Copy VSCode Extensions to New Computer Guide

November 11, 2025

Learn how to easily copy VSCode extensions to a new computer using built-in sync, extensions list export, or manual methods. Complete tutorial.

Copy VSCode Extensions to New Computer Guide

How to Copy VSCode Extensions to New Computer: Complete Guide

Moving to a new development machine doesn't mean losing your carefully curated Visual Studio Code environment. This comprehensive guide covers multiple methods to seamlessly copy VSCode extensions to your new computer, ensuring you maintain your productivity and development workflow without starting from scratch.

Understanding VSCode Extensions Migration

When you set up a new development machine, recreating your ideal coding environment can be time-consuming. Visual Studio Code extensions include language support, themes, debuggers, and productivity tools that you've customized over time. Fortunately, VS Code provides several built-in methods and manual approaches to transfer these extensions efficiently.

The extensions are typically stored in different locations depending on your operating system. On Windows, they're found in %USERPROFILE%\.vscode\extensions, on macOS in ~/.vscode/extensions, and on Linux in ~/.vscode/extensions. Understanding this structure helps with manual migration methods.

Method 1: Using Built-in Settings Sync

The easiest method to copy VSCode extensions to a new computer is using VS Code's built-in Settings Sync feature. This cloud-based approach automatically synchronizes your extensions, settings, keybindings, and snippets across multiple machines.

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. On your old computer:

    • Open VS Code and press Ctrl+Shift+P (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+Shift+P (macOS)
    • Type "Settings Sync: Turn On" and select it
    • Sign in with your Microsoft or GitHub account
    • Choose what to sync (ensure "Extensions" is selected)

  2. On your new computer:

    • Install VS Code and open it
    • Press Ctrl+Shift+P and type "Settings Sync: Turn On"
    • Sign in with the same account
    • VS Code will automatically download and install all your extensions

This method is ideal for ongoing synchronization between multiple development machines and ensures your environment stays consistent.

Method 2: Export and Import Extensions List

For a more controlled approach or when you don't want to use cloud sync, you can export your extensions list and reinstall them on the new machine.

Export Extensions from Old Computer

bash

Import Extensions on New Computer

bash

PowerShell Alternative (Windows)

powershell

This method gives you a backup file that you can version control or share with team members for consistent development environments.

Method 3: Manual Extension Folder Copy

For offline scenarios or when you need to preserve extension data, you can manually copy the extensions folder.

Locate and Copy Extension Directories

bash

Restore on New Machine

bash

After copying, restart VS Code. The editor should detect and load all the transferred extensions.

Solution Comparison and Best Practices

Each method has distinct advantages depending on your needs:

Settings Sync is perfect for regular synchronization and cloud-based workflows. It's the most convenient but requires internet access and a Microsoft/GitHub account.

Export/Import List provides a clean, version-controllable approach that ensures you get the latest versions of each extension. It's excellent for team environment standardization.

Manual Copy works offline and preserves exact extension versions and configurations, but may cause compatibility issues if the new machine has different VS Code versions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not checking extension compatibility with your new OS
  • Forgetting to sync extension settings and configurations
  • Attempting manual copy between different operating systems
  • Not verifying all extensions loaded correctly after migration

For comprehensive VS Code documentation, refer to the official VS Code documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer extensions between different operating systems?

While the Settings Sync method works cross-platform, manual folder copying between different operating systems (Windows to macOS, etc.) is not recommended due to potential binary incompatibilities. The export/import method is safer for cross-OS transfers.

What about extension settings and configurations?

The Settings Sync feature automatically transfers extension settings. For manual methods, you may need to separately backup your VS Code settings file (settings.json) and keybindings file.

How do I handle extensions that require additional dependencies?

Some extensions like Python, Go, or Docker tools require runtime environments. After transferring extensions, ensure you install the necessary Node.js, Python, or other language runtimes on your new machine.

Can I selectively transfer only certain extensions?

Yes, with the export/import method, you can edit the extensions list file to include only the extensions you want to transfer. Remove any lines containing extensions you don't need.

What if some extensions fail to install on the new computer?

Check the VS Code developer console for error messages. Some extensions may be deprecated, incompatible with your new VS Code version, or require specific platform dependencies.

Conclusion

Successfully copying VSCode extensions to a new computer is essential for maintaining developer productivity. Whether you choose the automated Settings Sync, the controlled export/import approach, or manual folder copying, you now have multiple reliable methods to transfer your development environment. The key is selecting the method that best fits your workflow requirements and ensuring all your essential tools and configurations make the transition smoothly.

For more advanced VS Code customization tips, explore the VS Code API documentation to understand how extensions work under the hood.