How to Transfer Files from iCloud to PC? Solved in 3 Easy Ways

iCloud is the primary method for Apple users to back up and sync files. More and more users are getting used to saving photos, videos, documents, and other files in iCloud. However, iCloud only offers 5GB of free storage, so you might want to transfer your iCloud files to your PC to free up iCloud storage. So, how to transfer files from iCloud to PC? Don't worry; this article will walk you through several simple and practical methods.

Part 1. How to Transfer Files from iCloud Drive to PC via iCloud.com

If you don't want to install any software, then using the iCloud.com is the simplest and most straightforward option.

How do I export from iCloud to PC via iCloud.com? Follow these steps:

Step 1. Open any browser on your PC (such as Chrome, Edge, or Firefox).

Step 2. Go to the official website: https://www.icloud.com.

Step 3. Log in with your Apple ID and password.

Step 4. After logging in, click the "iCloud Drive" icon to enter the file management interface. (iCloud Drive not syncing?)

Step 5. Browse the files you've saved in the cloud and select the files or folders you want to download.

Step 6. Click the "Download" icon in the top right corner (a cloud with an arrow), and the files will be saved to your computer's default download location.

Part 2. How to Move Files from iCloud to PC Using iCloud for Windows

If you frequently need to access or sync iCloud files, it is recommended to use the iCloud for Windows software provided by Apple. It establishes a sync relationship between your computer and iCloud, allowing files to automatically download to a designated local folder, greatly improving efficiency.

How do I share files from iCloud to PC? Here are the steps:

Step 1. Visit the official Apple website to download and install iCloud for Windows.

Step 2. After installation, open the software and log in with your Apple ID.

Step 3. In the software interface, check the "iCloud Drive" option and click "Apply" to enable syncing.

Step 4. Open Windows File Explorer and you'll find a shortcut named "iCloud Drive" on the left-hand side.

Step 5. Click on it to view the synced files, and you can drag, copy, or move these files to any local folder.

Part 3. How to Transfer Files from iCloud to PC via iPhone Data Recovery

In addition to the two methods above, you can also use Coolmuster iPhone Data Recovery to transfer files from iCloud to your PC. It is a powerful iOS data recovery tool that allows you to view the entire contents of your iCloud backup and transfer it fully or partially to your PC.

What can iPhone Data Recovery do for you?

• Transfer files from iCloud to PC with ease.
• Restore from iCloud backup without reset.
• Offer three recovery modes: Recover from iOS Devices, Recover from iTunes Backup, and Recover from iCloud Backup.
• Support to transfer/recover contacts, photos, notes, note attachments, calendars, and reminders from your iCloud to your PC.
• Directly recover contacts and messages from iOS devices without a backup.
• Work well with the latest iPhone 16 series and iOS 18.

Free Download for PC

Here is how to transfer files from iCloud to PC using iPhone Data Recovery:

Video Tutorial:

Part 4. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I download an entire iCloud folder to my computer?

Currently, it's not possible to download an entire iCloud folder at once directly through the iCloud.com website. You need to download the folders one by one or use the iCloud for Windows client to sync the folders to your computer.

Q2. What should I do if iCloud can't log in or the download fails?

If iCloud can't log in or the download fails, try the following solutions:

• Check your network connection: Ensure that the network is stable. Try reconnecting or switching to a different network.
• Check Apple System Status: Visit the Apple System Status page to see if there are any service outages.
• Update iCloud: Make sure you are using the latest version of the iCloud client and your device's operating system.
• Check storage space: Confirm that there is enough storage space on both iCloud and your device.
• Log out and log back in: Sign out of your iCloud account and then sign back in. (Can't sign out of your Apple ID?)
• Clear browser cache: If you're using a browser to log in, try clearing the cache or switching to a different browser.
• Disable firewall or security software: Check if your firewall or security software is blocking the iCloud connection.

If the issue persists, you can contact Apple Support.

Q3. Is there a file size limit when downloading from iCloud?

The web browser method may struggle with very large files (e.g., >50GB). iCloud for Windows handles larger files better but depends on available storage.

Wrapping Up

Transferring files from iCloud to a PC is not complicated, as long as you choose the right method. If you only need to download a small number of files from iCloud occasionally, accessing iCloud via the web is the quickest and easiest way. However, if you frequently use iCloud files, it's recommended to install iCloud for Windows clients.

We especially recommend Coolmuster iPhone Data Recovery, as it not only supports transferring various data types from iCloud to a PC but also has powerful capabilities to recover deleted files.

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