COMPARE · APPROACHES
ZIP archive vs folder sync for NotebookLM backup
Short answer
A ZIP archive is a one-off snapshot of a NotebookLM notebook in a single file; one full archive is free. Folder sync writes the same content into a folder you choose and, on later runs, writes only what changed without deleting local files. Folder sync is a Pro feature.
Side by side
| ZIP archive | Folder sync | |
|---|---|---|
| Result | One .zip file | Files in a folder |
| Repeat runs | A new full ZIP each time | Only changes are written |
| Good for | A dated backup, moving a notebook | A living copy, an Obsidian vault |
| Restore to a new notebook | Yes, with Pro | Create a ZIP first |
| Plan | 1 free, unlimited with Pro | Pro |
Which to choose
- Choose ZIP archive if you want a dated copy to store or to restore into another account.
- Choose Folder sync if you keep working in the notebook and want a folder that stays current.
Free or Pro?
The basics are free; the advanced options listed on this page need Ultra Exporter Pro. Pro covers the extension only; it does not include a Google subscription or raise NotebookLM's own limits. Current prices are on the pricing page.
Frequently asked questions
ZIP archive or Folder sync: which is better?
Neither in general. Choose ZIP archive if you want a dated copy to store or to restore into another account. Choose Folder sync if you keep working in the notebook and want a folder that stays current.
Does folder sync delete files when I delete a note?
No. It never deletes local files, so removed items remain in the folder until you delete them.
Related guides
Back up a whole NotebookLM notebook as a ZIP archive. You get one ZIP with folders for sources, notes, reports, chats and Studio files, a README.md index and.
Sync a NotebookLM notebook to a local folder. You get a folder on your disk that mirrors the archive.
Folder sync writes a NotebookLM notebook to a folder on your computer and keeps it current.
Batch export saves several NotebookLM notes and reports as separate files in one go, zipped together.
A link source asks NotebookLM to fetch a web page itself; it keeps the URL and works for public pages.
The built-in option sends one NotebookLM note or report to a new Google Doc in your Drive. A Word export creates a .docx file on your computer that opens in.
Downloading saves one NotebookLM Audio Overview as a file, which is free and enough for occasional listening.
Both create a new NotebookLM notebook from an existing one. A template reuses the setup, meaning tags, collection, reference sources and a starter note, for.