Migrating SharePoint environments can be stressful. You want a SharePoint migration tool that is fast, safe, and reliable. The question is—should you go with Microsoft’s built-in tool or choose a third-party SharePoint migrator?
Let’s break down both options and help you make a confident decision.
What Is the Microsoft SharePoint Migration Tool?
Microsoft offers its own SharePoint Migration Tool (SPMT). It’s a free utility designed to move data from on-premises to SharePoint Online or OneDrive.
Key Features:
- Supports file shares and SharePoint Server
- Integrates with Microsoft 365
- Preserves basic metadata
- Offers PowerShell support
This tool works well for small migrations or basic needs.
Pros of Microsoft’s SharePoint Tool
1. It’s Free
No license cost makes it ideal for budget-constrained projects.
2. Direct Microsoft Integration
As an official Microsoft product, it works seamlessly within the 365 ecosystem.
3. Basic Metadata Retention
Keeps file names, dates, and structure during migration.
Limitations of Microsoft’s Tool
Despite its perks, SPMT has many limitations.
1. Limited Migration Scope
It’s designed for file migrations only—not full sites or complex libraries.
2. No Advanced Filters
You can’t exclude specific file types, metadata, or users.
3. Minimal Reporting
There’s limited visibility into errors or failed transfers.
4. No Scheduling or Automation
SPMT does not support advanced scheduling or bulk automation.
For larger projects, this can become a serious bottleneck.
What Are Third-Party SharePoint Migrators?
Third-party tools offer more robust features for SharePoint to SharePoint migration, Office 365 moves, and more.
These tools are built for enterprise-grade performance, bulk operations, and precision control.
Benefits of Using a Third-Party SharePoint Migration Tool
1. Full Site and Metadata Migration
Third-party tools migrate complete sites, including:
- Lists and libraries
- Permissions and version history
- Workflows and web parts
2. Advanced Filtering
You can include or exclude content based on:
- File type
- Date modified
- Folder structure
- User ownership
This allows cleaner, more controlled migrations.
3. Scheduling and Automation
Run migrations during off-hours or weekends. Schedule and repeat tasks with ease.
4. Real-Time Reporting
Get detailed logs, error messages, and success reports. Quickly fix and rerun any failed operations.
Popular Third-Party SharePoint Migration Tools
Let’s look at one of the top third-party solutions in this space.
Kernel Migration for SharePoint
Kernel Migration for SharePoint is a powerful tool trusted by IT professionals.
Key Features:
- Migrate from SharePoint to SharePoint (any version)
- Support for SharePoint Online, Teams, OneDrive
- Move entire sites or selected content
- Maintain metadata, permissions, and versioning
- Schedule migrations and monitor in real time
- Detailed reporting for easy auditing
Kernel offers better control, speed, and flexibility compared to Microsoft’s native tool.
When to Use Microsoft’s SharePoint Tool
Use SPMT if your migration is:
- Small-scale
- Involves basic document libraries only
- Requires no customization
- On a limited budget
It’s simple, free, and gets the job done for basic transfers.
When to Choose a Third-Party SharePoint Migrator
Choose a third-party SharePoint migration tool if you:
- Are migrating large amounts of content
- Need to move entire sites or tenant data
- Want full control over filters and scheduling
- Require real-time logs and reports
- Can’t afford downtime or broken permissions
The added features are worth the investment for smooth, stress-free migrations.
How to Decide Between the Two
Ask Yourself:
- How big is the migration?
- Do I need metadata, versions, and permissions preserved?
- Do I have time to monitor the process manually?
- Do I need automation or advanced filtering?
- Can I risk partial or failed migrations?
If you answer “yes” to most of these, a third-party SharePoint to SharePoint migration tool is your best option.
Conclusion: Choose the Tool That Matches Your Needs
Every SharePoint migration is unique. Some are simple. Others are massive and complex.
For basic needs, the Microsoft SharePoint Tool might be enough.
But for full-scale enterprise migration—especially SharePoint to SharePoint migration—you need more power.
Kernel Migration for SharePoint provides:
- Full content support
- Safe, structured transfers
- Real-time tracking
- Minimal downtime
The SharePoint migrator gets migrations done right—without stress, delays, or data loss. When precision matters, choose the smarter SharePoint migration tool.
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