Syncra vs OneDrive
Microsoft's storage built into Windows, or a tool that syncs across devices, NAS and several clouds.
Checked: Plans, prices and features of other products change. This comparison was checked in 2026-10; confirm the details on OneDrive's own site before you decide.
The two tools in short
OneDrive
OneDrive is Microsoft's online storage, built into Windows and Microsoft 365, with folders that sync to your PC.
Syncra
Syncra syncs folders between your PCs, drives and NAS and can connect cloud accounts you already have. It does not provide online storage of its own.
Side by side
| Capability | Syncra | OneDrive |
|---|---|---|
| Two-way sync of folders | Yes | Yes |
| Direct device-to-device sync on a local network | YesDesktop & CLI1 | No |
| Works across local drives, NAS and cloud storage together | YesDesktop & CLI1 | No |
| Contents encrypted on your device with a key only you hold | YesDesktop & CLI1 | NoData is encrypted in transit and at rest with Microsoft-managed keys; Personal Vault adds an extra identity check for the files you put in it. |
| Version history and restore | YesDesktop & CLI1 | DependsVersion history and restore options depend on your plan. |
| Automatic stop when mass damage is detected | YesDesktop & CLI1 | DependsRansomware detection and recovery tools are included with some Microsoft 365 plans. |
| Free for personal use | Yes | Partly |
| Provides online storage of its own | No | Yes |
¹ Implemented in the Syncra engine, the syncra CLI and the background service; the desktop app's screens for it are rolling out now. Not available in the browser web app.
Syncra vs OneDrive
When OneDrive is the better choice
- You use Microsoft 365: Office co-authoring and sharing work best with OneDrive.
- You want your Windows Desktop, Documents and Pictures folders backed up by the operating system itself.
- You like on-demand files that save disk space.
When Syncra fits better
- You do not want your files tied to one vendor: you can mix PCs, NAS and several cloud accounts.
- You want devices on the same network to sync directly with each other.
- You want ransomware auto-stop and point-in-time restore that you control, free for personal use.
What Syncra costs
Free with every feature on home PCs used by individuals. Work PCs (public bodies, businesses, sole proprietors, freelancers) need Business: 6,900 KRW (5.99 USD) per member per month, from one member.
Questions about Syncra and OneDrive
Can I use Syncra together with OneDrive?
Yes. OneDrive is one of the cloud services Syncra can connect to. If you turn on Syncra's encryption for that connection, file contents are encrypted on your PC before upload.
Will Syncra replace OneDrive's folder backup in Windows?
No. Syncra does not manage Windows' known folders for you. You choose the folders to sync or back up.