pCloud Drive vs (pCloud) Sync

Understand the difference between pCloud Drive and the Sync feature, how each works, and when to use them for managing and accessing your files.

pCloud Drive and (pCloud) Sync serve different purposes, but they work together to help you manage your files efficiently. 

What is pCloud Drive?

pCloud Drive is a desktop application that created a virtual drive on your computer. 

It allows you to:

  • Access your files without storing them locally.
  • Save space on your hard drive.
  • Open, edit, and share files directly from the cloud.

Files stored in pCloud Drive are available on demand and do not take up space on your device unless you choose to make them available offline. 

What is (pCloud) Sync?

Sync is a feature within pCloud Drive that connects local folders on your computer with your pCloud account. 

This connection works both ways:

  • Changes made on your computer are reflected in pCloud. 
  • Changes made in pCloud are reflected on your computer. 

How to set up Sync

  1. Right-click on the folder you want to sync
  2. Select Sync to pCloud
  3. Choose a location in pCloud Drive
  4. Confirm to complete the setup

Benefits of using Sync

  • Offline access: You can work with your files even without an internet connection
  • Automatic updates: Changes are synced once your connection is restored
  • Always up to date: Ensures the latest version of your files is available both locally and in pCloud

When to use Sync

Use Sync when:

  • You want a local copy of your files on your computer. 
  • You need to work offline regularly
  • You want automatic synchronization between devices

Key difference

  • pCloud Drive: Works as a virtual drive and does not use local storage by default
  • Sync: Creates a mirrored copy of folders between your computer and pCloud
Previous article

Using Back up in pCloud Drive

Learn how to use the Back up feature in pCloud Drive to automatically save folders from your computer, keep them updated in real time, and ensure your files are securely stored.

Was this article helpful?

Help us improve our documentation. Let us know how we did.