Top Syncthing Alternatives for Secure File Synchronization
In an age of increasing security concerns, privacy-focused tools like Syncthing have gained notoriety among the tech crowd. The app securely synchronizes files across computers and mobile devices. However, as excellent as Syncthing is, you might be looking for a Syncthing alternative due to specific feature needs, platform preferences, or a desire for a different approach to file synchronization. There are some great alternatives, most being open-source like Syncthing, which is important to many developers as the source code is always available to check for security holes. Others may prefer to put their trust in well-established commercial tools. Some alternatives require a decentralized server but you can easily filter for peer-to-peer tools to find the closest matches. Most tools have desktop apps for Mac, Windows and Linux. Many also provide Android or iPhone apps as well.
Excellent Syncthing Alternatives
Whether you prioritize open-source transparency, robust cloud integration, or specific backup features, these Syncthing alternatives offer compelling solutions for keeping your files in sync and secure across all your devices.
GoodSync
GoodSync is a high-end professional, Freemium file backup and synchronization software. It automatically backs up and syncs your files between any computer, mobile device, or drive, with or without using the cloud. GoodSync offers robust file-sync capabilities, supporting platforms like Mac, Windows, Android, iPhone, and more, with features such as End-to-End Encryption, Real-time sync, and direct P2P sync, making it a strong Syncthing alternative for those seeking comprehensive control and professional features.
Nextcloud
Nextcloud is a Free and Open Source Syncthing alternative that offers on-premises file sync and online collaboration technology. It provides a secure home for all your data, combining the convenience of consumer-grade solutions with business-level security, privacy, and control. Available on Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, Android, and iOS, Nextcloud boasts features like self-hosting, two-factor authentication, end-to-end encryption, and extensive customization through plugins, making it ideal for those who prioritize data sovereignty.
MEGA
MEGA is a Freemium cloud storage and file hosting service that emphasizes privacy with end-to-end encryption. As a Syncthing alternative, it provides a "Secure Collaboration" feature and is available across a wide range of platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, Android, and iOS. Key features include AES encryption, cloud sync, encrypted backups, and selective synchronization, making it a good choice for users who need secure cloud-based file management.
Resilio Sync
Resilio Sync is a Freemium Syncthing alternative that utilizes secure, distributed (P2P BitTorrent) technology to sync files directly between devices, bypassing the cloud. It's known for fast, intelligent file transfers and can even operate on local networks without internet access. Available on Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS, Resilio Sync offers features like peer-to-peer file-sync, decentralization, and selective synchronization, appealing to users who prefer direct device-to-device transfers.
FreeFileSync
FreeFileSync is a Freemium folder comparison and synchronization software that helps manage backup copies of important files by transferring only the necessary data. It is free on Windows, Linux, and macOS, with an Open Source version for Linux. This Syncthing alternative supports a variety of platforms and offers features like comparative analysis, folder comparison, portable mode, and support for SFTP, making it a powerful tool for precise file synchronization and backup.
rsync
rsync is a Free and Open Source Syncthing alternative primarily for Unix-like systems, known for efficiently synchronizing files and directories using delta encoding to minimize data transfer. It supports platforms like Linux, BSD, and Cygwin, offering features such as file-by-file encryption, command-line interface, and scheduled backups. rsync is an excellent choice for advanced users and system administrators who require robust and customizable synchronization capabilities.
Cryptomator
Cryptomator provides transparent, client-side encryption for your cloud storage, protecting documents from unauthorized access. The desktop version is Free and Open Source, ensuring transparency, while mobile apps are Freemium. Available on Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iPhone, Cryptomator is a strong Syncthing alternative for privacy-focused users, offering features like end-to-end encryption, AES encryption, and user-friendly interface for securing files before they reach the cloud.
MediaFire
MediaFire is a Freemium cloud storage and file sharing service focused on simplicity and unlimited downloads, making it a straightforward Syncthing alternative for basic file hosting needs. It provides direct access to files without wait times and allows simultaneous downloads. Available on Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, Android, and iPhone, MediaFire primarily offers cloud storage with unlimited bandwidth, appealing to users who need a simple platform for sharing and accessing files.
Seafile
Seafile is a Freemium and Open Source file hosting software system that stores files on a central server and synchronizes them with personal computers and mobile devices. As a robust Syncthing alternative, it supports platforms like Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, Android, and iOS. Key features include file versioning, encrypted sync, file sharing, and team collaboration, making it suitable for both individual and business users seeking a self-hosted or cloud-based synchronization solution.
SyncTrayzor
SyncTrayzor is a Free and Open Source wrapper for Syncthing specifically designed for Windows. It enhances the Syncthing experience by allowing its window to be hidden in the tray area and includes a built-in web browser for management. While not a direct Syncthing alternative in functionality, it is an excellent companion tool that improves the usability of Syncthing on Windows, offering features like portable mode, real-time sync, and selective synchronization, ideal for existing Syncthing users.
Ultimately, the best Syncthing alternative depends on your specific needs, whether you prioritize peer-to-peer syncing, robust cloud features, or the flexibility of open-source solutions. Explore these options to find the perfect fit for your secure file synchronization requirements.