Dropsync - Sync Android with Dropbox

Syncing Beyond Google: Extending Android Functionality

The Android operating system offers synchronization of contacts, calendars, and bookmarks with Google’s servers. However, it lacks built-in support for syncing other crucial data types. Specifically, students often require synchronization of tasks, documents, and notes, which isn't natively provided.

Fortunately, numerous alternative services are available to address this gap, including popular options like Evernote and DoIt.im.

The Need for PDF Synchronization

A specific need arose for syncing PDF slides for class review on an Acer tablet. While Dropbox functions exceptionally well on desktop computers, its Android implementation presents limitations.

The primary drawback of Dropbox on Android is the absence of robust two-way synchronization capabilities.

Dropsync: A Solution for Real-Time Synchronization

Although Dropbox may eventually incorporate this functionality, Dropsync currently provides an excellent solution. It facilitates the uploading and downloading of files in real-time, particularly with the Pro version.

Users can also configure Dropsync to sync files at user-defined intervals, offering flexibility.

For those already utilizing Dropbox, Dropsync can significantly enhance the mobile experience.

Beyond Synchronization: The Value of Backup

Dropbox’s utility extends beyond simple file synchronization; it also serves as a valuable backup solution for important files. This provides protection against data loss in unforeseen circumstances.

Other services, such as SpiderOak and SugarSync, also offer similar syncing and backup features.

Choosing Dropbox and Dropsync

After evaluating all three services, Dropbox was ultimately preferred due to its ease of use. It required minimal adaptation, offered clients for all commonly used operating systems, and exhibited minimal synchronization latency.

Dropsync Pro: Features and Cost

Dropsync is available in both free and Pro versions. The Pro version, currently under review, is priced at $5.99 and can be obtained through the Android Market.

Dropsync provides a powerful solution for users seeking enhanced synchronization capabilities on their Android devices.

Synchronizing SD Card and Dropbox Folders

Upon initial installation and launch of Dropsync, the user interface primarily displays status and preference settings. The main screen provides a real-time overview of synchronization progress, detailing the amount of data transferred both to and from Dropbox servers, as illustrated in the following screenshot.

Accessing the Settings menu reveals more detailed configuration options.

Within the Settings, users can define specific pairings between folders on their SD card and corresponding folders within their Dropbox account.

For mobile users mindful of data consumption, the application allows the establishment of file size limitations for all data transfers, regardless of direction – whether uploading to or downloading from the Android device.

To manage data usage effectively, it is advisable to disable the Instant Upload feature. This feature facilitates real-time synchronization of file modifications, and is exclusive to the pro version. Synchronization intervals can also be adjusted to occur every 15 minutes, hourly, or daily.

It’s important to note that this application isn’t fully optimized for tablet devices. The settings also allow users to choose between utilizing Wi-Fi or their mobile data connection for file transfers.

Additional options include the ability to enable or disable synchronization notifications. Based on personal experience over a semester of use, disabling notifications is recommended, particularly on tablets lacking a "Clear All" function for these alerts.

Distinguishing Features of the Free and Professional Editions

Several key distinctions exist between the complimentary and professional versions of this application. As previously noted, real-time synchronization functionality is exclusively available to those who have acquired the pro license.

Furthermore, the pro version provides a wider selection of size limitations for file transfers. This allows users to restrict uploads to files below a specified size, proving particularly useful when operating under data plans with usage caps.

Beyond the ad-free experience, a significant advantage of the professional edition is the ability to synchronize multiple folder pairs. This feature was a primary driver for my own upgrade to the pro version.

My experience utilizing the pro version for an extended period – over an entire academic semester – has demonstrated its capacity to streamline workflows and minimize potential complications.

Alternative Synchronization Applications

Numerous alternative applications are available for synchronizing data between your Android device and a computer. We are interested in learning about your preferred solutions.

Please share your recommendations and experiences in the comments section below.