Best 3 Mac Sync Software: Pros & Cons & Tutorial

What is Mac sync software used for?

Mac sync software is a specialized tool that allows users to synchronize data across multiple devices, ensuring that files, apps, and settings are consistent and up to date in different locations. You may need Mac folder sync software in the following situations:

• File Synchronization: Keeps files and folders in sync across multiple devices, such as between a Mac and an iPhone, iPad, or another Mac. This ensures that the latest version of a file is available on all synced devices.
• Backup: Automatically backs up important files to cloud storage or another device, providing a safeguard against data loss.
• Collaboration: Allows multiple users to work on the same files or documents simultaneously, with changes being synced in real-time.
• App Data Syncing: Syncs data from specific apps, such as note-taking or task management apps, so that you can continue working from any device without missing a beat.

Top 3 Mac file sync software solutions

Here I’ll introduce 3 best free sync software for Mac: iCloud, AOMEI Backupper Mac and FreeFileSync. Compare their features and choose the best solution as per your need.

👉 1. iCloud 👉 2. AOMEI Backupper Mac🔥 👉 3. FreeFileSync 👉 Example: How to copy files from Mac to external drive

1. iCloud

Apple’s iCloud is the go-to option for most Mac users, and for good reason. As a built-in solution, it offers seamless integration with macOS and other Apple devices. iCloud automatically syncs your photos, documents, app data, and more, ensuring that everything is up to date across your iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Key Features:

• File Synchronization: iCloud Drive lets you store and access your files from any Apple device.
• Photo Library: Keeps your photos and videos up to date across all your devices.
• Backup: Automatic backups of your iOS devices make restoring data easy.
• Find My: Helps locate lost devices and shares locations with friends and family.

Pros	Cons
✔ Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. ✔ Automatic syncing with minimal setup required. ✔ Secure storage with end-to-end encryption.	✖ Limited free storage (5GB), with paid plans required for more space. ✖ Primarily designed for Apple devices, with limited support for non-Apple platforms.

2. AOMEI Backupper Mac

AOMEI Backupper Mac is a robust sync tool designed for Mac devices. It enables you to automatically sync files and folders between various locations, such as from Mac to external hard drive, from Mac to NAS device, and from Mac to Mac, etc.

Key Features:

• Multiple Sync Modes: Sync files from source to destination with Basic Sync or Mirror Sync. You can also sync files both sides with Two-Way Sync.
• Automatic Sync: Offer 5 schedule modes to help you sync folders automatically, including Once, Hourly, Daily, Weekly and Monthly.
• File Filtering: Include or exclude specific file/folder types from the sync task.

Pros	Cons
✔ Sync files between Mac and various locations. ✔ Automatic folder sync without human intervention. ✔ User-friendly interface with easy-to-navigate options.	✖ Available for Mac devices only.

3. FreeFileSync

FreeFileSync is a free and open-source tool that provides a reliable solution for syncing files and folders between devices. It’s particularly appealing to users who want a powerful tool without the cost, making it an excellent option for both personal and professional use.

Key Features:

• Real-Time Sync: Sync files automatically in real-time as changes occur.
• Mirror and Two-Way Sync: Offers flexible sync options, including two-way syncing and mirroring.
• Versioning: Keeps copies of deleted or overwritten files, allowing you to recover old versions.
• Cross-Platform: Available on macOS, Windows, and Linux.

Pros	Cons
✔ Completely free and open-source, with no ads or limitations. ✔ Supports a wide range of sync configurations. ✔ Simple yet powerful interface.	✖ Lacks some advanced features found in paid software. ✖ Interface might not be as polished as other sync tools.

Example: How to copy files from Mac to external drive

It’s a common case to copy files from Mac to external drive. Learn how to do it with AOMEI Backupper Mac as follows.

Prerequisites:

• Connect the external drive to your Mac via USB or Thunderbolt.
• AOMEI Backupper only supports an external hard drive formatted as exFAT. If your external drive is in other formats, format it as exFAT in advance.
• Download and install AOMEI Backupper on your Mac.

Step 1. Run AOMEI Backupper. In the main interface, click New Task in the top-right corner.

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

Step 3. Click Select Sync Source to choose the folder that contains the files you want to transfer.

Step 4. Click Select Sync Destination to choose the external drive to receive the synced files.

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

Verdict

This page introduces the best 3 Mac sync software to you - iCloud, AOMEI Backupper Mac and FreeFileSync.

• If you want to sync and access your files from any Apple device, choose iCloud.
• If you want to sync files between Mac and other storage device (external hard drive, USB flash drive, NAS device, etc.), choose AOMEI Backupper Mac.
• For those who require cross-platform support (macOS, Windows, and Linux), choose FreeFileSync.

Each of these solutions offers unique benefits, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your syncing requirements.