How to transfer and sync files between Dropbox, OneDrive, Google Drive

Transferring and syncing files between cloud storage accounts are worthwhile. In this tutorial, we show how you can transfer files quickly and easily between different accounts and we also reveal how to sync folders across cloud services such as Dropbox, OneDrive, and Google Drive.

Note: the method shown below will only fully sync cloud storage services when your host PC is turned on.

Why you should sign up to multiple cloud storage services

If you have read our ‘What’s the best cloud service?’ article, you will know that the current cloud storage limits and compatibility options vary wildly. As a result, we suggest – if you have not already – to download and start using as many different cloud accounts as possible.

Not only will this keep your files backed up to the hills – as they are saved in multiple locations – but you will have more storage space too. Plus, if you follow the method below, you will be able to sync folders and have them up to date and readily accessible from any of your cloud services.

How to transfer files between Dropbox, OneDrive, and Google Drive

1. In order to be able to sync your files and folders across multiple cloud services, you first have to download the respective PC programs. To do this, simply go to the websites of Dropbox, OneDrive or Google Drive and follow the links to download the EXE files.
   
2. Once you have downloaded and installed the programs, cloud storage folders will be automatically created for you in Windows Explorer | Computer | Favorites.
   
3. From here you can simply drag and drop (copy and paste) the content you wish to transfer from one account to another; the services will then auto-sync in the background both to your PC and in the cloud.
   

How to sync folders between Dropbox, OneDrive, and Google Drive

If you would like to sync files between cloud accounts, there is a free Chrome extension called cloudHQ that can help you.

It is a service that lets you sync up to 50 files between two specific folders in different cloud accounts for free (less than 2GB).

Should that number exceed 50 files in two folders, you will have to part with your credit card out. Prices start from $9.90 a month.

Using cloudHQ is a fairly straightforward affair of entering your login details, allowing the app access to your cloud services, and then selecting the folders you would like to sync. Find below a step-by-step to ensure you set up your cloud sync properly.

1. Go to the cloudHQ app and click add to Chrome.
   
2. You now need to click on your Chrome browser’s new cloudHQ shortcut, which can be found on the far right-hand side of the Bookmarks bar, and follow the link to the configuration page.
   
3. Next, you will be presented with a grid full of cloud storage logos – click on the service from which you would like to be your sync. Note: for the purpose of this tutorial, Dropbox will be used as the primary share folder.
   
4. If you are not already logged into Dropbox, you will need to click on the yellow Add Dropbox button found at the bottom of the page. If you are logged in, click on the yellow Select button.
   
5. Your Dropbox folders will now be presented to you in a file explorer-style window; click on the folder you wish to sync and then press the yellow Select button.
   
6. Repeat the process with your desired secondary cloud service and folder that you would like to sync via cloudHQ. Once selected, you will see a page that gives you the option to Synchronize Continuously or Synchronize Once; select as appropriate and cloudHQ will start work right away.