Best Windows rsync Alternatives to Sync Files on Windows

Why you need Windows rsync alternative?

While rsync is a legendary file-syncing tool on Linux and macOS, Windows users quickly discover that running it on a Windows system is far from straightforward. Rsync was never designed with native Windows support in mind. That’s why many users look for a Windows rsync alternative:

• Requires Workarounds: To use rsync on Windows, you typically need Cygwin or WSL, adding complexity and overhead.
• Poor Windows Integration: Fails to handle NTFS permissions and VSS properly, which may cause permission errors, skipped files, or inconsistent sync results.
• No Graphical Interface: Command-line only, which is less user-friendly.
• Unreliable Real-Time Sync: Not built for Windows, leading to inconsistent monitoring.

Best 3 rsync software for Windows

If you’re looking for a reliable Windows rsync alternative, here are the three best tools that deliver fast file synchronization, automation, and compatibility with modern Windows environments.

1. AOMEI Backupper Standard — Powerful File & Folder Sync

AOMEI Backupper Standard is the best rsync for Windows. It offers an intuitive interface without requiring command-line skills.

🌟 Best for: Users who want a powerful, free, and beginner-friendly rsync replacement with automation and a clean GUI.

2. Robocopy — Built-In Command-Line Sync for Windows

Robocopy (Robust File Copy) is a native Windows command-line tool and one of the closest functional equivalents to rsync. Built into Windows since Vista, it supports incremental sync, multi-threaded copying, and advanced filtering. However, like rsync, it’s command-line only, so it requires some technical knowledge.

Key Features:

• Built into Windows—no installation required
• Incremental syncing and multi-threaded file transfer
• Extensive command-line options for customization
• Excellent performance for large or complex directories

🌟 Best for: IT professionals, power users, or anyone comfortable using Windows terminal tools.

3. FreeFileSync — Open-Source Sync Tool for Windows

FreeFileSync is a popular open-source synchronization tool and a strong rsync-like option for Windows users. It offers a graphical interface, real-time sync capabilities, and flexible comparison methods to ensure accurate file transfers.

Key Features:

• Free, open-source, and cross-platform
• Two-way, mirror, and update sync modes
• Real-time sync based on file system events
• Side-by-side folder comparison
• Supports local drives, network storage, and cloud folder locations

🌟 Best for: Users who prefer open-source software and want visual control over sync tasks.

How to sync files with rsync for Windows

Here’s how to sync files using three of the most popular rsync software for Windows: AOMEI Backupper Standard, Robocopy, and FreeFileSync.

1. Using AOMEI Backupper Standard

Step 1. Download and install AOMEI Backupper, then open it. Go to Sync > Basic Sync. This mode works like rsync’s one-way file sync.

💡 Note: To automatically sync files the moment they change, please use the Real-Time Sync feature in higher editions.

Step 2. Click Select Source to select the folder(s) you want to sync.

Step 3. Pick a local drive, external disk, NAS, or network share as the destination path.

Step 4. (Optional) Click Schedule Sync to enable daily, weekly, or monthly auto-sync to automate the process.

Step 5. Click Start Sync. AOMEI Backupper will begin syncing files incrementally, just like rsync.

2. Using Robocopy

Step 1. Press Win + S, type cmd, then select Run as administrator.

Step 2. Input Robocopy commands based on your needs. The basic syntax is:

robocopy [source] [destination] [(file)( ...)] [(options)]

For example, to copy files and subfolders from E: drive to F: drive, type:

robocopy "E:\work documents" "F:\my backup" /e

💡 Note: “/e” means to copy subfolders including empty ones. Learn more Robocopy options here.

Step 3. Press Enter to run the command. Robocopy will automatically synchronize the two directories.

💡 Note: You can save your command in a .bat file (e.g., backup_robocopy.bat) and use Task Scheduler to create a scheduled task to copy files to another folder.

3. Using FreeFileSync

Step 1. Download FreeFileSync from the official site and launch the program.

Step 2. Browse and select the left (source) and right (destination) folders.

Step 3. Click Compare to see differences between the two directories.

Step 4. Click the green gear from the toolbar to choose a sync method and click OK.

• Two-way: Keeps both folders identical.
• Mirror: Makes the right folder an exact copy of the left.
• Update: Copies only newer files.

Step 5. Click Synchronize. The software will sync changes based on your chosen method.

FAQs about rsync for Windows

1. Does rsync work on Windows?

Yes, but not natively. Windows does not include rsync by default, so you must install it through WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux), Cygwin, or third-party ports. Most users prefer a Windows rsync alternative for easier setup and better compatibility.

2. Is rsync better than Robocopy?

It depends. Rsync is more flexible on Linux systems, while Robocopy is optimized for Windows and usually performs better for NTFS operations. For most Windows environments, Robocopy or a GUI-based tool is more reliable.

3. Can rsync sync to NAS devices from Windows?

Yes, as long as the NAS supports SMB, NFS, or rsync services. However, connecting via rsync daemon often requires extra configuration. A Windows-native sync tool usually connects more easily.

Verdict

Finding the right Windows rsync alternative is essential because rsync isn’t built for Windows and often requires workarounds like WSL or Cygwin. Tools such as AOMEI Backupper Standard, Robocopy, and FreeFileSync offer reliable file synchronization with better performance and easier setup.

Actually, AOMEI Backupper is not only a free file sync tool but also all-around backup and restore software. It enables you to backup external drive, OS, individual files and restore them whenever needed. Try it now to discover more!