chatGPT says option 2 is better

Option 2 is typically better because it preserves the existing database schema, data, and migration history, ensuring consistency. You simply dump the full database (schema + data) from the old server and restore it on the new one, then update Django settings to connect to the new database. This approach avoids complications with regenerating migrations and ensures Django recognizes the current database state.

Option 1 involves deleting migration files, recreating the schema with makemigrations and migrate, and importing only the data. While it provides a clean schema, it can be error-prone, especially for complex data relationships, and removes migration history, which may cause tracking issues later.

Choose Option 2 for established projects with significant data and synchronized migrations. Use Option 1 only if the migration files are problematic or outdated, and you’re confident in handling potential data integrity issues.