Make the mode choice obvious
The preview makes it clear whether the real difference is about preserving or removing target-only files.
FileLever sync modes
Copy/update vs mirror: choose the right FileLever sync mode
The most important sync decision is not speed. It is outcome. Copy/update preserves target-only files while mirror aims to make the target match the source more exactly. FileLever makes that choice visible before you commit to either mode.
Available now on macOS. Windows and Linux are planned. Your files stay under your control.
See target-only files before you choose the more destructive sync mode.
Use copy/update when archives or backups may legitimately contain extras.
Use mirror only when exact replication is the actual goal.
A deliberate workflow
A clear path from review to action
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Compare the source and target first
Start by reviewing what is new, changed, unchanged, or present only in the target folder.
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Choose copy/update for conservative sync
Use copy/update when you want to add missing source files and refresh changed ones while keeping target-only files in place.
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Choose mirror for deliberate replicas
Use mirror only when you intentionally want the target to match the source more exactly and have reviewed target-only files carefully.
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Treat target-only files as the main decision point
If you still need target-only files, copy/update is usually the safer choice. If they should go, mirror may be the right fit after review.
Reduce sync mistakes
A visible preview helps you catch the cases where the target contains files you still need.
Keep the decision product-led
You do not need to translate another tool's terminology before deciding how FileLever should behave.
Product walkthrough
Watch the FileLever sync-mode walkthrough
This walkthrough shows FileLever previewing changed files, target-only files, and unchanged files before you choose copy/update or mirror.
Common questions
Before you start
What is the practical difference between copy/update and mirror?
Copy/update preserves files that exist only in the target, while mirror is for deliberate replica workflows where target-only files may be removed after review.
When is mirror the right choice?
Mirror is the right choice when the target should become an intentional replica of the source and you have already reviewed the target-only files carefully.
See the files first. Decide what happens next.
FileLever is available now on macOS, with Windows and Linux planned.