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rdiff-backup vs TimeShift

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

rdiff-backup icon
rdiff-backup
TimeShift icon
TimeShift

rdiff-backup vs TimeShift: 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.

TimeShift: TimeShift is an open source system restore utility for Linux. It takes incremental snapshots of the file system at regular intervals and allows restoring the system to a previous state in case of data loss or system failure. It is lightweight and easy to configure.

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 TimeShift
Sugggest Score — —
Category Backup & Sync System & Hardware
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

TimeShift
TimeShift

Description: TimeShift is an open source system restore utility for Linux. It takes incremental snapshots of the file system at regular intervals and allows restoring the system to a previous state in case of data loss or system failure. It is lightweight and easy to configure.

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
TimeShift
TimeShift Features
  • Incremental file system snapshots
  • Allows restoring system to previous state
  • Lightweight and easy to configure
  • Open source

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
TimeShift
TimeShift

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Easy rollback of system changes
  • Low resource usage
  • Automatic snapshots on schedule

Cons

  • Manual restore process
  • Limited scheduling options
  • No Windows support
  • Potential performance impact

Pricing Comparison

rdiff-backup
rdiff-backup
  • Open Source
TimeShift
TimeShift
  • Open Source

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rdiff-backup
rdiff-backup
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TimeShift
TimeShift
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