Obsidian Vault Backup Options

Obsidian users can choose from several backup solutions, including:

• Obsidian Sync: Priced at $10 per month or $96 annually, this is the most dependable option.
• iCloud: Free, but often slow, with potential syncing issues.
• GitHub: A free option excellent for version control, though it requires some technical expertise.
• Other cloud services: Free if you already have subscriptions.
• External hard drives: Also free, but the security depends on the drive's condition and location.

I've tested most options except for Obsidian Sync, as I'm hesitant to pay for a service I can manage adequately for free. It's true that Obsidian Sync offers the best reliability and version control, but knowing my tendencies, I'd still seek additional backups even if I were a subscriber.

Section 1.1: Reasons to Sync Your Vault with iCloud

Here are four reasons why syncing your vault with iCloud might be sufficient for your needs:

1. Satisfaction with Free Options: If you're content with what’s provided for free, iCloud might work well for you.
2. iOS Access: For using Obsidian on iPads or iPhones, iCloud is essential.
3. Tolerance for Slower Startup Times: While iCloud-only backups can be slow to update, if you primarily use your Mac, this may not be a significant issue.
4. File Restoration: iCloud, while lacking online text file previews, can help recover accidentally deleted files. Other services like Dropbox and BackBlaze offer similar recovery features.

Section 1.2: Sync vs. Backup – Know the Difference

Regardless of your chosen sync solution, it’s crucial to consider version control. Without it, you lack a genuine backup of your work. My combined backup and sync strategy looks like this:

Why ChronoSync Express Over SyncThing?

After several failed attempts to get SyncThing operational, I switched to ChronoSync Express (CSE). While SyncThing has its advocates, I found CSE to be straightforward and efficient. As a Setapp subscriber, I can use it without extra cost.

Setting up CSE was quick; I was operational in under two minutes. Now, any modifications to my iCloud vault are automatically mirrored to my designated backup folder, which I chose to be Dropbox. Both versions reside on my hard drive, and with BackBlaze backing them up, I can rest easy knowing my data is secure.

Bidirectional backups are also an option, allowing changes in Dropbox to reflect back to iCloud. However, I prefer to keep my primary vault untouched, reducing the risk of errors.

Things I Appreciate About ChronoSync Express: - Quick and user-friendly setup - Scheduled backup options - Minimal interference during use - Choice between one-way and bi-directional syncing - No additional costs due to my Setapp subscription

One important note when backing up an Obsidian vault with CSE: you must adjust a setting in the Options section. Under Special File/Folder Handling, uncheck the Ignore invisibles option.

This adjustment is necessary because Obsidian contains critical files in a hidden .obsidian folder within your vault. You can reveal it in Finder by pressing Command + Shift + Period, but be cautious about altering any files unless you fully understand the implications.

ChronoSync Express is priced at $24.99, but it’s included in my Setapp subscription, meaning I incur no additional charges. There are numerous other reasons to consider Setapp; I’ve written several articles discussing its value, so feel free to explore those. For a one-month free trial, use the code ELLANE when signing up—this is an affiliate link, and I earn a commission if you choose to subscribe after clicking it. I’ve been a satisfied Setapp user long before receiving any rewards for referrals and only endorse products I genuinely believe in.