Top 3 Ways to Run Free File Sync on Mac: Complete Guide

Benefits of syncing files on Mac

Keeping your files synchronized across multiple devices is essential in today's digital age. Whether you're a student, a professional, or someone who simply wants to keep personal files organized, file syncing can help you ensure that your data is always up-to-date and accessible. If you sync files on Mac, you can enjoy the following benefits:

✔ Backup: Protect your data from loss by storing it in multiple locations.

✔ Accessibility: Access your files from any device, anywhere.

✔ Collaboration: Share and collaborate on files with family or team members.

✔ Efficiency: Save time by avoiding manual file transfers.

How to perform Mac free file sync step by step

In this part, I’ll show you 3 easy ways to sync files on Mac. Read and then pick one way that best fits your need.

👉 Method 1: Sync files via the best folder sync app for Mac👍
👉 Method 2: Sync files via Apple’s cloud service
👉 Method 3: Sync files via third-party cloud service

Method 1: Sync files via the best folder sync app for Mac

When it comes to the best folder sync app for Mac, AOMEI Backupper Mac is a standout choice. Its array of sync features caters to all your specific needs.

AOMEI Backupper Mac

Easy and Free Mac File Sync Software

• You can sync files from source to destination with Basic Sync or Mirror Sync. You can also sync files both sides with Two-Way Sync.

• You can select folders on the local disk, external hard drive, network location or NAS device as the sync source or destination. You can even sync files between two Macs.

• The program offers 5 schedule modes to help you automatically sync folders on Mac, including Once, Hourly, Daily, Weekly and Monthly.

• It runs smoothly on macOS 14/13/12/11/10.15.

Download Freeware
macOS 10.15 or later

100% Secure

Download AOMEI Backupper now and follow the instructions below to run free file sync on Mac.

Step 1. Install and launch AOMEI Backupper Mac. In the main interface, click New Task in the top-right corner.

Step 2. Select your desired sync type. Here I take Mirror Sync as an example.

Step 3. Click Select Sync Source to choose the folder that you want to synchronize.

Step 4. Click Select Sync Destination to choose another folder to receive the synced files. If you want to sync files to an external hard drive, connect it to your Mac beforehand.

Step 5. Click the clock icon to enable Schedule as necessary. Finally, click on the Sync button to begin file syncing.

Method 2: Sync files via Apple’s cloud service

Apple's cloud storage service – iCloud Drive allows you to store and access your files from any device with an internet connection. It is integrated with macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and accessible via a web browser. Learn how to sync files via iCloud Drive below.

Step 1. Go to System Preferences > Apple ID > iCloud, and check the box next to iCloud Drive.

Step 2. Open Finder > iCloud Drive. Simply drag and drop the files/folders you want to sync into the iCloud Drive.

Step 3. Files and folders in iCloud Drive are accessible from any device signed in with your Apple ID and with iCloud Drive enabled. You can also access these files by logging into the iCloud website (iCloud.com).

Method 3: Sync files via third-party cloud service

Dropbox is a popular cloud storage service that allows you to store, sync, and share files and folders across multiple devices, including desktop computers (Windows, macOS, and Linux) and mobile devices (iOS and Android). Follow the guidance below to sync files on Mac using Dropbox.

Step 1. Visit the Dropbox website and download the Mac app.

Step 2. Open the installer and follow the prompts to install Dropbox. Sign in with your account or create a new one.

Step 3. Dropbox creates a Dropbox folder in your home directory. Drag and drop files into this folder to start syncing.

Troubleshooting common file sync issues on Mac

Syncing files on a Mac can sometimes be tricky, with issues ranging from connectivity problems to software glitches. Here are some common issues and solutions.

Issue 1: Connectivity Problems

Syncing requires a stable internet connection. If your connection is unstable or slow, syncing may fail or be delayed.

👉 Solution: Check your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection. Restart your router if necessary.

Issue 2: Storage Limitations

Lack of storage space can prevent files from syncing.

👉 Solution: Regularly delete unnecessary files from your sync folder. Or you can consider upgrading to a paid plan.

Issue 3: File Conflicts

File conflicts occur when the same file is edited in different locations.

👉 Solution: Most sync services create conflict copies of the files. Review and resolve these conflicts manually by choosing which version to keep.

Verdict

There are 3 recommended Mac folder sync software to help you run free file sync on Mac. If you want to sync Mac files to cloud, choose iCloud Drive or Dropbox. However, the sync process can be affected by internet connection and you have limited free storage.

If you want to sync Mac files to another local folder or a folder on an external hard drive/network path/NAS device, choose AOMEI Backupper Mac. It ensures a smooth file transfer between two locations and offers advanced sync options, such as sync schedule and file filtering. Try it now to discover more!