Syncthing Guide for Handhelds! (Windows/Linux/Android) (RetroArch/Dolphin/PS2/PPSSPP & More!)

In this guide, we're going to install Syncthing to sync saves, states, settings & ROMs across multiple devices, Windows/Linux/Android as well as most any emulator, RetroArch/Dolphin/NetherSX2/PCSX2 and more!

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Disclaimer: Devices are typically sent to me for review by different manufacturer's or resellers. All opinions are my own, they have not seen the video ahead of time and no money has exchanged hands. Or, put simply, the review is always my authentic opinion and words.
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Timestamps
00:00 - What is Syncthing?
02:21 - Not a beginner's guide
03:11 - Syncthing vs. AutoSync/FolderSync
04:00 - Number One, you need a Prime device
05:05 - All other devices should be empty
06:19 - RetroArch Settings
08:09 - RetroArch States is complicated
09:30 - You need to know paths for RetroArch
11:36 - Dolphin Settings
12:19 - NetherSX2/PCSX2 Settings
13:53 - PPSSPP Settings
14:34 - Other Emulators
15:08 - Syncthing Install
17:09 - First Sync, RetroArch Saves/States
23:04 - Android/Windows Permission Issues
25:13 - Ignore Patterns
27:58 - Wrap Up Tips

[JoeysRetroHandhelds]

Note - If you're running Syncthing-fork, the setting to allow access to the Android/data section (only if your device needs it, so not applicable to rooted devices or Odin 2), is in Behavior, Run Syncthing as Superuser then restart the device. Then, make sure you use the web GUI and type out the full path, it'll let you sync. Tested with RG556/RG Cube.

You also want to make sure you're accessing the Android/data partition using how I showed on screen, and not by browsing folders. You need to enter the path's, text based. An easy way is installing Solid Explorer, then navigating in it to the path you need, then push and hold on that text and copy the path to copy the full path easily.

Regarding Switch saves, I figured out the solution. You want to sync the entire nand folder, and not just the saves subfolder inside. This way, when you sync to another device, it keeps your same main user ID and so it works. Just remember, delete the contents of the nand folder on any new device you're adding first.

[petervladyevich]

Thanks for this video Joey. It will suit me perfectly when I am advanced lol.
In fact I am still a beginner lol.(updating my system)
Have a nice day Joey.

[michaelbenny]

Great guide, and thank you for the warnings

[TruSuCiO]

PlexPC name and 24/7 pc...do I smell a home network/server set up vid guide coming soon?😂

[Opebin]

edit: (RG Cube actually can Syncthing for PS2 saves, I missed the step restarting after turning on syncthing as superuser)

I really loved the video from RGC on syncthing, got me started with RA, 3DS, DS, PSP syncing but was having trouble with PS2 and couldn't find answers if it was possible, thanks a bunch. Seems like the RG Cube is simply out of luck for PS2 save syncing and won't ever be improved with the development halted / scoped storage requirement, but oh well was worth a shot

[eurosoe]

You answered my questions about Syncthing vs Foldersync. I find foldersync to be very slow but setting it all up was a lot of work and I don’t know if I want to start all over again 😅

Is it worth switching over to and starting over?

[ben-tendo]

Tried doing this multiple times in the past between Anbernic / Steam Deck and Windows and no matter what I do it doesn't see the saves across devices.

[ChrisJansen]

Huh, did you root your Odin? My Odin 2 won't let me browse into those folders even with Advanced Folder Picker enabled.

[sudoo]

Joey make mobox guide please i tried setting it up 3 times and gave up (odin2mini user)