Quick Overview
- 1#1: TeraCopy - TeraCopy speeds up file copying and moving with verification, pause/resume capabilities, and error recovery for reliable transfers.
- 2#2: FastCopy - FastCopy provides ultra-fast file copying across drives with built-in verification and support for large files and networks.
- 3#3: FreeFileSync - FreeFileSync offers open-source folder comparison and synchronization to mirror and copy files efficiently across locations.
- 4#4: GoodSync - GoodSync automates secure file synchronization and backup copying with real-time monitoring and version history.
- 5#5: Beyond Compare - Beyond Compare visually compares files and folders to synchronize and copy only differing content accurately.
- 6#6: SyncBack - SyncBack performs powerful file backups, synchronization, and copying with scripting and cloud integration.
- 7#7: ExtremeCopy - ExtremeCopy accelerates file copying up to 5x faster than standard methods with progress monitoring and task management.
- 8#8: Copy Handler - Copy Handler manages file copying with queuing, pausing, resuming, and detailed error handling for large operations.
- 9#9: Allway Sync - Allway Sync synchronizes files and folders across computers, drives, and networks with one-way or two-way copying.
- 10#10: Roadkil's Unstoppable Copier - Roadkil's Unstoppable Copier recovers and copies files from damaged media by skipping errors and bad sectors.
Tools were chosen based on key attributes: speed, error recovery, feature set (including scheduling, cloud integration, or version control), ease of use, and overall value, ensuring they meet the needs of both casual users and power performers while maintaining exceptional quality.
Comparison Table
Efficient file copying is vital for modern workflows, and with tools like TeraCopy, FastCopy, FreeFileSync, GoodSync, Beyond Compare, and more, selecting the right software matters. This comparison table evaluates key features—from speed and compatibility to advanced functionalities—so readers can easily identify the best fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TeraCopy TeraCopy speeds up file copying and moving with verification, pause/resume capabilities, and error recovery for reliable transfers. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | FastCopy FastCopy provides ultra-fast file copying across drives with built-in verification and support for large files and networks. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 10/10 |
| 3 | FreeFileSync FreeFileSync offers open-source folder comparison and synchronization to mirror and copy files efficiently across locations. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 10/10 |
| 4 | GoodSync GoodSync automates secure file synchronization and backup copying with real-time monitoring and version history. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | Beyond Compare Beyond Compare visually compares files and folders to synchronize and copy only differing content accurately. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | SyncBack SyncBack performs powerful file backups, synchronization, and copying with scripting and cloud integration. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | ExtremeCopy ExtremeCopy accelerates file copying up to 5x faster than standard methods with progress monitoring and task management. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 8 | Copy Handler Copy Handler manages file copying with queuing, pausing, resuming, and detailed error handling for large operations. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 9 | Allway Sync Allway Sync synchronizes files and folders across computers, drives, and networks with one-way or two-way copying. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 10 | Roadkil's Unstoppable Copier Roadkil's Unstoppable Copier recovers and copies files from damaged media by skipping errors and bad sectors. | specialized | 7.3/10 | 6.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
TeraCopy speeds up file copying and moving with verification, pause/resume capabilities, and error recovery for reliable transfers.
FastCopy provides ultra-fast file copying across drives with built-in verification and support for large files and networks.
FreeFileSync offers open-source folder comparison and synchronization to mirror and copy files efficiently across locations.
GoodSync automates secure file synchronization and backup copying with real-time monitoring and version history.
Beyond Compare visually compares files and folders to synchronize and copy only differing content accurately.
SyncBack performs powerful file backups, synchronization, and copying with scripting and cloud integration.
ExtremeCopy accelerates file copying up to 5x faster than standard methods with progress monitoring and task management.
Copy Handler manages file copying with queuing, pausing, resuming, and detailed error handling for large operations.
Allway Sync synchronizes files and folders across computers, drives, and networks with one-way or two-way copying.
Roadkil's Unstoppable Copier recovers and copies files from damaged media by skipping errors and bad sectors.
TeraCopy
specializedTeraCopy speeds up file copying and moving with verification, pause/resume capabilities, and error recovery for reliable transfers.
Built-in checksum verification (CRC32/MD5/SHA) that automatically ensures copied files are identical to originals
TeraCopy is a robust file copying utility for Windows that significantly outperforms the built-in Explorer copier in speed, reliability, and error handling. It supports pausing and resuming transfers, skipping corrupt files without stopping the process, and verifying copies via CRC32, MD5, or SHA checksums. With seamless Explorer integration, it queues multiple jobs and provides detailed progress reports, making it ideal for large-scale file operations over local or network drives.
Pros
- Blazing-fast copy speeds, especially for large files and networks
- Superior error recovery with automatic skipping and checksum verification
- Seamless Windows Explorer integration for quick access
Cons
- Free version lacks advanced features like folder sync and export lists
- User interface appears dated compared to modern apps
- Pro version required for full functionality
Best For
Professionals and power users handling frequent large file transfers or network copies who prioritize speed and data integrity.
Pricing
Free version with core features; Pro version $29.95 one-time lifetime license unlocking sync, lists, and more.
FastCopy
specializedFastCopy provides ultra-fast file copying across drives with built-in verification and support for large files and networks.
Proprietary multi-threaded engine delivering the fastest real-world file copy throughput on Windows
FastCopy is a high-performance Windows utility designed for ultra-fast file copying, moving, deleting, and synchronization tasks. It leverages multi-threaded operations and optimized algorithms to achieve superior speeds compared to Windows Explorer or other tools. Additional features include data verification, resume capability for interrupted transfers, and both GUI and command-line interfaces for flexibility.
Pros
- Exceptional copying speeds outperforming native Windows tools
- Robust verification and error recovery features
- Portable executable with no installation required
- Command-line support for scripting and automation
Cons
- Windows-only, no native support for macOS or Linux
- Dated graphical user interface
- Limited built-in customization options for advanced filtering
Best For
Windows power users and IT professionals handling large-scale file transfers who prioritize raw speed and reliability.
Pricing
Completely free for personal and commercial use; donationware model encouraged by the developer.
FreeFileSync
specializedFreeFileSync offers open-source folder comparison and synchronization to mirror and copy files efficiently across locations.
Visual folder comparison with color-coded previews before syncing
FreeFileSync is a free, open-source folder comparison and synchronization tool that enables users to mirror, update, or perform two-way syncing between local drives, external storage, or network locations. It features visual folder comparison, detects moved or renamed files, supports versioning, and handles large datasets efficiently. The software is cross-platform, running on Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it ideal for reliable backups and data mirroring.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no limitations
- Advanced features like move/rename detection and versioning
- Cross-platform support and efficient handling of large file sets
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced configurations
- Interface feels dated and less intuitive for beginners
- No built-in cloud service integration beyond FTP/SFTP
Best For
Power users, IT admins, and backup enthusiasts needing precise, customizable file synchronization across drives.
Pricing
100% free for personal and commercial use; optional donations.
GoodSync
specializedGoodSync automates secure file synchronization and backup copying with real-time monitoring and version history.
Byte-level verification ensuring every file transfer is perfectly accurate, even over unreliable connections
GoodSync is a robust file synchronization and backup software designed to keep files identical across desktops, laptops, servers, NAS devices, and cloud storage. It offers two-way real-time syncing, one-way backups, versioning, encryption, and conflict resolution to handle complex data replication needs. With support for numerous protocols like SMB, FTP, WebDAV, and direct cloud integrations (e.g., Google Drive, OneDrive), it excels in reliable, verified file copying over local networks or the internet.
Pros
- Proprietary sync engine verifies every byte for 100% accuracy and handles large files efficiently
- Extensive compatibility with local, network, mobile, and cloud destinations
- Advanced features like versioning, real-time monitoring, encryption, and bandwidth throttling
Cons
- Dated interface with a learning curve for beginners despite job wizards
- Free version limited to 3 jobs and no real-time sync
- Pricing scales up quickly for multiple devices or enterprise features
Best For
Power users, IT professionals, and businesses needing precise, secure synchronization across diverse devices and cloud services.
Pricing
Free version with limits; paid plans start at $19.90/year (Quick Start, 1 computer) or $49.90 lifetime (Personal), with Family/Business tiers up to $7,500 for unlimited devices.
Beyond Compare
specializedBeyond Compare visually compares files and folders to synchronize and copy only differing content accurately.
Real-time visual three-way folder merge with drag-and-drop editing
Beyond Compare is a robust file and folder comparison tool that visually highlights differences between files, directories, and even remote locations or archives. It enables precise synchronization, merging, and copying of files by allowing users to selectively update or overwrite based on detailed comparisons. Primarily designed for developers, sysadmins, and power users, it goes beyond basic copying with intelligent handling of file versions, binaries, and text.
Pros
- Exceptional visual side-by-side comparisons for accurate file diffs
- Powerful folder sync with rules, filters, and three-way merge
- Supports FTP/SFTP, cloud storage, and scripting for automation
Cons
- Paid license required after trial (no perpetual free version)
- Steeper learning curve for advanced sync rules and sessions
- Slower on massive directories compared to command-line tools like rsync
Best For
Developers and IT professionals requiring precise, visual file synchronization and comparison during backups or deployments.
Pricing
One-time purchase: Standard Edition $30 (single PC), Pro Edition $60 (two PCs); 30-day free trial available.
SyncBack
specializedSyncBack performs powerful file backups, synchronization, and copying with scripting and cloud integration.
Runtime Preview that simulates and visualizes sync operations before execution
SyncBack is a robust file synchronization and backup software from 2BrightSparks that enables users to mirror, copy, or sync files across local drives, network shares, FTP/SFTP, and cloud services like Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox. It supports advanced features such as versioning, compression, encryption, scripting, and detailed filtering to handle complex backup scenarios efficiently. Available in Free, SE, and Pro editions, it performs reliable file copying with minimal resource usage and single-pass operations for large datasets.
Pros
- Extensive support for protocols including FTP, SFTP, and multiple cloud providers
- Advanced features like versioning, encryption, and compression
- Efficient single-pass syncing that minimizes file touches
Cons
- Dated and cluttered user interface
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations
- Free version lacks key features like cloud support and scripting
Best For
IT professionals and advanced users needing powerful, customizable file syncing and backups across diverse destinations.
Pricing
Free edition; SyncBackSE $59.95 lifetime license; SyncBackPro $79.95 lifetime license.
ExtremeCopy
specializedExtremeCopy accelerates file copying up to 5x faster than standard methods with progress monitoring and task management.
Multi-threaded engine that dynamically adjusts for maximum copy speed
ExtremeCopy is a Windows-based file copying utility that aims to outperform the standard Windows Explorer by using multi-threaded operations for faster file transfers. It supports resuming interrupted copies, skipping problematic files, and verifying data integrity after copying. Available in free and Pro editions, it focuses on reliability for large-scale or network file operations.
Pros
- Faster multi-threaded copying speeds than Windows Explorer in many scenarios
- Resume capability for interrupted transfers
- Free version with core functionality and error handling
Cons
- Outdated user interface feels clunky
- Limited advanced features compared to competitors like TeraCopy
- Windows-only, no cross-platform support
Best For
Windows users needing a straightforward, speed-focused tool for bulk file copying over networks or large drives.
Pricing
Free version available; Pro edition is a one-time $19.95 purchase unlocking advanced settings and verification.
Copy Handler
specializedCopy Handler manages file copying with queuing, pausing, resuming, and detailed error handling for large operations.
Indefinite pause and resume of copy jobs, surviving system reboots
Copy Handler is a free Windows utility designed to replace the built-in file copier with advanced capabilities like pausing and resuming transfers, multi-threaded operations, and error recovery. It supports job queuing, file filters, scheduling, and integrity verification via hashes, making it suitable for large-scale file operations. Users can customize speeds, preserve NTFS permissions, and handle millions of files efficiently without interruptions.
Pros
- Highly customizable with multi-threading, filters, and scheduling
- Excellent pause/resume functionality even after reboots
- Free with robust integrity checks via hashing
Cons
- Dated and cluttered user interface
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Occasional bugs and Windows-only compatibility
Best For
IT professionals and power users handling large file migrations or backups requiring precise control and reliability.
Pricing
Completely free (open-source with optional donations)
Allway Sync
specializedAllway Sync synchronizes files and folders across computers, drives, and networks with one-way or two-way copying.
Real-time synchronization that monitors folders continuously and syncs changes instantly without manual intervention
Allway Sync is a Windows-based file synchronization utility designed to keep folders, drives, and network locations in perfect harmony by detecting changes and propagating updates bidirectionally or unidirectionally. It supports real-time monitoring, handles large file sets efficiently, and offers modes like mirror, update, and two-way sync with conflict resolution. The tool is particularly useful for backups to USB drives, NAS devices, or shared folders, with a portable version available for on-the-go use.
Pros
- Intuitive wizard for quick job setup
- Free version with solid functionality for light use
- Real-time sync and portable edition
Cons
- Free version limited to 40,000 files per month
- Dated user interface
- Windows-only, no native mobile or cloud sync
Best For
Windows users needing reliable, automated folder syncing across local, network, and removable drives for personal backups.
Pricing
Free Standard edition (40K files/month limit); Pro $25.95 one-time for unlimited syncs.
Roadkil's Unstoppable Copier
specializedRoadkil's Unstoppable Copier recovers and copies files from damaged media by skipping errors and bad sectors.
Skips bad sectors in files and continues copying without stopping
Roadkil's Unstoppable Copier is a free, portable Windows utility specialized in copying files that are locked by other programs or contain bad sectors on damaged media. It skips problematic sectors and continues the operation without halting, making it useful for data recovery scenarios. The tool features a minimalistic interface where users simply select source, destination, and options like overwriting or verifying.
Pros
- Effectively copies locked files and skips bad sectors
- Completely free with no ads or limitations
- Portable and lightweight, no installation required
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like multi-threading or resume capability
- Basic interface with minimal feedback during operation
- Windows-only and hasn't been updated recently
Best For
Users dealing with damaged drives or files locked by other applications who need a simple, no-frills recovery tool.
Pricing
Freeware
Conclusion
Reviewing top file copy software uncovers a diverse set of tools, each with unique strengths. Leading the pack, TeraCopy excels with its reliable speed, verification, and error recovery, claiming the top spot. FastCopy impresses with its ultra-fast transfers across drives and networks, while FreeFileSync stands out as a flexible, open-source choice for synchronization—both solid alternatives for different needs.
Upgrade your file management today—try TeraCopy to experience faster, more secure, and hassle-free copying, moving, and recovering of your files.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
