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rdiff-backup vs Systemback

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

rdiff-backup icon
rdiff-backup
Systemback icon
Systemback

rdiff-backup vs Systemback: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

rdiff-backup: rdiff-backup is an open source utility that backs up one directory to another, storing incremental differences instead of full file copies to save space. It supports remoting backups over a network.

Systemback: Systemback is an open-source system restore and backup software for Linux. It allows users to easily create system restore points and backups that can be used to revert their system to a previous working state.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature rdiff-backup Systemback
Sugggest Score — —
Category Backup & Sync Os & Utilities
Pricing Open Source Open Source

Product Overview

rdiff-backup
rdiff-backup

Description: rdiff-backup is an open source utility that backs up one directory to another, storing incremental differences instead of full file copies to save space. It supports remoting backups over a network.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Systemback
Systemback

Description: Systemback is an open-source system restore and backup software for Linux. It allows users to easily create system restore points and backups that can be used to revert their system to a previous working state.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

rdiff-backup
rdiff-backup Features
  • Incremental backup utility
  • Preserves different versions of files
  • Supports backing up to remote servers over SSH
  • Preserves file permissions, ownerships, and timestamps
  • Compression of backup data
  • Encryption of backup data
Systemback
Systemback Features
  • System restore functionality
  • Full system backup and restore
  • Scheduled backups
  • Bare metal restore option
  • Live system backup
  • Supports multiple filesystems (ext4, btrfs, xfs, etc.)
  • Integration with GRUB
  • Command line and GUI interfaces

Pros & Cons Analysis

rdiff-backup
rdiff-backup

Pros

  • Space efficient incremental backups
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Cross-platform support
  • Open source with community support
  • Flexible backup configurations

Cons

  • Slower than full file copy backups
  • No graphical user interface
  • Steep learning curve for advanced features
  • Limited reporting capabilities
  • No built-in backup catalog
Systemback
Systemback

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Easy to use interface
  • Flexible backup options
  • Bare metal restore capability
  • Active community support

Cons

  • Limited documentation
  • No cloud storage integration
  • Restore process can be slow
  • Some stability issues reported

Pricing Comparison

rdiff-backup
rdiff-backup
  • Open Source
Systemback
Systemback
  • Open Source

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Learn More About Each Product

rdiff-backup
rdiff-backup
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Systemback
Systemback
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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