Hi everyone,
I’ve been using Synology Drive for several years to sync folders between my computers and my Synology NAS, access files through the web interface, restore older versions, and share files when needed.
A while ago, I decided to set up Nextcloud and give it a proper try. I’m running Nextcloud AIO on a separate VM, while the data and backups are stored on my own infrastructure (mounted nfs share on NAS).
After using it for some time, though, I feel like I’ve encountered more complexity and limitations than actual benefits compared with Synology Drive. I’m fairly sure I’m either missing something or simply not the target user for it.
For my use case:
- Both solutions can provide encrypted storage.
- Nextcloud has a more integrated E2EE option for specific folders, but I don’t currently need it.
- I use Immich for photos, so Nextcloud Photos and Memories are not important to me.
- I don’t use Nextcloud Office, Talk, Mail, Tasks, Deck, or similar collaboration apps.
- My main requirement is reliable file synchronization between computers, version history, web access, mobile access, and straightforward backups.
- I also like that Synology Drive works directly with regular shared folders that I can access over SMB.
With Nextcloud, I have an additional VM, Docker containers, a database, Redis, reverse-proxy configuration, updates, backups, and application compatibility to think about. Synology Drive feels much more limited, but also much more straightforward and integrated with the NAS.
For people who have used both, what do you consider the main practical advantages of Nextcloud over Synology Drive?
Are there important features, privacy benefits, or architectural advantages that only become obvious after using Nextcloud for longer?
I’m not trying to criticize Nextcloud. I’d genuinely like to understand what I may be overlooking before deciding whether to keep it or return to Synology Drive as my main file-sync solution.
Thanks!