Send files from a Mac to a Windows PC

Mac and Windows have never shared files comfortably. AirDrop stops at Apple's edge, Windows file sharing needs both machines on the same network with permissions set up, and a USB stick means finding a USB stick.

For a handful of files there is a quicker route: upload on one machine, type a 6-digit code on the other.

How to do it

1. On the Mac, open buddysend.com and drag your files onto the upload area. Up to 5 files, 100MB in total.
2. Note the 6-digit code.
3. On the Windows PC, open buddysend.com/receive and type the code.
4. Download. The files are removed from BuddySend afterwards.

It works the same in reverse, and the two machines don't need to be on the same network — one can be at home and the other in an office.

Why not the usual options

• Network file sharing (SMB): powerful, but you have to enable sharing, match workgroups, handle permissions and often a firewall. Fine for a permanent setup, heavy for one file.
• A USB stick: reliable, but needs the right ports and physical access to both machines. Modern MacBooks often need an adapter.
• Email to yourself: hits attachment limits around 25MB, and you must sign in to email on the other machine.
• Cloud storage: good when you want a lasting copy, but it means signing in on the receiving machine, which is awkward on a work PC.

Formats transfer unchanged

The file arrives exactly as it left. That matters for design and video work, where a re-compressed file is a wasted file. Note that macOS-specific extras — custom icons, resource forks, package contents — are not preserved, so zip a .app or .sketch bundle before sending if you need the structure intact.

FAQ

Do I need the same Apple ID or any account?

No. BuddySend needs no account on either side, and no Apple ID is involved at any point.

Do both computers need to be on the same Wi-Fi?

No. The transfer goes over the internet, so the Mac and the PC can be on different networks or in different countries.

Can I send from Windows to Mac as well?

Yes. The direction makes no difference: upload on either machine, type the code on the other.

What's the file size limit?

Up to 5 files per transfer, 100MB in total. For larger transfers, use a cloud service or an external drive.

Will my file be changed in any way?

No. The file is stored and returned byte for byte. Mac bundles such as .app or .sketch should be zipped first, since they are folders rather than single files.

Working with a phone instead? See send files from an iPhone to a Windows PC or from Android to a PC.