Pick Your Method
- QuickTransfer: best for a handful of short clips.
- USB‑C SD reader: fastest and most reliable for big batches.
- Direct USB‑C cable: convenient with newer drones/iPhones.
- AirDrop: great for selects between Apple devices.
After Transfer
Run HEVCut to shrink files before iCloud. 4K30 at 20–35 Mbps looks great for most scenic footage; 4K60 action needs 35–50 Mbps.
Decision Checklist
- Few clips under 3 GB each? QuickTransfer.
- Dozens of clips or 50+ GB? SD reader.
- No reader handy and both have USB‑C? Direct cable.
- From a Mac library to iPhone? AirDrop HEVC selects.
Common Pitfalls
- Copying while previewing can slow transfers or cause hiccups.
- Low battery triggers throttling—charge devices before big moves.
- VFR clips cause editor issues—re‑encode to constant frame rate.