FreeFileSync
FreeFileSync: A free desktop folder-sync tool with flexible modes and focused cloud connections. Ranked #13 of 28 in File Sync Software by our editors (6.2/10); pricing: Free plan · paid from €20; best for desktop users wanting free local and cloud folder sync.
At a glance
- Editor score6.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan · paid from €20
- Best forDesktop users wanting free local and cloud folder sync
- Free planYes
- Sync methodCloud
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Choose two-way, mirror, or update synchronization modes.
- Detect moved and renamed files; version deleted or overwritten files.
- Automate runs with batch jobs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Where it doesn't
- Standard and Donation Editions are limited to private use.
- Cloud connections focus on Google Drive, FTP, FTPS, and SFTP.
- Business Edition is a one-time €20 per-device purchase with one year of updates.
Our verdict on FreeFileSync
FreeFileSync is desktop software for comparing and synchronizing folders, aimed at people who want control over local backups and selected cloud or network locations. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and supports local drives, network shares, mobile devices over MTP, Google Drive, FTP, FTPS, and SFTP. Its synchronization choices cover two-way sync, mirroring, and updating a backup, making it relevant for solo users and small teams with straightforward folder workflows.
The main appeal is control over how changes are handled. FreeFileSync compares folders and transfers only the data needed to synchronize differences, and it can detect moved or renamed files and folders. Filters let users include or exclude files, while file versioning can preserve deleted or overwritten files. Batch jobs can be saved for scheduled or automated synchronization. These capabilities make it more than a basic copy utility, but its cloud connections are focused rather than broad: buyers whose workflow depends on a wider range of cloud services may prefer a product with a broader integration ecosystem.
The Standard Edition is free for private use, and the Donation Edition is also for private use, with the donation amount set by the user. Commercial and government use requires the Business Edition, priced at €20 per device as a one-time payment; it includes unlimited use of that edition and software updates for one year. That distinction matters for organizations budgeting across multiple devices. Community resources, email, and documentation are support channels. Choose FreeFileSync for desktop folder comparison, backup modes, and local-to-cloud sync with its supported connections; look elsewhere if broader cloud coverage is central to the decision.
FreeFileSync pricing
All 3 FreeFileSync plans and prices →
FreeFileSync fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Sync method | Cloud |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Selective sync | Yes |
| Version history | Not verified |
| Max file size | Not verified |
| Encryption at rest | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Email, Docs · 24/7 |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 4 integrations: Google Drive, FTP, FTPS, SFTP |
| Pricing | Free plan · paid from €20 (source) |
| Website | freefilesync.org |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
FreeFileSync integrations
FreeFileSync lists 4 integrations on its own site.
- Google Drive
- FTP
- FTPS
- SFTP
Alternatives to FreeFileSync
- SeafileA self-hosted sync platform with virtual-drive access, sharing controls, and encrypted libraries.9.0
- ownCloudFlexible self-hosted and hosted file sync, with open-source access and enterprise options.8.2
- Nextcloud HubFile sync and sharing sit alongside chat, office editing, and project tools.7.7
See all FreeFileSync alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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