Cookie
Electronic Team uses cookies to personalize your experience on our website. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our cookie policy. Click here to learn more.

The list of best Mac sync software in 2024

SyncMate logo
Top choice
SyncMate 4.5 Rank based on 795+ users, Reviews(476)
Olga Weis Olga Weis Aug 30, 2020

Synchronization of macOS with several portable devices and online accounts can be a pain without the right tool. Keeping your macOS vital apps like iCal, Music, Address Book, photos, and other data in sync with other devices is the desire of most Mac users. It gives you the flexibility and the ability to stay on top of things no matter where you are and what devices you have at hand.

Before Mac OS X 10.7 (Lion), there were plenty of tools that relied on the Apple's Sync Services framework, but after it was deprecated, the situation on the market changed. The removal of Sync Service from macOS created a vacuum that so many third party developers tried to fill. In the process of filling the vacuum, the market was flooded with lots of solutions, not necessarily reliable ones. Only a few of them can sync data directly between macOS apps and other devices online and offline without hiccups.

Mac sync software

Quick Summary:

  1. The list of the most popular Mac synchronization software solutions
    1. SyncMate for Mac
    2. ChronoSync for Mac
    3. Synchronize! PRO
    4. GoodSync for Mac
    5. Resilio Sync
    6. SyncBack
    7. FreeFileSync
    8. Mozy Sync
    9. Syncovery
  2. How did we rate best Mac synchronization software?
  3. Online cloud services for synchronization of Mac
  4. The frequently asked questions about synchronization


I. The list of the most popular Mac synchronization software solutions

1. SyncMate for Mac

SyncMate logo
SyncMate Expert
Requirements: macOS 10.13+. 60.62MB free space. Version 8.7.527. (5 Dec, 2023). 4.5 Reviews(476)
Category: Utilities

We can definitely say that our top choice is SyncMate. This Mac synchronization software is renowned for its ability to sync data on macOS with multiple devices and online accounts. SyncMate can perform synchronization of various devices simultaneously and offers automatic background sync too.

Mac synchronization software

Devices/Accounts supported include iOS, Android devices, Mac computers, MTP and other mounted devices. iCloud, Dropbox, Google, Outlook, Office 365 Home and Business accounts even One Drive are all supported by SyncMate.

Sync options: SyncMate has an extensive sync option list when compared to other tools in this article. It syncs media files and folders with personal data. At the same time offering non-sync options that include mounting devices, SMS management, call history, and so many others. One of the popular options is data backup, which can be automated as well, so you never have to worry about losing any important information on any of your devices.

Pros:

• keeps accounts and devices in sync with macOS apps directly without any clouds;

• sophisticated and multi-device but with a really comprehensive interface at the same time;

• syncs over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB.

Cons:

• not a free solution;

• no PDF documentation.


Supported OS:

Mac, iOS, Android

SyncMac

Conclusion:

All in all, we have to say that SyncMate is probably the best Mac Folder sync software out there. Everything is completely easy to use, with a convenient interface that makes sync tasks the work of a few seconds. Compatibility is great, and it’s easy to sync not just files and documents, but contacts and message histories as well. You do have to pay for the full package, but it’s more than worth it.

Best sync software for Mac

Scroll to view more
Swipe tip
SyncMate
SyncMate
dr.fone
GoodSync
iPhoneTransfer
ChronoSync
TunesGo
SugarSync
Android Data Recovery
EaseUS MobiMover
AirDroid
MobiKin Assistant
MobileTrans
SyncGene
Syncovery
Get Backup Pro
Mac to Mac
Mac to Mac
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mac to Android
Mac to Android
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mac to iOS devices
Mac to iOS devices
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sync with cloud storages
Sync with cloud storages
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sync with Microsoft services
Sync with Microsoft services
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
iOS - Android
iOS - Android
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Backup devices
Backup devices
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
iTunes to device
iTunes to device
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AutoSync
AutoSync
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
macOS 10.15+
macOS 10.15+
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$39.95
$39.95
$139.95
$49.95
$49.95
$49.99
$69.95
7.49$ per month
$69.95
$59.95
2.99$ per month
$49.95
$39.95
$69.95
$34.90
$19.99
Try SyncMate for Mac
Download Free edition

2. ChronoSync for Mac

ChronoSync for Mac


ChronoSync is an interesting synchronization software because apart from the regular sync function, it also backs up and restores data.

Devices/Accounts supported include Apple devices only. Surprising yes! The only synchronization supported is between macOS and iOS devices. If you have Android devices then you might want to consider SyncMate or GoodSync.

Sync options: It can sync any file type between Apple devices. This synchronization software also handles backup like local, remote, bootable and even remote bootable backup.

Pros:

• good interface;

• multiple backup options incl. bootable.

Cons:

• no data compression;

• not always easy to restore backups.


Supported OS:

Mac, iOS


Conclusion:

This solution has a number of things to recommend it. Not only does it sync, but it also backs up, meaning that you can guarantee all your files will be safe. However, the obvious problem comes with compatibility. While it’s a useful Mac file sync software if you’re completely loyal to Apple, if you have an Android phone, you won’t be able to use it, which is a major drawback.

3. Synchronize! PRO

Synchronize! PRO


The name of this tool implies it is a synchronization tool but in reality, it is a backup and restoration tool, so be careful - first decide what type of software you need exactly.

Supported devices: You can backup Mac data to a file server, FireWire disk, and PowerBook with the intention of keeping files on both ends up to date. With Synchronize! PRO bootable backups to a disk image over a Network is possible. One interesting feature worth mentioning is that you can set backups to happen automatically or at a scheduled time.

Pros:

• can operate automatically;

• bootable backup options.

Cons:

• rather expensive.


Supported OS:

Mac, iOS


Conclusion:

This is a pretty handy Mac sync software, with a lot to offer. It offers the standard sync features, as well as backups to ensure your files are kept safe. However, you do have to spend a fair amount of money to get full usability. While the network feature is definitely useful, you may not want to spend that much on a sync tool if you don’t really need to.

4. GoodSync for Mac

GoodSync for Mac


This macOS synchronization software can sync, backup and restore data.

Accounts/Devices supported: computers, mobile devices, FTP, S3, GDocs, SkyDrive, DAV, etc. It has the option to automatically sync any file on your Mac with any computer, drive, or mobile devices. It can also backup data on drives, devices to FTP, S3, SkyDrive and others.

Sync options: It is important to accentuate that GoodSync only syncs folder to folder, not folder and macOS apps like iCal, iTunes or even photos. GoodSync can sync folders containing files among supported devices and accounts.

Pros:

• automated backup and sync options for folders and volumes;

• advanced support for remote data access.

Cons:

• narrow focus;

• dense, techie documentation;

• difficult interface, not for beginners.


Supported OS:

Mac, iOS, Android


Conclusion:

In many ways, this is a useful program, though it may not be for everyone. Compared to some of the other software we’ve looked at, GoodSync can often feel clunky and overly complicated. The other major problem is that it’s good at syncing folders, but useless when it comes to syncing between different programs. For that reason, you may want to look at some of the other options for the best sync software for Mac.

5. Resilio Sync

Resilio Sync


Resilio Sync (previously BitTorrent Sync) is a peer-to-peer synchronization tool. You might think of it as the analogue of Dropbox, but unlike the latter it is not just one folder on your computer, it is rather multiple folders that you pick yourself to be synchronized.

Accounts/Devices supported: Resilio Sync supports Android, iOS, Windows Phone, Amazon Kindle Fire mobile platforms as well as desktop operating systems like macOS, Windows and Linux, FreeBSD. It is also available for NAS.

Pros:

• safe and secure;

• great for large files;

• real-time synchronization.

Cons:

• no way to access files from a web browser;

• slight delays occasionally;

• poor tech support cases were reported.


Supported OS:

Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, Linux


Conclusion:

Resilio offers a lot of plus points. It’s a good sync software for Mac for moving large files between devices, and keeping them synchronized. However, the speeds could be a lot higher. Another issue is poor customer feedback regarding support. It may be better if you choose a different program to rely on.

6. SyncBack

SyncBack


You can back up and sync select files and folders, back up to FTP, compress files, and set other basic options with any version of SyncBack. There are other additional features available in SyncBackFree, SyncBack Lite, SyncBackSE, and SyncBackPro.

Accounts/Devices supported: sync files within the same network to another drive on your computer or a shared folder on a different computer. Or you can sync your files to online accounts like Dropbox or Google Drive.

Pros:

• ease of use and flexibility;

• safe sync.

Cons:

• not every version supports various OS types;

• can be quite pricey, if you need advanced possibilities.


Supported OS:

Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, Linux


Conclusion:

SyncBack offers all the options we’ve come to expect from a decent sync software Mac users can enjoy. It’s fairly versatile, though there have been issues reported with different MacOS systems. If you’re unsure whether it can support your device, you may want to rely on a different solution. It’s also not the cheapest option out there.

7. FreeFileSync

FreeFileSync


This is a folder comparison and synchronization application for creating backup copies for your files. The way FreeFileSync works is it compares versions of the file and only transfers the data that is missing, without moving the whole files and folders around.

Accounts/Devices supported: this is an open-source software available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. In addition to local file systems and network shares, the app can sync to FTP, FTPS, SFTP and MTP devices.

Pros:

• open source and free, which might be a disadvantage too;

• synchronization scheduling;

• automatic batch sync.

Cons:

• only syncs folders, not apps like Calendars or Contacts;

• in 2018 Norton considered FreeFileSync a malware and was blocking its installer.


Supported OS:

Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, Linux


Conclusion:

This is an ambitious piece of software, all the more appreciated because it’s open source and available completely free. It’s quicker than some other programs, because it focuses on adding missing data rather than complete files. However, in practical terms, the lack of any calendar or contact sync makes this less useful for syncing with a mobile device.

8. Mozy Sync

Mozy Sync


Mozy Sync is a data synchronization service for syncing files and folders across multiple computers. This app uses its servers to move your data around. There is also a Mozy mobile app and you can access your files from a web browser if you need to use a different computer.

Accounts/Devices supported: this cloud-based solution works for the computers with either Mac OS or Windows installed. Mobile app is available for iOS and Android devices.

Pros:

• great backup, recovery and remote sync tool;

• possibility to pause sync process anytime.

Cons:

• only offers one-way synchronization.


Supported OS:

Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, Linux


Conclusion:

There are a few positive sides about Mozy, though it isn’t the best sync app for Mac. It’s great for creating backups, that let you perform a complete recovery if necessary. However, the main drawback is the fact that syncing is only one way. Given that all the other programs we’ve reviewed offer two way sync, there’s really no reason to choose this program.

9. Syncovery

Syncovery


Syncovery is a synchronization and backup software helping you keep all your important documents safe no matter what happens to your machine.

Accounts/Devices supported: this software works with Windows, macOS computers, servers, notebooks, and online storage accounts. It also supports FTP, SSH, HTTP, WebDAV, Microsoft Azure, Amazon S3, Google Drive, OneDrive, SharePoint, DropBox, Box and others.

Pros:

• great for any level of user.

Cons:

• Advanced Mode offers advanced features but might seem expensive for some users.


Supported OS:

Mac, Windows, iOS, Android


Conclusion:

Syncovery is a pretty good choice on this list. Its versatility means that you are safe using it with just about any kind of device, and good usability means that it’s easy to get your head around. However, at a fairly high price, you might be better off saving on a cheaper program.

II. How did we rate best Mac synchronization software?


With the galore of options that you can find online it is still not guaranteed all those options are exactly what you need neither it means they will actually work. Everybody knows that macOS is a type of operating systems that can be easily synchronized with other macOSs-operating devices but not so well with third party ones. Things got even more complicated when Apple decided to no longer support their Sync Services some years back. This automatically meant that all the apps that could have been used for data transfer up until that point, stopped working. This made gathering a list of apps and compare them by functionality a lot more trickier, however, we provided you with the best ones. We made our best possible effort to choose the applications that stayed in stride and should satisfy your synchronization needs.

Key factors we considered while choosing best macOS synchronization software:

  • Functionality. When deciding on the very best app to support data transfer you need to take functionality into consideration. You won’t have to use many different apps to synchronize Mac to other devices if you choose one that supports transferring folders, personal data such as calendar events or contacts and media.
  • Flexibility. MacOS synchronization software can help smoothen a process that is complicated enough. For that you will also need a wide choice of transfer settings to go along.
  • OS support. Since macOS is constantly updated you will need an app that stays up to date with these updates and offers the best service.
  • App lifecycle. In order to take a good Mac sync software and turn it into the best possible tool you need constant improvements. The developers need to provide updates and new version so that the app stays up to date.

III. Online cloud services for synchronization of Mac

The 3 online cloud sync services discussed here are considered the best among numerous cloud sync services. They basically store data in the cloud.

The upside of these services is that you can access data stored in them from any device provided there is an internet connection. The downside of these services is that there is no direct interaction with Mac apps like iTunes or even synchronization of data like contacts or calendars. We selected iCloud, Dropbox, and SugarSync.

iCloud belongs to Apple and is the cloud storage platform for all Apple devices. iCloud allows you to store and manage personal data in iCal, Address Book, etc. directly in it. It is only available for Apple devices.

iCloud

Dropbox is a widely used cloud storage service. Most people choose this service because it offers free cloud space for data storage. Dropbox also allows sharing of stored data with others even if they don't have a Dropbox account. It supports Mac, iOS, PC and Android.

Dropbox

SugarSync shares some similarity with Dropbox, providing cloud storage space for data and folders transfer. The stored contents can be shared or removed from all PC's or Mac in the event of loss or theft. It is available for PC's, Androids and Mac.

SugarSync

Pros:

  • • Online solutions can be accessed from anywhere, on any device.
  • • No storage limitations.
  • • Flexible solution for businesses.

Cons:

  • • Slow uploads depending on internet connection.
  • • Potentially less dependable than a file saved on a disk.
  • • Online backup cannot be used to restore a crashed system.

Conclusion:

All in all, cloud services are a useful choice for many people. The main draw is the flexibility they offer, allowing you to reach your saved files from any device with an internet connection. They’re also useful due to the large amount of space on offer, and the fact that many of the biggest services are free. However, despite these benefits, they are still not the best Mac sync app. Especially if you are looking to move conversations, calendars and contact details from one device to another, you’re better off with a program like SyncMate, that has been designed specifically with these tasks in mind.

As we’ve seen, there are plenty of different options on offer for anyone looking for the best Mac folder sync software. Whether you’re looking for an online, cloud based solution, or downloadable software, there’s no shortage of options out there. While writing this list, we’ve tried to take into account some of the most important factors at play when you choose how you want to sync between your Mac and mobile devices. Covering cost, compatibility, extra features and ease of use, we’ve made an effort to give you everything you need to find the right sync solution for your needs.

That said, we’re more than happy to endorse SyncMate as the best Mac file sync software. It’s got a range of different features, covering straightforward file syncs, as well as extra features such as contact, calendar and conversation syncing. While you do need to invest to get the most out of it, you can still get a taste of what’s on offer with their free trial. And once you unlock the complete package, it’s the work of seconds to ensure that all your devices are always in sync, with the most important data shared between them.


IV. The frequently asked questions about synchronization

Well, it is up to you to decide, but we recommend you do. Having your important data synced on all devices that you use, makes your digital life easier. Having new contacts and calendar events updated everywhere as soon as you add them on a single device is extremely convenient to say the least. With a software like SyncMate you only need to connect and set up various devices once and the app will take over from there.
It should be! Choose the app wisely and only use trustworthy developers. SyncMate cares about your data safety and syncs data directly between your Mac and other devices or online storages omitting any third parties.
Yes, there is! Transferring data is basically taking a piece of it and moving from one place to another. You can move your data between computers, mobile devices, online storages, etc. Synchronizing data is different. Synchronization is when a piece of data is equally updated on both sides of sync process, and as a result you are getting the latest version of it on both of your devices as soon as you made changes.

SyncMate has every right to be considered the best sync software for Mac. Take a look at its key features:

  • SyncMate is powered by its own sync service and doesn't rely on any other frameworks.
  • SyncMate syncs apps and storages directly, which is a much safer practice.
  • SyncMate supports a huge variety of devices that wouldn't sync with each other otherwise.
Every app and service is different, but for example with SyncMate you might only need either USB, or Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection depending on the devices you synchronize.
A high-quality sync app should definitely be able to integrate with the apps and services you synchronize. This means if you are syncing your Address Book, the contacts will go into the corresponding app on a synced device, like your Contacts. Same goes for photos or calendars or similar.
An app like SyncMate is pretty versatile and additionally to Apple devices and accounts, it supports Microsoft services - Outlook online account, Office 365 editions and OneDrive.
SyncMate Expert
macOS 10.13+ , 60.62MB size
Version 8.7.527 (5 Dec, 2023) Release notes
Category: Utilities
Recent posts
Olga Weis 8 Oct at 16:58