Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

FreeFileSync VS Cyberduck

Compare FreeFileSync VS Cyberduck and see what are their differences

FreeFileSync logo FreeFileSync

FreeFileSync is a free open source data backup software that helps you synchronize files and folders on Windows, Linux and macOS.

Cyberduck logo Cyberduck

A libre FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, S3, Backblaze B2, Azure & OpenStack Swift browser.
  • FreeFileSync Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-24
  • Cyberduck Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-12

FreeFileSync features and specs

  • Free and Open Source
    FreeFileSync is freely available without any cost and its source code can be inspected, modified, and enhanced by anyone.
  • Cross-Platform
    The software is available for multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it versatile for users across different platforms.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The application features an intuitive, easy-to-use graphical interface that simplifies the process of setting up and running backups and syncs.
  • Advanced Sync Options
    FreeFileSync offers advanced options like real-time sync, versioning, and mirror sync, giving users flexibility in how they manage their files.
  • High Performance
    The software is optimized for speed and efficiency, enabling quick synchronization and backup processes even for large directories.
  • Robust Error Handling
    FreeFileSync has robust error handling and recovery features, ensuring data integrity and reliability during file operations.

Possible disadvantages of FreeFileSync

  • Limited Cloud Integration
    FreeFileSync offers limited integration with cloud storage services, which may not be sufficient for users heavily reliant on cloud platforms.
  • Potentially Complex for Novices
    While the interface is user-friendly, some of the advanced options and settings may be overwhelming for new or inexperienced users.
  • Donation Requests
    The software occasionally prompts users to donate, which some may find intrusive or annoying despite being free to use.
  • No Automated Scheduling in Free Version
    Automated scheduling is not available in the free version, requiring users to manually trigger synchronization or purchase the donation edition for this feature.
  • Community Support
    Being open-source, the primary support channel is community forums, which may not offer the same level of assistance as dedicated customer service.

Cyberduck features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    Cyberduck features a clean and intuitive interface that makes it easy for users to navigate and manage files across different cloud storage services and servers.
  • Wide Protocol Support
    The software supports a variety of protocols including FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, Amazon S3, OpenStack Swift, and Backblaze B2, making it versatile for different needs.
  • Open Source
    Cyberduck is open-source, which means it is freely available and continuously improved by a community of developers.
  • Integration with External Editors
    Cyberduck allows seamless integration with various external editors, enabling users to edit files directly on the server.
  • Bookmark Management
    The application offers robust bookmark management, allowing users to easily save and organize frequently accessed locations.
  • Strong Security Features
    Cyberduck includes strong security features such as support for SSH keys, two-factor authentication, and encrypted transfers with TLS/SSL.

Possible disadvantages of Cyberduck

  • Performance Issues
    Some users have reported performance issues, such as slow transfer speeds and occasional freezes, especially when handling large files.
  • Resource Intensive
    Cyberduck can be resource-intensive, consuming a considerable amount of system memory and CPU, which can affect the performance of other applications.
  • Limited Support for Automation
    Unlike some other file transfer tools, Cyberduck lacks extensive built-in scripting or automation capabilities, which could be a drawback for power users looking to automate file operations.
  • Complex Initial Setup
    For users who are not familiar with the protocols supported, the initial setup and configuration can be confusing and time-consuming.
  • Occasional Stability Issues
    Some users have experienced occasional stability issues, including unexpected crashes or connection drops during transfers.

Analysis of FreeFileSync

Overall verdict

  • Overall, FreeFileSync is a highly regarded file synchronization and backup solution. Its combination of powerful features, user-friendly interface, and low cost (free) makes it a popular choice for individuals and small businesses looking to manage their file synchronization needs.

Why this product is good

  • FreeFileSync is considered good by many users because of its robust feature set, ease of use, and the fact that it is open source. It offers features such as real-time synchronization, support for multiple platforms, and the ability to handle large files and numerous files efficiently, which makes it a versatile tool for personal and professional use.

Recommended for

    FreeFileSync is recommended for users who need a reliable and efficient way to sync files across devices or create consistent backups. It is ideal for both casual users who need a straightforward backup solution and more technical users who require advanced features and customization.

FreeFileSync videos

Simple, Fast, Automated File Backup [FREE] | 2020 [FreeFileSync]

More videos:

  • Review - FreeFileSync: Tips and Tricks
  • Review - FreeFileSync: RealTimeSync
  • Review - FreeFileSync: Folder Comparison and Synchronization

Cyberduck videos

How to Use Cyberduck FTP Client

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to FreeFileSync and Cyberduck)
File Sharing And Backup
100 100%
0% 0
FTP Client
0 0%
100% 100
Backup And Disaster Recovery
Cloud Storage
57 57%
43% 43

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare FreeFileSync and Cyberduck

FreeFileSync Reviews

15 Best Rclone Alternatives 2022
As a result, FreeFileSync helps speed up backup procedures by comparing source and target folders and just copying what is needed rather than copying everything. Additional synchronization options are available via the command line just like with rclone.
The 5 Best File Syncing Apps
FreeFileSync is useful for individuals and businesses for comparing multiple folders and synchronizing folders. It provides a robust backup solution. Choose to sync folders in real time, sync on a schedule, or run the sync program at startup.
Review of the File Synchronization Tools
FreeFileSync is a folder comparison and synchronization software, which can create and manage backup copies of all important files. FreeFileSync does not need to copy every file every time but determines the difference between the source folder and the destination folder and transfers only the minimum amount of data required. FreeFileSync is open source software, which can...
8 best Windows 10 file sync software
User feedback: “After wasting $40+ dollars on a competitor’s product, I tried out Freefilesync. FreefileSync was able to compare hundreds of thousands of files […] in 10 minutes, which was taking the competitor’s product over 3 hours.”
12 Free File and Folder Synchronization Tools for windows
Enhanced for maximum performance, FreeFileSync is an open source tool that assists you to sync files and folders for different operating systems like, Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. It comes with a simplified interface and offers an optimized usability. Using this tool you can compare data by date, size or content. You simply need to drag and drop the folders you want to...
Source: thegeekpage.com

Cyberduck Reviews

10 Best FTP Clients for WordPress Users (Mac and Windows)
Cyberduck doesn’t provide support for Linux, but Mac and Windows users find it rather simple to use and fast for transferring files to and from local and remote locations. Feel free to download the FTP client from the Cyberduck website or you have options for downloads on the Microsoft and Mac App Stores.
Source: kinsta.com
15 Best Rclone Alternatives 2022
Furthermore, Cyberduck integrates with Cryptomator – one of the rclone alternatives mentioned earlier. With the Cryptomator integration, you get access to extra features like filename encryption and file content encryption.
7 Best FileZilla Alternatives to Use in 2022
Cyberduck offers a clean user interface which is very easy to use. Most of the web developers use Cyberduck FTP client. However, it is recommended for Mac users, which can be accessed for free. Using this app is completely free, and the users can donate to developers if they want to. This program works on Mac as well as Windows OS.
Source: techdator.net
6 FileZilla Alternatives for Safe File Transfers
While managing files can be challenging, searching for files with Cyberduck is easy and viewing them in Quick Look is as simple as pressing the spacebar. Cyberduck is also compatible with external editors, so you can open and edit files in any third-party editor. Whether you prefer TextWrangler, TextEdit, or Sublime Text, you’ll still be able to edit your files.
7 FileZilla Alternatives: What Type of FTP Client Are You Looking for?
Users today, like Cyberduck because it has a more modern look and is compatible with cloud services. While it is easy to use, Cyberduck doesn’t leave out the basics like search, resume, and drag & drop file management. Cyberduck is free to download and use, but they do ask for donations to help continue developing and supporting the product.

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, FreeFileSync should be more popular than Cyberduck. It has been mentiond 204 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

FreeFileSync mentions (204)

  • Ask HN: What project do you donate to?
    Not regularly, but I have donated to: FreeFileSync, an excellent file sync utility within a network. https://freefilesync.org/ StemRoller, separate stems (e.g., voice) from songs. https://www.stemroller.com/ John's Background Switcher, shuffle wallpapers from various sources https://johnsad.ventures/software/backgroundswitcher/ Wikipedia Foundation Etc. - Source: Hacker News / 12 days ago
  • Ask HN: What Underrated Open Source Project Deserves More Recognition?
    FreeFileSync https://freefilesync.org/ I have been a happy user for years and have made a donation too. - Source: Hacker News / about 1 year ago
  • Which synchronization tool are you using together with the pCloud Crypto Folder?
    FreeFileSync messed up my pCloud database a couple times at first (causing disappearing files in the Crypto Folder, mirroring of the same files over and over again). Pcloud support provided an easy way to fix the database. To fix the root cause, one needs to exclude FreeFileSync's temporary files from the backup: pCloud Drive > Settings > Backup/Sync Exclusions, exclude sync.ffs_lock and *.ffs_tmp. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Why are file backups so slow on Windows 11?
    As per Apprehensive_Arm_754 answer below, https://freefilesync.org is the solution to my particular problem, since it allows all kind of simple rules and logic to apply, so I can make sure that the copy only happens in one direction, and only ever by file date etc. Much appreciated. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Why are file backups so slow on Windows 11?
    I use this one: https://freefilesync.org. Source: over 1 year ago
View more

Cyberduck mentions (72)

  • Use CLI on any OS to read-write your iPhone folders (without cloud or cable)
    The WebDAV server is Class 1 compliant (Basic), compatible with WebDAV clients like Cyberduck, rclone (GUI & CLI, available on macOS, Windows, and Linux), etc. This guide will use Cyberduck, but rclone works too. - Source: dev.to / about 1 month ago
  • Getting Files from Point A to B: A Developer’s Guide to FTP
    Cyberduck: Nice macOS support, also handles SFTP. - Source: dev.to / about 2 months ago
  • Show HN: DrawDB – open-source online database diagram editor (a retro)
    Or could they just reach out to contributors and ask them to help? Or here’s another route: sell “licenses” regardless of the actual license. I think https://cyberduck.io/ has this: you can donate and get a key that removes the donation nag. You can’t go after the pirates, but would you really want to spend your time on that? (Of course, I would still reach out to the contributors first, explain the situation and... - Source: Hacker News / about 2 months ago
  • VSCode's SSH Agent Is Bananas
    > I distinctly remember seeing some program that was named something duck-related but for the life of me I can't remember any other specifics cyberduck - https://cyberduck.io/. - Source: Hacker News / 4 months ago
  • Supabase Storage: now supports the S3 protocol
    Cyberduck: a cloud storage browser for Mac and Windows. - Source: dev.to / about 1 year ago
View more

What are some alternatives?

When comparing FreeFileSync and Cyberduck, you can also consider the following products

Syncthing - Syncthing replaces proprietary sync and cloud services with something open, trustworthy and...

FileZilla - FileZilla is an FTP, or file transfer protocol, client. It lets individuals transfer single files or batches to a web server. For many years, FTP was the standard for website design. Read more about FileZilla.

rsync - rsync is a file transfer program for Unix systems. rsync uses the "rsync algorithm" which provides a very fast method for bringing remote files into sync.

WinSCP - WinSCP is an open source free SFTP client and FTP client for Windows.

GoodSync - GoodSync provides highly reliable file backup and synchronization for both individuals and businesses.

Transmit - Transmit is an FTP client for Mac OS X and Mac OS Classic (which is unsupported).