the required app from the App Store before use, while Android only needs to open your OTG function.
- 【Large Storage Capacity, Backup Easily】With 256GB/512GB of additional storage, this iPhone flash drive perfectly addresses memory shortages on your phone or iPad. You can share your special moment with your friends and family on your social media with just one-click. Note: The displayed capacity may differ from 256GB/512GB due to different calculation methods between storage manufacturers (1GB=1000MB) and computers (1GB=1024MB).
- 【Multi Port Design, Plug and Play】Equipped with USB/Lightning/Micro USB/Type-C (with independent adapter), this usb storage flash drive supports a variety of devices for effortless plug and play operation. Quickly transfer data between different devices, significantly enhancing convenience. Please note: Type-C adapter is shipped randomly in black or silver.
- 【High Speed Transfer, Save Your Time】With read speeds up to 40MB/s and write speeds up to 25MB/s, this thumb drive is more efficient than traditional USB drive. Allowing you to quickly transfer files, photos, and videos, which help you save time and focus on the things you like. Note: Actual speeds may vary based on device and processor performance.
- 【Stylish, Portable, and Secure】With a compact and stylish design, this flash drive for iPhone is available in blue, pink, black and gold, making it easy to carry around. The built-in encryption option allows you to set a password via the APP to secure your personal files, photos and videos, ensuring you have peace of mind when storing and accessing your precious memories while traveling or for daily use.
Choose a backup and transfer method
| Method | Best fit | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Start | You have both iPhones together and want to set up the new one from the old one. | Apple supports a direct transfer or downloading from iCloud. Keep the phones near each other, connect them to power, and enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. A direct transfer keeps both devices occupied until it finishes; an iCloud download can continue in the background. Time depends on network conditions and data size. Devices enrolled in Apple School Manager or Apple Business cannot use Quick Start to transfer from the current device. Apple Quick Start instructions. |
| iCloud backup | You want to restore a backup, or use Quick Start’s iCloud-download route. | For a manual backup, open Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now. Automatic backups require the iPhone to be connected to power and Wi-Fi with its screen locked. If iCloud space is insufficient, review Apple’s storage options. Apple backup instructions. |
| Computer backup | You have a Mac or PC and prefer a local backup and restore. | Apple lists Apple Devices, Finder, or iTunes, depending on the computer and software, for backing up and restoring an iPhone. Apple’s computer-backup instructions. |
| Temporary iCloud storage | You are buying a new iPhone or iPad, are eligible, and do not have enough iCloud space for a transfer backup. | Apple says the temporary backup is available to restore for 21 days, with an additional 21 days possible if the new device has not arrived. After restoring, it remains available for 7 days before deletion. These are Apple’s published terms as of 2026. Do not erase the current device before restoring the temporary backup. Apple’s temporary iCloud storage instructions. |
Transfer only after you are ready
- Finish any cleanup you chose, and make sure important photos and files have another verified copy if you deleted them from the phone.
- Make a backup or start Quick Start using the method that fits your available devices, computer, iCloud space, and network.
- Keep the current iPhone intact until the new iPhone has completed setup and you have confirmed the data you need is available. For a temporary iCloud backup, Apple specifically says not to erase the current iPhone or iPad until the backup has been restored.
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.
