I am trying to do what many are working on in this forum. I started using iCloud to sync and it worked okay. When I decided OB was going to be my goto app, it made sense to pay for the best sync option. This is where my problems started. Since changing to OB sync, I keep having files disappear. Can someone direct me to a place where I can start over completely one more time? If this doesn’t work, I’m going to have to stop using OB… that is devastating because I really like it. However, I cannot use something I cannot trust.
Things I have tried
What I have tried:
I tried to move my main folder out of iCloud and into my Downloads folder because it does not sync with iCloud.
I tried to make sure all mobile devices are unchecked and so they should not sync the files with icloud.
I have tried to move the folder and rename it.
Nothing is stopping the files from randomly disappearing.
Did you move the vault location before setting up the remote vault? I’m wondering if you had the remote vault set up and then tried moving it.
How specifically did you move the vault? Dragging it in your OS, or using the move vault feature within Obsidian?
If you go to your vault-switcher in Obsidian, can you double-check that the currently loaded vault is actually at the path of where you moved it to? I wonder if you moved it, but Obsidian still thinks it’s in the old location.
2- That’s a good question. Honestly, I don’t remember.
3- I clicked and dragged within icloud, then moved where the apps where pointing within the apps on the different devices.
4- As far as I can tell, the desktop app goes to the folder in my downloads. iPad and phone go to local folders on their device and syncs with Obsidian sync.
If you’re interested in self hosting your own Sync Server check out my solution below
The problem with iOS Obsidian is that you can only sync with iCloud or Obsidian Sync. I discovered that Mobius Sync Pro (one off payment of $5) can tap into the Obsidian Folder in your Files App and you can sync your files for Free up to your own Self Hosted Syncthing Server
It’s not about driving customers away, it’s about educating people about available sync options.
For those who want an easy software as a service solution (SAAS) Obsidian Sync or iCloud is still an option.
It would be nice if Obsidian Sync offered a free tier like Notion does. For those who use Obsidian on multiple devices Obsidian Sync or iCloud would still be easier and quicker to manage but as OP mentioned these services still have some minor issues.
For casual users who value their privacy then Mobius Sync Pro offers another option.
What motivated me to Syncthing was I couldn’t sync Google Drive with Obsidian on iOS. I don’t use my iPad and iPhone enough to justify Obsidian Sync $4usd a month and iOS has reporter issues syncing Obsidian files.
It’s just another option, but I totally understand it’s not for everyone and paying ongoing subscription fees is preferred for some users.
Linux: No specific recommendation due to the variety of filesystems. Just ensure that Obsidian has full read/write access and that no syncing service manages the folder.
To avoid conflicts with syncing services, we recommend storing your Obsidian vaults in the following locations:
This is a frustrating situation, but let’s break down the steps to try and achieve a truly clean, fresh sync with Obsidian, focusing on removing any lingering iCloud interference.
Understanding the Problem:
The core issue seems to be residual iCloud syncing, even after attempts to move or disable it. iCloud’s persistent behavior, especially with cached or hidden files, can cause conflicts.
Steps for a Clean Start (Obsidian Sync):
Backup Everything:
Before doing anything, create a complete backup of your Obsidian vault. Copy the entire folder to a safe location (e.g., an external drive). This is crucial!
Disable iCloud Sync (Thoroughly):
On macOS:
Go to System Preferences/Settings > Apple ID > iCloud Drive > Options.
Go to Finder > iCloud Drive. Delete any Obsidian-related folders or files that remain.
Empty the Trash.
On iOS:
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Drive.
Turn off “Obsidian” or any related apps.
Delete the Obsidian app from your iOS device, then reinstall.
On Windows (if applicable):
Uninstall the iCloud for Windows app.
Delete any remaining iCloud Drive folders.
Clean Up Obsidian Vault:
Create a New, Empty Vault: In Obsidian, create a completely new, empty vault in a location that is definitely not being synced by any cloud service (e.g., your Documents folder).
Move Notes (Carefully):
If you absolutely need to keep your old notes, copy them one folder at a time from your backup into the new vault.
After copying each folder, thoroughly test Obsidian to ensure no files disappear.
If files disappear, the problem is within that specific folder, and you’ll need to investigate further.
If possible, start with only a few notes to test the new sync.
Configure Obsidian Sync:
Connect to Obsidian Sync: In your new, clean vault, connect to Obsidian Sync.
Initial Sync: Allow Obsidian Sync to perform a complete initial sync.
Test Thoroughly: Add new notes, edit existing notes, and create folders. Monitor for any file disappearance.
Check Sync Settings: Ensure that your sync settings are correct on all devices.
Mobile Devices (Clean Reinstallation):
Delete and Reinstall: Delete the Obsidian app from your mobile devices (iOS/Android).
Reinstall: Reinstall the Obsidian app.
Connect to Sync: Connect to your Obsidian Sync account and sync your vault.
Troubleshooting:
Obsidian Logs: Check the Obsidian logs for any error messages.
Internet Connection: Ensure a stable internet connection on all devices.
Conflicting Plugins: Disable any third-party plugins that might be causing conflicts.
File System Issues: Run a disk check on your computer to rule out file system errors.
Important Notes:
The most important step is to make sure that iCloud is completely disabled.
Start with a clean vault and add your old notes back in small increments.
Test thoroughly after each step.
If you are still having issues, contact the obsidian support team.
By following these steps, you should be able to achieve a clean and reliable Obsidian Sync setup.
