How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC without Losing Quality [2025 Newest]

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By Jenefey Aaron

2025-04-22 / iOS File Transfer

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Help! I've got hundreds of photos on my iPhone that I need to move to my PC. What's the easiest way to transfer photos from iPhone to PC without losing quality? --From Reddit

Want to back up your iPhone photos or just free up some space? Whether you're using Windows 10 or 11, transferring photos from your iPhone to your PC is easier than you think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through several hassle-free methods—USB cable, iCloud, and even third-party tools—so you can choose the one that works best for you.

Key Tips for Choosing the Best Photo-Sharing Solution

Before diving into the specific tools, here are a few key factors to consider when choosing the right photo-sharing solution for your needs.

  • Easy Setup & Access:
  • Choose solutions that are quick to set up and don’t require frequent logins. Ideally, they should connect your phone and computer in just a few clicks.

  • Strong Data Security:
  • Prioritize options that avoid cloud storage and offer end-to-end encryption to protect your privacy and personal content.

  • Comprehensive Functionality:
  • Look for features like bidirectional transfers and cross-platform support (e.g., iOS to Windows) so you don’t need multiple apps.

  • User-Friendly Experience:
  • Opt for wireless solutions with a simple, intuitive interface. This way, you won’t have to rely on cables or relearn steps every time.

Part 2. How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC Wirelessly

Method 1: How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC Using iCloud

iCloud is Apple’s built-in cloud service that helps you sync and back up your data—including photos, messages, and contacts—across all your devices. It’s a convenient option if your photos are already synced with iCloud, making it easy to access and download them to your PC. Every Apple ID comes with 5GB of free iCloud storage, but you’ll need to upgrade if you require more space. How to get icloud storage for free >>

  • On your iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos.
  • iCloud Photo Library
  • Make sure iCloud Photos is enabled. This ensures your Camera Roll is syncing to your iCloud account.
  • On your PC, download and install iCloud for Windows, then sign in with your Apple ID.
  • Open the iCloud app, enable Photos, and check the boxes for iCloud Photo Library, Download new photos and videos to my PC, and Upload new photos and videos from my PC.
  • iCloud Photo Library

Once this is set up, new photos you take on your iPhone will automatically download to your PC.

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Alternative method (without installing software):

If you don’t want to install iCloud for Windows, you can simply go to iCloud.com on your PC. After signing in with your Apple ID, click on Photos in the sidebar. From there, you can manually select and download the images you want. To download multiple photos at once, hold down Ctrl while clicking on each image.

Method 2: How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC via Bluetooth

Bluetooth offers a quick way to transfer photos between devices, especially useful for small amounts of data. It's convenient for short-range transfers but can be slow for large volumes of photos. Ensure both devices support Bluetooth and are within range for successful transfers.

  • Turn on Bluetooth on your iPhone.
  • Click the Windows icon > Settings > Devices > Add Bluetooth or other devices.
  • Select Bluetooth and choose your iPhone from the list. Enter the authorization code to pair devices.
  • Open the Photos app on your iPhone and select the photos you want to send. Next, tap Send and choose Bluetooth.
    transfer photos to pc via bluetooth

Method 3: How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC via Email

Emailing photos from iPhone to PC is a versatile method that works with any device capable of receiving emails. It's suitable for individual photos or small batches but can be cumbersome for large numbers of images due to attachment limits. Make sure you have an email account set up on your iPhone and know the recipient's email address for successful transfers.

  • Open the Mail app on your iPhone.
  • Start a new email and enter your email address as the recipient.
  • Tap the Attach icon and select the photos you want to send.
  • Send the email to yourself. Open your email on your PC and download the photos.
    transfer photos from iphone to pc via email

Method 4: How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC via Google Photos

Another easy way to transfer iPhone photos to your PC is by using Google Photos, especially if you already use Google services. Just install the Google Photos app on your iPhone, back up your photos to the cloud, and then access them on your PC via the Google Photos website.

This method is great for wireless transfers and long-term storage. However, uploading and downloading large photo libraries may take time depending on your internet speed. Also, be aware that Google Photos may compress your images if you're not using the "Original quality" setting, unless you have enough Google Drive storage.

  • Open Google Photos in your browser and sign in with your Google account.
  • Google Photos
  • Click on the "Upload" button, then select "Computer" to begin uploading your photos to the cloud.
  • On your iPhone, download the Google Photos app from the App Store, and log in with the same Google account you used on your computer.
  • Once logged in, go to the Photos tab in the app to view and access the photos you uploaded from your PC.

Method 5: How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC via Dropbox

Dropbox is another convenient cloud-based option for transferring photos from your iPhone to your PC. By uploading your photos to Dropbox through the mobile app, you can easily access and download them on your computer using the Dropbox website or desktop app.

This method is ideal for users who already use Dropbox for file management. However, like other cloud services, it depends on your internet connection and available storage space. Also, free accounts have limited storage, so large photo libraries may require an upgrade to a paid plan.

  • Download and install the Dropbox app from the App Store on your iPhone.
  • Open the app and sign in with your Dropbox account. If you don’t have one, you can create it for free.
  • Tap the “+” (plus) button and select “Upload Photos” to choose the pictures you want to transfer from your iPhone.
  • Upload Photos on dropbox
  • Once uploaded, go to Dropbox.com on your PC or open the Dropbox desktop app.
  • Sign in with the same account and navigate to the folder where your photos were uploaded.
  • Download the photos to your PC by selecting them and clicking the “Download” option.

Method 6: How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC via OneDrive

OneDrive, Microsoft's cloud storage service, offers an easy way to transfer photos from your iPhone to your PC — especially if you're already using a Windows computer. By uploading your iPhone photos to OneDrive using the mobile app, you can seamlessly access and download them on your PC without using cables or third-party tools.

This method is great for users who want automatic backups or already use Microsoft 365. Just keep in mind that the free storage space is limited (5GB), and upload/download speeds depend on your internet connection.

  • Download and install the OneDrive app from the App Store on your iPhone.
  • Sign in with your Microsoft account or create a new one.
  • onedrive
  • Enable Camera Upload in the app settings for automatic uploads or manually upload photos by tapping the "+" button.
  • After uploading, visit OneDrive.com or open the OneDrive desktop app on your PC.
  • Sign in with the same Microsoft account and find your uploaded photos.
  • Download the photos by selecting them and clicking the "Download" button.

Part 3. How to Transfer Pictures from iPhone to PC with USB

USB transfers provide a fast and reliable method for moving photos, especially beneficial for large quantities of high-resolution images. They require a USB cable and compatible ports on both devices. Follow the methods below to import photos from iPhone to PC.

Method 1: How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC via Apple Devices App

The Apple Devices app facilitates easy photo transfer between iOS devices and computers. It's integrated into macOS and Windows systems, offering a straightforward interface for managing and transferring photos. Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer and trust the computer option enabled on your iPhone for successful transfers.

  • Download and install the Apple Devices app from the Microsoft Store on your PC.
  • Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to your PC. Unlock your iPhone using your passcode.
  • When asked to Trust This Computer on your iPhone, tap Trust.
  • Open the Apple Devices app on your PC. Follow the on-screen instructions to import photos.
  • Ensure compatibility by setting your iPhone camera to the Most Compatible format in Settings > Camera > Formats.
    apple devices app

Method 2: How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC via File Explorer

Using File Explorer on Windows or Finder on macOS allows for direct access to connected iOS devices, enabling users to drag and drop photos onto their computer. This method requires a USB cable and a compatible port on your computer. Ensure your iPhone is unlocked and connected to the computer during the transfer process. Use Free Download Best File Explorers for iPhone.

  • Use the USB charging cable to connect your iPhone to your PC.
  • Unlock your iPhone using Touch ID, Face ID, or your passcode. Tap Trust or Allow if prompted on your iPhone to establish a connection with the computer.
  • Click on the File Explorer icon in the taskbar or open it from the Start menu.
  • file explorer
  • Under This PC on the left sidebar of File Explorer, find and click on your connected iPhone to access its contents.
  • Right-click on your iPhone icon and choose Import pictures and videos from the menu.
  • Select Import all new items now and click Next. This will start importing all photos and videos from your iPhone to the Pictures folder on your PC.
  • Follow the progress of the import. Depending on the number of files, it may take some time.
  • Once the import is complete, File Explorer will open the folder containing your imported photos. You can also manually navigate to the Pictures folder to find them.
    transfer photos from iphone to pc bluetooth

Part 4. One-Click to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC without Picture Quality Loss

For a simple and quick way to transfer photos from iPhone to your PC or Mac, Tenorshare iCareFone is a great choice. If you're tired of the complicated steps, unstable connections, or quality loss when transferring iPhone photos to your PC, you're not alone. Many users find it frustrating that their high-quality photos end up looking compressed or blurry after transfer. With iCareFone, you can transfer original-quality photos from iPhone to PC without iCloud, iTunes, or any compression. Whether you're moving a few snapshots or an entire album, iCareFone ensures that your images remain crystal clear — exactly as they were taken.

Advantages of Tenorshare iCareFone.

  • Lossless Quality: Keeps every photo in its original resolution and format — no compression.
  • One-Click Transfer: Export 1000+ photos in seconds with just one click.
  • No Wi-Fi Needed: Works with USB connection for faster and more stable transfers.
  • Flexible File Management: Select specific photos or bulk transfer — you’re in control.

Steps to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC (Windows 10/11)

  • After downloading and installing Tenorshare iCareFone on your personal computer or Mac, you will need to connect your device to the software.

    reset all settings
  • Once the device has been properly connected, go to the main interface and choose "One-click Export Photos to PC" for a speedy beginning.

    reset all settings
  • Once you begin the exporting process, all of your images, whether they were taken by your device or acquired from the internet, will be transferred to your computer automatically.

    reset all settings

Watch the video guide to see how to transfer photos from iPhone to PC

Part 5. FAQs about How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC

Q1. What is the easiest way to transfer photos from iPhone to PC?

The easiest way to transfer photos from iPhone to PC is by using Tenorshare iCareFone. It allows for quick, lossless photo transfers with just one click, ensuring your photos remain in their original quality without complicated steps.

Q2. Why won't my iPhone show up on my PC?

If your iPhone isn't showing up on your PC, it could be due to several reasons: outdated drivers, faulty USB cable, incorrect connection settings (such as "Trust This Device"), or a problem with iTunes or Windows itself. Try restarting both your iPhone and PC, updating your drivers, and ensuring you select "Trust" when prompted on your iPhone.

Q3. Is Google Photos not free anymore?

Google no longer offers unlimited free storage for Google Photos. As of June 1, 2021, new photos and videos you upload will count towards the 15GB of free storage provided with each Google account.

Q4. Should I use iCloud or Google Photos?

If you're heavily integrated into the Apple ecosystem, iCloud is a seamless choice for syncing photos across Apple devices. However, if you want cross-platform access (e.g., on Android or Windows), Google Photos offers more flexibility, though it requires managing storage limits.

Conclusion

Transferring photos from iPhone to PC can be achieved through various methods, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Wireless options like iCloud, Bluetooth, and email offer convenience and flexibility but depend on an internet connection. USB transfers, whether through the Apple Devices app or File Explorer, provide a fast and reliable alternative, especially for large datasets.

Tenorshare iCareFone stands out as a convenient solution for those looking to transfer photos with just one click. It simplifies the process, ensuring that your photos are transferred quickly and securely without compromising on data. Whether you're managing a large collection of photos or simply need to back them up, iCareFone provides a user-friendly experience.

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