Compare Backup and Sync & Drive File Stream
If you want to sync files between Google Drive and your computer, you may be able to use one of two apps.
Some Google Drive features are only available with a work or school account, and you're not signed in. To sign in to your work or school account, click here.
- Backup and Sync syncs and stores Drive content locally on your computer.
- Drive File Stream streams all files and folders from the cloud. You can only use Drive File Stream with a Google Account through work or school.
See differences between Backup and Sync & Drive File Stream
| Backup and Sync | Drive File Stream | |
|---|---|---|
| Use files in My Drive | Yes | Yes |
| Use files in shared drives | No | Yes |
| Sync only selected folders in My Drive* | Yes | Yes |
| Sync only individual files in My Drive* | No | Yes |
| Use native apps, like Microsoft Office & Photoshop | Yes | Yes |
| See who's editing with real-time presence in Microsoft Office | No | Yes |
| Integrates with Microsoft Outlook | No | Yes |
| Sync other folders, like Documents or Desktop | Yes | No |
| Use with your personal Google Account | Yes | No |
| Use with your work or school Google Account | Maybe | Yes |
| Upload photos and videos to Google Photos | Yes | No |
*With Drive File Stream, you can make selected files or folders 'Available offline' to sync them to your computer rather than an online stream.
Was this helpful?
How can we improve it?
