SyncBack
ActiveOverview
SyncBack is a Windows backup and synchronization program that uses profiles to define source and destination folders for backing up, syncing, or restoring files. It supports manual and automatic runs, including periodic intervals and change detection. Targeted at home and professional users needing reliable file backups to local drives, external media, or other locations.
Key Features
- Profile Creation - Stores settings for folders or files to backup or synchronize.
- Manual Run - Select profile and click Run or use Ctrl+R to execute immediately.
- Periodic Scheduling - Runs profiles at set intervals like every 15 minutes in background.
- On Changes Detection - Automatically detects and replicates file creations, modifications, or deletions.
- Simulated Run - Tests profile without copying files to verify configuration.
- Intelligent Synchronization - Tracks changes since last run to handle deletions, creations, or modifications.
- Pause and Stop - Controls running profiles with pause, stop, or continue icons.
- Group Profiles - Combines multiple profiles into groups for batch execution.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| SyncBack Free | Free | Basic backup, sync, and restore for home users. |
| SyncBackPro | Paid | Advanced features including paid Pro version capabilities. |
Platforms & Requirements
Runs on Windows, including Windows 10 as shown in tutorials. Supports portable use with environment variables for paths. No support indicated for macOS, Linux, or mobile platforms.
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Local drives
- External USB drives
- CDRW and CompactFlash media
- Environment variables for paths
- Scheduled tasks
- Group profile execution
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| Macrium Reflect Free | Focuses on disk imaging rather than file-level sync and backup. |
| rsync | Command-line tool for Unix-like systems, less GUI-oriented than SyncBack. |
Reputation
SyncBack is regarded as a reliable freeware option for Windows file backups and syncs, with users praising its profile-based simplicity and scheduling.26 The free version suffices for basic needs, while Pro adds advanced features.2 Some note limitations in fully portable environments without path adjustments.7
Sources (9)
- https://www.2brightsparks.com/resources/articles/how-to-run-a-syncback-profile.html
- https://www.rockblotter.com/DijaKnowThat/using-syncback-for-your-backups-part-1-creating-a-profile/
- https://www.2brightsparks.com/syncback/help/creatingyourfirstprofile.htm
- https://www.2brightsparks.com/syncback/help/creatingaprofile.htm
- https://www.2brightsparks.com/syncback/help/runningaprofile.htm
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgKJrEHKFgU
- https://www.portablefreeware.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=17007
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVBL0cjuD9k
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xy_jaa7SuBE