Selectively Sync SharePoint Folders with OneDrive on a Mac
Question details
The user wants to sync only specific SharePoint folders with OneDrive on a Mac instead of an entire document library, and use Files On-Demand to limit local storage usage.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive for Mac and SharePoint Online
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- A MacBook has limited disk space, but syncing an entire SharePoint Documents library would consume hundreds of gigabytes.
- Observed behavior
- Syncing the full library uses excessive local storage; folder-level sync and Files On-Demand are needed.
Before changing sync settings, confirm you are signed in to the correct SharePoint site in OneDrive and know which folders you need offline. Close any open files in those folders to avoid sync conflicts.
Sync a Specific SharePoint Folder from the Browser
Use this method when the SharePoint command bar includes a Sync option for the folder you need. It avoids syncing the entire document library.
This is the most direct way to limit local storage when SharePoint supports folder-level sync for the selected location.
In your Mac browser, go to the SharePoint site and navigate to the specific document folder you want to sync.
On the SharePoint command bar, click Sync and allow the browser to open Microsoft OneDrive if prompted.
Follow the OneDrive prompts to complete setup, then check Finder or the OneDrive folder to confirm only that folder is syncing.
Choose Folders and Enable Files On-Demand in OneDrive Preferences
Use this method when a library is already synced or when the Sync command for a specific folder is not available.
Use WPS Office to Open and Edit SharePoint and OneDrive Office Files on Your Mac
WPS Office is a free, lightweight Office alternative that opens, edits, and saves Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files after they are synced or downloaded from SharePoint or OneDrive. It offers a familiar ribbon interface and strong format compatibility for a seamless move from Microsoft Office, without changing OneDrive sync settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose only one SharePoint folder to sync on a Mac?
Yes, open the specific SharePoint folder in your browser and select Sync if the command is available. If not, you may need to sync the library first and then adjust folders in OneDrive Preferences > Account > Choose folders.
How do I enable Files On-Demand in OneDrive on a Mac?
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the Mac menu bar, select Help & Settings > Preferences, open the Account tab, and enable Files On-Demand. Files then remain online until you open them.
Why does syncing a SharePoint library fill my MacBook storage?
Syncing can download all files locally by default. A large SharePoint Documents library may use hundreds of gigabytes, so selective folder sync and Files On-Demand are recommended on Macs with limited disk space.
Can WPS Office open files from OneDrive or SharePoint?
WPS Office can open and edit Microsoft Office files once they are available on your Mac, but it does not control OneDrive sync settings. You can save files in Office formats and upload them back to SharePoint.
