How to Transfer Files from Flash Drive or USB to iPhone/iPad

With cell phones more and more computers alike, people are able to do quite a lot of things with their iPhone and iPad. On some occasions, users would have the need of transferring files to their iPhone or iPad, usually, they’re from USB or a flash drive. You may first ask: Can I transfer files from USB stick to iPad? Absolutely Yes! But it is not as easy as you imagine. Previously, iTunes seems to be the only choice to finish this task, but it is not the perfect one because you may face the data loss risk. And some users may even wonder about the ways to transfer files from USB to iPad without computer.

So here in this guide, we will introduce you several safe and easy ways to transfer files from USB to iPad or transfer files from flash drive to iPad, even without using a computer. And all these methods also support iPhone. So if you are interested, just read on to learn how to transfer files from USB to iPhone/iPad.

You can also follow the guide to transfer files from USB to iPhone/iPad: How to Backup iPad to USB/Flash Drive >

Transfer Files from USB to iPad without Computer

How do I transfer files from USB to iPad Pro? The Files app on iPad must be a good choice to transfer from USB to iPad, especially for those who don’t want to use computer. You can use the Files app on your iPhone/iPad to move files from an external flash drive or USB. With this method, the only thing you need is a Lightning to USB adapter, you can buy it at Apple online store. If you got a Lightning to USB adapter by your hand, then follow the guide below to see the steps to transfer files from USB to iPad.

Step 1. Connect USB-C-based external drives directly to your device via the USB adapter.

Step 2. Open the Files app on your iPhone/iPad. Tap Browse in the lower right corner.

Step 3. Here you will see your drive in the “Locations” section, tap it to see all the files and folders on your drive.

Step 4. On your iPhone/iPad, create a new folder for the files you want to transfer.

Step 5. Then back to the Location page, tap to open your flash drive folder.

Step 6. Hold and select the files you want to transfer, tap “Move” at the bottom.

Step 7. Here you could choose the destination of the selected files, find the new folder you just created, and tap copy. The files are transferred to the folder.

In addition to iPad, this method also works well on iPhone. Therefore, you can also try this way to transfer files from USB to iPhone without computer easily and quickly.

Transfer Files from Flash Drive to iPad wiith iPhone Transfer Tool

How to transfer files from flash drive to iPad? If you think the method above is a little bit complicated, you can also try some third-party tools. AnyTrans is a professional Mac/PC-based iOS data transfer tool that can help you put the important iPhone/iPad/iPod contents correctly and quickly. Here are the reasons why you should choose this tool.

Besides, AnyTrans can also help you transfer data from iPhone to iPhone, Android to iPhone, or iPhone to computer.

How about giving it a try? Click here to download AnyTrans and then follow the steps below to learn how to transfer files from USB to iPad or how to transfer files from flash drive to iPad.

Step 1. Open AnyTrans > Plug in your iDevice and flash drive > Click on Add Content button.

Step 2. Choose your flash drive > Select the files you want to transfer > Click on Open.

You can also select the specific file type to add content to your iDevice. Here we take books for example.

Step 1. Click “More” to enter the category managing page > Click on Books.

Step 2. Click on “+” button > Select the books stored in flash drive > Click on Open.

Here is a tip about data transfer you may like: How to Transfer Data from Android to iPhone/iPad >

Transfer Files from USB to iPad with iCloud Drive

If you can use computer, then iCloud drive would also be a good way for you to make iPad copy files from USB stick. And all you need is your computer and iCloud account, which would be very easy. So now let’s see the steps to transfer files from USB to iPad.

Transfer Files from USB to iPad with iCloud Drive:

1. Launch iCloud on your computer > Click and enable iCloud Drive > Transfer files you want to iCloud Drive.
2. Open Files app on your iPad > Select iCloud Drive option.
3. You can see the files you transferred just now. Tap on Download to move these files to your iPad.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I connect a USB port to my iPad?

You cannot connect USB to your iPad directly. To do so, you need a Lightning to USB adapter, and you can buy one at Apple Store. But you should note that not all iPad are supported. Therefore, before you buy an adapter, you should first check your iPad model according to the Apple instructions.

How to transfer files from iPad to USB drive?

AnyTrans and Files app can help you complete this task. And if you want to transfer photos, then you can also use the Photos app directly. For a detailed guide, you can read: How to Transfer Files from iPhone/iPad to USB Flash Drive >

The Bottom Line

That’s all about the ways to transfer files from usb to iPad. And you can choose to use or not use computer to complete this task. As you can see, AnyTrans can help you transfer files from the flash drive to iPhone/iPad without effort. It can manage your device contents in a smart way. Just download AnyTrans and try it for free now >