Of late, I have been working diligently to stream-line my process of storing data, trying to improve my overall productivity. Of all my needs to accomplish this task, the largest need is that of a single point of access for all my tools, files, and software. Although there are many systems in place for this type of thing, with ideas ranging from very specialized to very generic, my favorite solution has been via the services style offered by DropBox and Sugar Sync
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What kind of services are DropBox and SugarSync?
I won’t belabor this point too much, but please check out their sites if you want more detail. The main gist of these services is to offer its user a file syncing storage solution that gives them access to the most recent version of their file no matter where they are: Work PC, Home PC, Smart Phone, etc. Its a pretty basic solution that many other people have tried (Live Mesh, Folder Share, FTP-style clients, etc.) but one which I feel that DropBox and SugarSync have really mastered. Their services are dead simple, which is why it is good.
What do I used these services for?
My opinions concerning these two services are mainly based on my use-cases. In order give an accurate gauge of my opinions, here are my most common use-cases for the services:
- Syncing Portable Apps + Tools – When on the job, I have a plethora of tools that can make my life easier. Also, I do not always shave the luxury to install any application. These services gives me access to those files w/o having to install a thing. Tools that I use daily include: AutoHotKey, KeePass, Pidgin, Terminals, Reflector, Gimp, NotePad ++, XMind, CommitMonitor, Putty, and many others. Not only can I have these “on the go” at any time, but I also have a universal configuration / setting for these items.
- Storing Important Documents – When with a client, I often need to look up key documents: agreements, invoice templates, tax charts, timesheets, etc. With these services, I always have them on hand. It makes me look prepared and organized, which is always nice when working w/ a client.
- Sharing files with friends – There’s nothing like easy file swapping in a community folder. These services give me just that.
- Ebook Repository – Ebooks are a library on the go and you never know when you will need to look something up or just kill a little down-time w/ some nice reading. Having those w/ you at all times is essential.
Which service is better for Nathan (me)?
Okay, so now we are at the crux of the issue. Which service do I prefer and why? For the most part, the offerings of each service is identical – pound for pound. They have versioning, free 2 gig accounts, shared folders, smart phone apps, etc. Their key difference, however, is in their implementation and their acceptance.
Pro-Sugar Sync
- Sugar Sync has what I call a folder abstraction. It does not point to 1 place on the file share, but, rather, allows you to add folders in different locations which may map to the same folder (but in a different location) on one of your other PC’s. This is a HUGE win. When I am working across operating systems and want to sync my playlists, bookmarks, etc, the software does not get in my way. DropBox dumps into 1 directory (which Sugar Sync can emulate using their “Magic Briefcase”
- Sugar Sync allows me to selectively sync folders and shared folders. If I am on my work PC and would prefer that my Dungeons and Dragons ebooks not be pulled down, I can choose to NOT sync that folder but still get access to my tools and other ebooks. DropBox is a all-or-nothing setup, AFAIK.
- Sugar Sync has a Droid application, created by the creators of sugar sync – that is free! DropBox has a 3rd party application that is neat – IF I am willing to pay for the full service
Pro-Drop Box
- The free version of this service can be installed on infinite PCs. Sugar Sync free has a 2 PC limit (does not count smart phone installs). This is a HUGE failing on Sugar Sync, unless I am willing to pay.
- Drop Box had more clout. Its been around longer and more people use it. Although I hate to go w/ something because it is the “status-quo”, it is a weighing factor.
In Conclusion
Personally, I feel that SugarSync is the better service because it gives me more control on the way that my files are synced from PC to PC. However, the 2 PC limit is a killer and has recently forced me to move back to DropBox, despite its limitations. If I were willing to go w/ the paid route (which lifts this restriction), Sugar Sync is not only the better service for me, but also cheaper.
In the future, I hope that both DropBox and SugarSync learn from each other. If DropBox could work in better folder abstraction and sync settings, I would never leave it. Conversely, if Sugar Sync would remove that ridiculous 2 PC limit, I’d be their devout customer. I guess we will have to wait and see what the future holds for these products.
Finally, was I wrong in my assessment anywhere? Please correct me if I am!