Should I use Bidirectional sync or Collab Sync to keep a folder the same on two Macs?

Q: Should I use Bidirectional sync or Collab Sync to keep a folder the same on two Macs?

For two Macs that both run Storage Studio, Collab Sync is usually the better fit: it sends each change within seconds of saving, catches up by itself when the other Mac comes back, keeps both versions when the same file changes on both sides, and goes directly between the Macs with no cloud in between. Bidirectional sync in Data Transfers runs when you start it or on a schedule, and works between any two places — two folders, a folder and a cloud account, or a folder on a paired device. Related: Bridge and Collab Sync · What is Bidirectional sync?

Short answer: Between two Macs running Storage Studio, Collab Sync is usually better: near-instant, catches up by itself, keeps both versions on conflicts, no cloud. Bidirectional sync runs on demand or on a schedule between any two places.

For two Macs that both run Storage Studio, Collab Sync is usually the better fit: it sends each change within seconds of saving, catches up by itself when the other Mac comes back, keeps both versions when the same file changes on both sides, and goes directly between the Macs with no cloud in between.

Bidirectional sync in Data Transfers runs when you start it or on a schedule, and works between any two places — two folders, a folder and a cloud account, or a folder on a paired device.

Last reviewed October 1, 2026

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Should I use Bidirectional sync or Collab Sync to keep a folder the same on two Macs?

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