Syncing files across your devices might sound simple in theory, but doing it efficiently and seamlessly is often a different story.

As someone who relies on local-first note-taking apps like Obsidian and LogSeq, I’ve always wanted a way to sync my notes between my computer and phone effortlessly. While these apps offer their own sync services, they often come with limitations: they’re paid add-ons, they don’t always perform well, and, most importantly, I’m not keen on entrusting my personal notes to app developers. That’s why I turned to third-party sync tools. Being a long-time Dropbox user, it was a natural choice for me.

However, despite Dropbox’s excellent desktop integration, its mobile app doesn’t allow apps like Obsidian to directly access files. To make it work, I needed a way to map and sync a specific folder, just like on my desktop. I spent quite some time searching for a tool that could automate this process on my phone.

That’s when I discovered Dropsync, and it completely changed the way I manage my files. Even better, I later learned that the team behind Dropsync, MetaCtrl, offers a suite of similar tools under the AutoSync brand, supporting various cloud storage services. This makes them a perfect solution for a wide range of users.

What Is Dropsync and Why Is It So Awesome?

Dropsync is an Android app specifically designed for Dropbox users. Its core feature is “fully automated two-way syncing”. In simple terms, it keeps your files perfectly synced between your device and Dropbox. Whether you’re uploading, downloading, or modifying files, Dropsync ensures everything stays updated in real time, so your file versions are always consistent.

With Dropsync, all those tedious upload and download tasks are handled automatically. Any changes you make to files on your phone are uploaded to Dropbox, and updates to your Dropbox folder appear on your phone almost instantly. The best part? This all happens without you lifting a finger—just set it up once and forget about it.

What Makes Dropsync Stand Out?

1. Real Two-Way Sync
   Dropsync’s standout feature is its ability to sync files in both directions. Whether you edit a file on your phone or update it on your computer, Dropsync ensures that both versions stay in sync. For example, if I update a document on my computer, I can see the latest version on my phone within minutes. This seamless experience eliminates the hassle of manually transferring files.

1. Flexible Sync Modes
   Dropsync offers multiple sync options, such as one-way upload, one-way download, mirror syncing (ensuring two folders are identical), and even “upload and delete” mode. These options are perfect for various use cases. For instance, when I take a lot of photos on my phone but don’t want them taking up local storage, I enable the “upload and delete” mode. This automatically backs up my photos to Dropbox and clears them from my phone.
2. Freedom to Choose Any Folder
   Unlike many cloud apps that limit you to syncing specific types of files (like photos or documents), Dropsync lets you sync any folder on your device—even app data files. There are no restrictions on file types, so whether it’s images, videos, PDFs, or compressed files, Dropsync handles them all. This flexibility makes managing files a breeze.
3. Smart Settings for Better Control
   Dropsync includes smart features such as syncing only on Wi-Fi or while your phone is charging, so it doesn’t drain your battery or eat up data. These thoughtful touches make it ideal for mobile users who want efficiency without compromise.
4. Fully Automated Experience
   Once you’ve configured Dropsync, it runs quietly in the background. New photos are automatically uploaded to Dropbox, and changes on your computer sync back to your phone without any manual intervention. It’s like having a diligent assistant who takes care of all your syncing needs.

In short, Dropsync is like having a hardworking helper that silently handles all your file syncing tasks, freeing you up to focus on more important things.

Thoughts on MetaCtrl’s Focus and Growth

MetaCtrl, the team behind Dropsync, initially focused exclusively on creating the best experience for Dropbox users. They recognized that while Dropbox’s official app is powerful, it lacks automated two-way sync on Android—a significant drawback for power users. Dropsync was developed to fill this gap.

But MetaCtrl didn’t stop there. To cater to a broader audience, they expanded their offerings with AutoSync, a multi-purpose sync tool that supports a wide range of cloud storage services. These include Google Drive, OneDrive, SharePoint Online, Box, MEGA, Nextcloud, pCloud, and more. AutoSync even works with WebDAV, FTP, SFTP, and LAN/SMB network drives, ensuring that no matter which cloud storage service you use, MetaCtrl has a solution for you.

This strategy of starting with a niche focus and then expanding to cover diverse use cases has made MetaCtrl a leader in the file syncing space.

Unlocking the PRO Version: More Power, More Features

While the free versions of Dropsync and AutoSync are sufficient for basic needs, upgrading to the PRO version unlocks a wealth of advanced features for just $5.99. Here’s what you get:

• Sync multiple folders instead of being limited to just one.
• Upload files larger than 10 MB—a must for video and large file users.
• Smart Change Detection, which significantly speeds up syncing and ensures updates happen almost instantly.
• Sync an entire cloud account with a single folder on your device.
• Password protection for the app, adding an extra layer of security.
• A completely ad-free experience for uninterrupted use.
• Priority email support from the developers, so you can quickly resolve any issues.

For just $5.99, the PRO version transforms Dropsync into a comprehensive tool that covers virtually all your file syncing needs.

Personally, I’ve found Dropsync’s free version sufficient for now, but I’m considering upgrading. I haven’t tried AutoSync yet, since Dropbox is my primary cloud service, but I’m curious to see how it performs with other platforms.

Final Thoughts

Dropsync is hands-down one of the most reliable Android file syncing tools I’ve ever used. By adding fully automated two-way sync, it addresses the shortcomings of Dropbox’s official app and makes file management effortless. If you’re a heavy Dropbox user, Dropsync is a must-have app.

For those who rely on other cloud storage services, MetaCtrl’s AutoSync offers an equally powerful solution, supporting nearly every major platform and even private cloud options.

The only downside? Dropsync is Android-only. Due to iOS’s system restrictions, achieving the kind of file-level syncing that Dropsync delivers is nearly impossible on Apple devices. As of now, I haven’t encountered any iOS apps that come close to what Dropsync or AutoSync can do.

If you’re on Android, though, Dropsync is a game-changer. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed.