If until now we talked about the iPad’s compatibility problems when it comes to playing videos and how to solve them, in this short guide we’re going to cover another important aspect: transferring them to the tablet.
Sure, you will say that this is what iTunes is for, but some users don’t actually want to use this program. Therefore, let’s see how to transfer videos to iPad without iTunes, in just a few simple moves.
The reasons why users don’t want to use iTunes for this operation are various. Well, some video formats aren’t actually compatible with iTunes, which means that you, as a user, will not be able to watch any video in your library from the tablet.
And it’s not that easy with iTunes-friendly videos either, in a format like MOV, for example. You must import them into the library, then sync everything with the iPad, something which takes a bit of time.
On the other side, you might be using a PC which doesn’t have Apple’s software installed and you really need to transfer some video files on the tablet. And the list of reasons could continue.
Therefore, let’s see how you can simplify this process, without even opening iTunes. Because yes, it can be done!
How to transfer videos to iPad using cloud storage
Sounds like a no-brainer, but not all iPad users have the technical background required to perform such operation.
By far the simplest method you can use to transfer video to iPad without iTunes, relying on cloud storage could take a bit more, especially if you have larger files. And you should totally be aware of this, especially if you’re in a hurry.
Basically, you need to decide on third-party storage options with iPad-compatible apps. Dropbox, Google Drive, or Microsoft’s OneDrive are some of the most popular options out there, offering just enough free space for your video needs.
In the end, it’s about how much storage space each of them offers, but the procedure is similar: install the apps on your PC and tablet, copy and paste the video file from your computer into cloud storage, then download it from the cloud on the tablet. Simple as that.
As a personal preference, I’m relying on Google Drive for this, since I have quite a few storage space over there, not to mention that it’s very easy to operate. But, in the end, it’s your decision.
How to transfer videos to iPad using email
Yes, this one is also dead simple and takes even less time than the previous method. If you want to transfer videos to iPad without iTunes, you can use a simple email account.
Simply choose the video you want to transfer and send it to yourself as an attachment. As soon as you receive it, download it on your iPad and the file will be available for watching locally. The biggest minus is that you can’t send very big files in a message, but at least it’s quick, free and easy.
How to transfer videos to iPad using a third-party app
Obviously, there are some apps able to do the job as well. Some of them offer loads of additional features, like WALTR, but their downside is that you need to pay for continuing using it, after just 14 days. And it doesn’t come for cheap either since the license is $29.95.
On the other side, there are also some alternatives, great for those who want to transfer videos to iPad for free. Specifically, I’m talking about iExplorer, an app with a user-friendly interface and very easy to understand. Still, in order to actually transfer video to iPad without iTunes using it, you also need a third-party video player.
We’ve already covered this part in our guide on how to play WMV files on iPad, so you can pick one of the players about which we talked over there and install it on your iPad. As for iExplorer, you need to install it on your PC.
Once you’re done installing both apps, these are the steps you need to follow:
- Plug your iPad into your PC. If you’re using one that’s not yours, you need to unlock your tablet and tap “Trust”
- Open iExplorer and wait for a few moments, until the iPad is automatically detected
- Browse for the files you want to transfer
- Go to Files > Apps and you will see the list of all the apps on your tablet
- Pick the folder of the video player you’ve just installed. If you opted from one in our guide, you should look for VLC, PlayerXtreme or KMPlayer
- In the folder of the video player, you should find a sub-folder, called Downloads. Open it
- Now, using the drag and drop function, move the movie you want to transfer, from your PC, in the Downloads folder
- Wait for a few moments, until the process is ready. Once it’s done, open your video player of choice and you should see the video file you’ve just added
- Select it and start to play it in-app
Wrap-up
This is how you can transfer videos to iPad without iTunes with ease. All of these three methods have the same outcome, but choosing one depends on how much time you have for this operation.
Let us know which one is your favorite and, of course, if you know alternatives to these, by dropping a few lines in the comments section below.