October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PCOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
Cupertino desk3 min

Move iTunes and iPhone Backups to Another Drive in Windows 11

Apple offers no supported custom backup-location setting for Windows. Here’s how to identify the right folder and redirect it to another drive with a junction.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

You can redirect local iPhone backups to another drive in Windows 11, but Apple does not provide a supported setting to choose a custom backup folder. The usual workaround is to move the existing Backup folder and create a Windows directory junction at its original location. First identify which Apple app and iTunes edition you use: their default-folder paths differ.

Find the backup folder for your Windows Apple app

The correct starting location depends on how iTunes was installed, not on whether you have a laptop or desktop PC. Apple gives different paths for Apple Devices or Microsoft Store iTunes and for older traditional desktop iTunes. Apple’s Windows backup guidance explains how to locate and manage backups, but does not document a supported custom-location setting.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

App or installation Enter in Run What to do next
Apple Devices or Microsoft Store iTunes %USERPROFILE% In File Explorer, follow the Apple/MobileSync path and locate the existing Backup folder.
Older traditional desktop iTunes %AppData% Follow the path for that installation and locate its Backup folder. The community example gives Apple ComputerMobileSyncBackup for traditional iTunes; verify the actual folder on your PC.

To open Run, press Windows + R, type the value for your installation, and press Enter. Do not substitute one starting location for the other: using the wrong one can lead you to a different folder than the one your app uses.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Choose a destination and prepare a recoverable copy

You can use another suitable local volume or an external drive. Choose a destination that has enough available space for your existing backups and remains connected whenever you need to make or restore a backup. The drive does not need to be a particular brand or model.

#1 Best Overall
Yojaro 4Pack Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount, Silicon Adhesive Smartphones Stand Sticky, Hands-Free Phone Accessories Holder for Selfies and Videos (Black & White & Translucent & Light Pink)
  • 【Strong Adsorption】The inspiration of the silicone phone suction case comes from the adhesive force of the octopus. Each suction cup phone mount is 3.15 inches long and 2.17 inches wide, with 24 independent suction cups providing a stronger and more stable suction force, so you don't have to worry about your phone falling during use.
  • 【Back of Phone Suction Grip】Remove the adhesive film on the phone suction cup and stick it on the phone case. You can then fix the phone on any smooth surface, which is very convenient. (The phone suction cup cannot be removed and reused after being attached to the phone case. It is recommended to attach it to a regular phone case, not a valuable one.)
  • 【Widely Used】Our non-slip silicone phone sticky grip mount attaches to almost any flat phone case and make it compatible with common mobile phones such as iPhone and Android.You can shoot, watch videos or video calls in the kitchen, gym, dance studio, bathroom and other places.
  • 【Capture the Wonderful Picture】Whether you are a TikTok creator or just like to share videos and photos, this phone suction cup can help you hands-free capture wonderful videos and photos for sharing with friends.
  • 【Note】You can fix the phone suction cup on a smooth surface such as a mirror or glass. If necessary, wipe the suction cup with a damp cloth to obtain stronger suction. Before releasing your hand, make sure the phone is firmly fixed. (Not applicable to rough walls, wooden surfaces, and other uneven surfaces)
  1. Close iTunes or Apple Devices.
  2. Create a destination folder on the other volume, for example D:iPhoneBackupsBackup. This is only an example; use the actual drive letter and folder you chose.
  3. Copy the contents of the original Backup folder to the destination. Keep a separate recoverable copy of the original until you have successfully made and confirmed a new backup.

Moving the folder and redirecting its old location is an unofficial workaround, not an Apple-supported migration procedure. A wrong path or missing destination can prevent the app from finding backups.

Create the directory junction at the old path

After confirming that the backup contents are safely copied, ensure the original Backup path is no longer an ordinary directory. Then use Command Prompt to create a junction that points from the original path to the destination. Microsoft documents mklink for Windows 11; its /j option creates a directory junction. See Microsoft’s mklink command documentation.

Rank #2
Apple EarPods Headphones with USB-C Plug, Wired Ear Buds with Built-in Remote to Control Music, Phone Calls, and Volume
  • SUPERIOR COMFORT — Unlike traditional circular ear buds, the design of EarPods is defined by the geometry of the ear. Which makes them more comfortable for more people than any other ear bud–style headphones.
  • HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO — The speakers inside EarPods have been engineered to maximize sound output and minimize sound loss, which means you get high-quality audio.
  • BUILT-IN REMOTE — EarPods with USB-C plug also include a built-in remote that lets you adjust the volume, control the playback of music and video, and answer or end calls with a pinch of the cord.
  • COMPATIBILITY — Works with all devices that have a USB-C port.
  • INTEGRATED MICROPHONE — A built-in microphone precisely captures your voice while you’re on the phone, taking a FaceTime call, or summoning Siri — so you’re always heard loud and clear.
  1. Open Command Prompt. If Windows does not allow the command to create the junction at your chosen location, reopen Command Prompt with the permissions needed for that folder.
  2. Enter the command using the exact full paths on your PC: mklink /J "<original Backup path>" "<destination Backup path>".
  3. Replace both quoted paths with the actual paths. The first is where the app originally expected the Backup folder; the second is the folder holding the copied backup contents. Do not use the example destination unless it matches your setup.

The original path must not still be a normal folder when you create the junction. If the command reports an error, stop and check the two paths and the state of the original folder rather than deleting or overwriting your only backup.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Test a backup and confirm it completes

Reopen Apple Devices or iTunes, connect your device, and make a local backup. Apple’s workflow is to select the connected device and use General in Apple Devices or Summary in iTunes. Trust the computer if prompted. When the backup finishes, check the displayed date and time of the last backup; Apple identifies this as the completion indicator. Apple’s Windows backup instructions describe the workflow.

Rank #3
PopSockets Adhesive Phone Grip, Holder- Black | Anti-Drop, Kickstand, Secure Comfortable Hold, Black, Create a Mobile Phone Outfit
  • Secure Hold: Our PopSockets adhesive phone grip gives your cell phone a secure, comfortable hold in hand to help prevent drops while texting, taking photos, or scrolling on the go. Designed to stick firmly to most phone cases and devices.
  • Hands-Free Made Easy: Easily turn your PopSocket into a phone stand to prop up your phone anywhere, perfect for watching videos, video calls, or following recipes. A must-have phone holder that keeps your device secure and ready for anything.
  • Compatibility: Works with all phones, tablets, and Kindles. Sticks best to smooth, hard plastic cases and may not adhere to silicone or textured cases. Easily swap your PopTop to change up your style.
  • Black PopSockets: Simple, refined, and endlessly versatile. A timeless essential for any phone.
  • Travel Must-Have for People On the Go: A must-have travel accessory for flights, flying, airports, air travel, airplanes, planes, international trips, cruises, and long travel days. Key gadget for your airport haul, travel accessories and must-haves.

If the backup does not complete or the app cannot access backups, close the app and restore the original folder arrangement using the retained copy. Do not delete that copy until a new backup has completed and you have confirmed it in the app.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Encrypt the backup if you need Health and Activity data

Apple says a local backup must be encrypted to preserve Health and Activity data, including data from Apple Watch. When enabling encryption, save the password somewhere secure and retrievable. Apple warns that encrypted backups cannot be recovered without that password. This encryption choice is separate from the folder-location workaround.

Best Value
Anteel 2 Pack Silicone Suction Cup Phone Case Mount Double Sided, Hands-Free Silicon Phone Grip with Higher Suction Power for Selfies and Videos, Non Slip Phone Accessories (LightPink&White)
  • 【PKYAA Double Sided Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount】PKYAA With Double Sided 40 Strong and Reliable individual suction cups, PKYAA provides a thicken and upgraded universal silicon suction mount for your phone.
  • 【Friendly to Content Creators】If you are a content creator or an online influencer, you can create videos anywhere with this suction mount completely hands free with this silicone cell phone mount for cases.
  • 【HANDS-FREE & Adhere to Mirrors】This Double Sided silicone suction phone case mount allows you to stick your phone to the mirror easily. No longer holding your phone in one hand to watch video tutorials while making up.
  • 【Strong Grip on the Smooth Surface】You can easily hang your phone anywhere with a smooth surface. All you do is you clean off your phone and smooth surface. It is STURDY and it not only sticks to mirrors, it also sticks to windows, it sticks to refrigerators, tiles and other clean, flat surfaces.
  • 【Press Down Firmly Every 30 Minutes】Use your palm or fingers to press the phone down firmly and check it's secure before letting go. Apply even pressure for a few seconds to allow the suction cup to adhere properly. To maintain the grip and prevent accidental falls, it's a good practice to periodically reapply pressure to the suction cup.
Rank #4
360° Rotating Stainless Steel Phone Tether Tab (Silvery 3-Pack) - Universal for iPhone & Other Phones (Fits Wristbands/Necklaces/Crossbody Straps)
  • [360 ° Flexible Rotation Design] Comes with a rotatable lanyard ring that supports 360 ° free rotation, effectively solving the problem of twisted and tangled lanyards
  • [Wide compatibility] The ultra-thin 0.02-inch design does not block the charging port at all, and both wired and wireless charging can be used directly without removing the pad. Compatible with most smartphones such as iPhone, compatible with various wristbands, lanyards, crossbody straps, and keychains
  • [Durable and Portable Material] Premium rust-resistant stainless steel material with good flexibility, which not only avoids scratching the phone case, but also has excellent anti rust and anti fading performance
  • [Multi scenario Practical] Paired with a lanyard or wristband, hands-free use can be achieved. The phone is within reach and not easily dropped, ideal for daily commuting and outdoor activities. Suitable for full coverage phone cases, does not support half coverage phone cases
  • [Quality Service] If you find any damage or other issues with the product upon receipt, please contact us immediately. We will handle it quickly

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.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Wire

  1. World desk4 min
    How to Spot an AI Voice Scam Before Sending MoneyDon’t rely on how a caller sounds. Pause, call back through a known number, and verify the emergency with another trusted person before sending money.
  2. Mountain View desk4 min
    Google’s SynthID Detector: How to Check AI-Generated Images, Video and AudioGoogle’s SynthID Detector looks for an embedded watermark in supported images, video and audio. Here is what its results do—and do not—show.
  3. Redmond desk20 min
    How to create a link to File or Folder in Windows 11Windows 11 gives you several ways to point to a file or folder without moving or duplicating it. You can create a desktop shortcut,…
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.