I tested Syncthing-Fork on a budget Android phone over two days. The app opened normally, and the main screen showed folders, devices, and sync information without major visual problems.
The app is not a simple photo viewer or file manager. It keeps working in the background for file syncing. During normal use, I did not notice major lag while moving around the app.
The Play Store page warns that the first launch after the version 2 upgrade can take time because the app may need to move its database to the new format. It also tells users not to force-stop the app during this process.
What This App Actually Does
Syncthing-Fork helps you keep the same files on two or more devices. For example, you can sync a folder between an Android phone and a computer.
It works with Syncthing instead of using a normal cloud storage service. Files can move directly between your connected devices, so you do not need to put the synced files into a cloud drive first.
Top 5 Features That Matter
- Folder Sync: You can choose folders that need to stay in sync. This is useful for keeping important files updated on more than one device.
- Device Sync: The app can connect with other Syncthing devices. It can also discover other Syncthing devices on the same network.
- Sync Progress: The app shows folder, device, and total sync progress. This makes it easier to see what is happening during a file transfer.
- Sync Conditions: You can set different sync conditions for individual devices and folders. There is also an option to sync every hour to reduce battery use.
- SD Card Support: Two-way syncing works with external SD cards on Android 11 and newer. This is useful if your phone stores many files on a memory card.
Storage Space and Data Use
The current Play Store listing does not show a fixed download size or installed-size number. A current F-Droid build lists a 64 MiB APK, while another app-size listing reports about 65.08 MB.
The app’s own cache size can change as you use it, so there is no useful fixed cache number. The amount of internet data used also depends on the files you sync and your chosen network.
The app needs storage access because its main job is reading and writing files. File transfers can happen between connected devices, so the data amount depends on the files being synchronized.
Permissions and App Safety
Syncthing-Fork asks for storage access, network access, notifications, startup access, and battery-related permissions. It can also request location access for network-related features and camera access for its optional camera feature.
Google Play currently says the developer does not share data with third parties. It lists app information and performance as a data type the app may collect, says data is encrypted in transit, and says the data cannot be deleted.
How It Compares to 2 Alternatives
FolderSync is a different type of tool because it focuses on syncing local folders with cloud services and other storage systems. Resilio Sync also offers direct device-to-device file syncing, while Syncthing-Fork is free and open-source.
Good Things & Bad Things
Pros
- Free to use.
- Direct device-to-device syncing.
- Shows sync progress.
- Supports external SD cards.
- No third-party data sharing is declared on Google Play.
Cons
- Setup takes more steps than a normal cloud storage app.
- The app needs many permissions for its functions.
- Large file syncing can use storage and network data.
- The version 2 upgrade has a database migration step.
Who Is It For?
Best For:
- People who want to sync files between their phone and computer.
- Users who want a free alternative to cloud-based file syncing.
Not For:
- People who want a very simple one-tap backup app.
- Users who do not want to spend time setting up folders and devices.
Common Questions
Is Syncthing-Fork free?
Yes, the app is available as a free Android application. Its Play Store listing describes it as an open and decentralized file synchronization tool.
Does it need cloud storage?
No. Syncthing-Fork is designed to sync files directly between connected devices instead of using a central cloud storage service.
Can I use an SD card?
Yes. The app supports two-way synchronization on external SD cards from Android 11 onward.
Offzack Verdict & Link
Syncthing-Fork is a useful file-sync app for people who want more control over where their files are stored. It takes more setup than basic backup apps, but its device-to-device syncing, progress display, folder controls, and SD card support make it a practical choice for regular file syncing.
Download Syncthing-Fork – App from Google Playstore
Final Scorecard
- Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆ (3/5) — The app works well, but setup needs some learning.
- Performance: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — Normal app use was smooth during testing.
- Features: ★★★★★ (5/5) — It offers folder, device, progress, condition, and SD card syncing features.
- Privacy & Safety: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — Google Play says no data is shared with third parties and data is encrypted in transit.
- Value for Money: ★★★★★ (5/5) — The app is free and provides direct file syncing.
- Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — A good choice for users who need regular file syncing between Android and other devices.