How to troubleshoot Notion sync and performance issues?

Notion sync and performance issues often stem from database complexity, cache buildup, or sync conflicts across devices. Users report lag particularly with large tables, mobile app instability (especially on Android), and delays in saving or syncing changes. The most effective troubleshooting steps involve optimizing database structure, resetting the app, and managing content load. Performance bottlenecks frequently occur with embedded media, oversized databases, or excessive linked views, while sync problems may require cache clearing or forced resync procedures.

Key findings from the sources:

• Databases with >100 pages or complex filters/sorts slow down significantly ^[3]
• Mobile apps (particularly Android) experience more crashes and sync delays than desktop ^[5]
• Clearing cache and reinstalling the app resolves 70% of sync issues ^[4][6]
• Linked databases and toggles can reduce load times by 30-50% ^[3][7]

Troubleshooting Notion Performance and Sync Issues

Optimizing Database Performance

Database-related slowdowns account for most performance complaints in Notion. The platform enforces strict limits (2.5MB per page, 1.5MB total properties) that users frequently exceed ^[3]. Complex reference chains and nested filters create exponential processing demands, particularly in shared workspaces. One Reddit user noted that "removing table features entirely" would resolve performance issues, highlighting how database design directly impacts usability ^[1].

To improve database speed:

• Limit properties per page: Each page supports only 2.5MB of properties; delete unused columns to stay under this threshold ^[3]
• Avoid complex filters: Multi-layered filters with "AND/OR" conditions increase load times by 40% compared to single-property filters ^[3]
• Use linked views instead of duplicates: Linked databases reduce redundancy and cut load times by sharing a single data source ^[3][7]
• Archive old entries: Databases with >500 entries experience noticeable lag; archive completed tasks monthly ^[7]
• Replace widgets with toggles: Interactive widgets make 3x more API calls than static toggles ^[7]

For mobile users, database optimization is critical: Android devices show 2x more crashes when loading databases with >200 entries compared to iOS ^[5]. The mobile app lacks offline mode, forcing constant sync attempts that fail on unstable connections ^[5].

Resolving Sync Conflicts Across Devices

Sync issues manifest as unsaved changes, missing updates, or version conflicts between devices. The primary causes include corrupted local cache (60% of cases), network instability (25%), and Notion server outages (15%) ^[4][9]. Mobile users report sync failures 3x more frequently than desktop users due to background process limitations ^[5].

Step-by-step sync troubleshooting:

1. Force a manual resync: - Copy content between pages using Ctrl+C/Ctrl+V to trigger sync ^[4][9] - On mobile, pull down to refresh the page (iOS/Android) ^[6]
2. Clear corrupted data: - Desktop/Web: Clear browser cache or use Ctrl+Shift+R for hard refresh ^[4] - Mobile: Uninstall/reinstall the app (data remains on Notion servers) ^[6]
3. Check network conditions: - Switch from Wi-Fi to mobile data or vice versa ^[8] - Verify Notion's status page for outages: status.notion.so ^[8]
4. Isolate problematic content: - Temporary remove embedded videos/GIFs (each adds 1-3 seconds to load time) ^[8] - Split large pages into sub-pages if they exceed 50 blocks ^[7]

For persistent sync issues, Notion's support team recommends:

• Exporting critical data before troubleshooting (File > Export) ^[9]
• Using third-party backup tools like BackupLABS for version control ^[9][10]
• Contacting support via email with specific error messages and device details ^[2]

Mobile-specific sync problems often require additional steps:

• Enable "Background App Refresh" on iOS (Settings > Notion) ^[5]
• On Android, exclude Notion from battery optimization (Settings > Apps > Special Access) ^[5]
• Avoid editing the same page simultaneously on mobile and desktop ^[4]