Best FREE Chronosync for Windows | Alternative & Sync Guide

What Is ChronoSync?

ChronoSync is a powerful macOS application designed for file synchronization, data backup, and bootable drive cloning. It allows users to sync files between two computers and store redundant backups in the cloud. All these tasks can either be manually executed or automated.

Unfortunately, ChronoSync is exclusive to macOS, and there’s no official Windows version or cross-platform support. So many users search for ChronoSync-like software for Windows that offers similar features:

• One-way or two-way synchronization.
• Scheduled backup and sync without intervention.
• Create bootable backups (clones) of the entire system.
• Support internal or external drives, network locations, or cloud services.
• ......

How to Sync Files using ChronoSync (on macOS)

ChronoSync makes it easy to keep files identical between drives, Macs, or cloud storage. Here’s a simple guide:

Step 1. Open ChronoSync, click Create a new synchronizer task.

Step 2. Choose a sync mode- Synchronize Two Folders. Then, click Get Started.

Step 3. You’ll be asked to select the left folder (files to sync) and right folder (sync to). Click to choose or drag folders. The right folder is usually on another computer connected using file sharing.

Step 4. Choose how to handle replaced or deleted files. Click Next Step.

Step 5. Write a task name and click Create Task.

Step 6. Open the created synchronizer document. Go to the Actions menu and select Schedule.

Step 7. In the Scheduled Item Editor window, set up a trigger and other options. Click Save.

Best ChronoSync Alternatives for Windows

AOMEI BackupperStandard is the closest ChronoSync equivalent for Windows 7, 8/8.1, 10, and 11 - powerful, flexible, and easy to use.

In addition, this software also provides different backup, restore, and cloning features. Free download it to have a try!

How to Sync Files using ChronoSync for Windows

Step 1. Download and install AOMEI Backupper Standard to sync files in Windows 7, 8/8.1, 10, and 11. Click Sync > Basic Sync.

Step 2. Click Select Source to select files you want to sync. Then, click the PC icon to select the target drive. It can be local drives, external drives, network shares, NAS, etc.

Step 3. Click Schedule Sync to set a frequency - based on daily, weekly, monthly, or event triggers. You can also enable Email notifications for sync status. At last, click Start Sync.

💡 Notes:
✔ To enhance efficiency, please check the option to sync deletions from source directory to destination.
✔ To ensure safety, it’s suggested to verify the integrity of files in Options.

After the first sync, it will only sync modified or new files - saving both time and disk space. In addition, you can also enjoy Real-Time Sync, Mirror Sync, and Two Way Sync on the advanced edition - AOMEI Backupper Professional.

Final Thoughts

ChronoSync is a powerful tool, but it’s designed exclusively for macOS. Fortunately, AOMEI Backupper delivers an ideal balance of automation, reliability, and versatility, making it the best ChronoSync for Windows.

Whether you’re syncing files, creating backups, or cloning drives, it ensures your data stays safe and deals with potential errors to make the entire process seamless.

FAQs

1. Is ChronoSync available for Windows 10 or 11?

No. ChronoSync is macOS-only and doesn’t have a Windows version. Windows users need to use alternative software like AOMEI Backupper for similar sync and backup features.

2. Can I use ChronoSync through emulation or virtual machines?

Technically, you could run ChronoSync inside a macOS virtual machine, but it’s not recommended. It’s complex to set up, may violate Apple’s licensing terms, and performance is unreliable for large sync tasks.

3. What’s the best free alternative to ChronoSync on Windows?

AOMEI Backupper Standard is the best free option - it supports one-way file sync, plus schedule sync and NAS/cloud support, all with an easy-to-use interface. It also allows you to enable Email notification, verify the integrity of files, choose to sync deletions or not, etc.

4. Do these alternatives support NAS and cloud syncing?

Yes. Tools like AOMEI Backupper work with NAS devices, external drives, and cloud folders (such as Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox). Be sure to install them on your computer and sign in with your account.

5. Can I use these tools for two-way synchronization?

Yes. Many alternatives, including AOMEI Backupper Professional, support two-way sync, ensuring files stay identical on both drives or devices automatically.