# Sync or backup: which one to use

The difference between sync and backup in Drime Desktop, what happens to your files with each, and which one to choose for a folder.

Updated: 2026-10-21  
Source: https://drime.cloud/support/desktop/sync-vs-backup

Drime Desktop can keep your files in two ways. They do not do the same thing.

|  | Sync | Backup |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Direction | Both ways: a change on your computer or in Drime appears on the other side | One way: from your computer to Drime |
| Deleting a file | Deleting it on one side deletes it on the other | Drime never deletes or changes your local files |
| Copy in Drime | Normal files you can edit anywhere | Read-only copies |
| Where | The Drime folder, or a folder you link on the **Folder sync** page | Any folder you choose, such as Documents or Pictures |
| Find it on the web | In your Drive, like any other file | On the **Backups** page, under the name of the computer |
| Best for | Working on the same files from several devices | Keeping a safe copy of a computer's folders |

A folder cannot be backed up and synced at the same time.

With sync, Drime Desktop reminds you: **If you delete files from synced folders, you delete them from Drime and your PC.** Backups are in public beta: the feature is stable but still evolving.

## Which one to choose

- You want to open and edit your files from the web, your phone or another computer: **sync**. See [How Drime Desktop sync works](https://drime.cloud/support/desktop/how-sync-works).
- You want a copy of your computer's folders in case something happens to it: **backup**. See [Back up folders from your computer](https://drime.cloud/support/desktop/back-up-your-computer).