The article reviews Sync, a Canadian cloud storage service, highlighting its strong collaborative features and competitive performance alongside major players like Google Drive and iCloud. While it raises initial data protection concerns due to its location, Sync offers user-friendly functionalities such as team storage, file sharing, and an integrated Office suite for paid users. Upload speeds are slower than some competitors, and the interface is straightforward. Despite high subscription costs, the service’s features may make it a worthy option for collaborative work.
Sync, a cloud storage service based in Canada, may raise some initial concerns about data protection for potential users. However, there’s no need to dismiss it outright. In terms of collaborative features, Sync outperforms several competing platforms.
Our comprehensive evaluation of Sync delved into its functionalities, revealing that it competes well with leading services like Google Drive and Apple’s iCloud in multiple areas.
Unique Features
At first glance, Sync presents a minimalist aesthetic with its white and blue color scheme, aligning with the company branding. Yet, the true value lies in its features.
The top menu provides access to various sections of Sync’s service, including your standard file storage (Files), your Vault, a dedicated area for team storage, and spaces for shared content (Sharing).
Users may find the English default of the interface challenging, as Sync does not currently offer a German language option. Nevertheless, basic functions are navigable for users with a foundation in English.
File Transfers
The speed of uploads and downloads on Sync is notably slower compared to other systems like NextCloud or Mega, but still manageable. For instance, uploading a folder just under one megabyte took around ten seconds.
Sync claims to have a data transfer rate of 40 megabits per second, which is indeed fast. The delays encountered in our testing may be attributed to the geographical distance from their servers, primarily located in the USA. As a result, users in Germany may experience slower transfer speeds.
Users can rename, copy, delete, and share uploaded files within clouds, either within a team or through unique links. Sync offers clear delineation between work and personal storage through distinct areas for team and individual files.
Sharing files is straightforward; team members can be invited using email, while individual files can be shared via generated links sent through email directly from the platform.
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Link settings allow users to secure shared files with passwords and set expiration dates for added security, along with download limits and email notifications for access. Additionally, if access needs to be revoked, users can delete the link quickly and efficiently.
The Vault
Once files are uploaded, they remain accessible anytime, anywhere, either through the web interface or on devices with the Sync app installed. Regular syncing means files can be restored if needed, and this is where the Vault feature becomes useful.
Files placed in the Vault do not automatically sync with devices, making it an ideal space for backups and secure copies. The contents of the Vault are not viewable from other devices, enhancing privacy and freeing up local storage.
User-Friendly Operation
Sync’s drag-and-drop functionality simplifies its use, blending seamlessly into everyday tasks. While the upload button requires an additional click to access the drag-and-drop area, the streamlined menus facilitate quick navigation.
Users can efficiently locate files via a search bar or by sorting based on name, size, or modification date. Additional sorting options, akin to those provided by Mega, would enhance the experience.
Image and Video Handling
Sync does not have a specialized section for photos or videos like Google Photos. However, users can upload their visual media, which will be categorized alongside documents in general file storage.
This approach is not ideal for photo management. Opening images can be slow, and the absence of editing capabilities limits usability. Sync prioritizes document management, which is reflected in its features.
Additional Features
Through the events section in the main menu, users can view a timeline of their recent changes. The Users area allows for adding new users, although this option is exclusive to paid accounts.
A separate section for the recycle bin displays all deleted files, which can be recovered within 30 days; this period extends to up to 365 days with a paid plan.
Office Suite Comparable to Google Drive
Few cloud providers offer an integrated office suite, with Microsoft OneDrive being a notable example. Therefore, we were pleasantly surprised to find full office editing capabilities within Sync.
Users can edit text files, Word documents, PowerPoint presentations, and Excel spreadsheets online, collaborating with others in real-time. Changes sync rapidly, contributing to effective teamwork.
When more than two users are working on a document simultaneously,