Frustrated with backup and restore info

[AC Question]

I switched from an Iphone to a Nexus 5 last year. I used to have a one stop shopping backup system for the Iphone - plug it into the USB on my Mac laptop with Itunes open, hit Sync, and everything - apps, music, data, contacts etc. would be synced, backed up and later, easily restored if nec.

I have been looking for something similar on my new Nexus 5. I have installed Android File Transfer on my Mac. Every thread on line that I have searched, including in this forum, talk about rooting, Helium, Mybackup Pro, SD cards , and use language that as a mere user with at least some degree of tech saviness, can't understand, or won't work on my Nexus (no external SD card). When I open ATF on the Mac, with the Nexus plugged in, there is a list of files that I don't understand, and no listing for several apps that I have bought.

Is there truly no equivalent to the simple Apple system in Android? If not, would this work if, say, I lost my Nexus or wanted to upgrade? ---- 1) Restore settings using Backup my Data and Automatic Restore in my Google account, then 2). Re-download apps I have already installed and paid for from the Google Play store? Or any other suggestions?

Sorry if this appears stupid, but I want to be able to do something that should be a no-brainer, on a system that I otherwise prefer to the Iphone.

Thanks, Richard

 

[lizardchest]

I haven't tried this, but iTunes for Android – Manage Your Android Contents Effortlessly may work for what you want.