10 Most Recommended Dropbox Alternatives [Free & Paid Tools]
"When I shoot multiple weddings in a month, I'm unable to upload everything. I can't tell clients, "You'll need to wait a month until Dropbox gives me more space". Does anyone have some recommendations for Dropbox alternatives that would better meet my needs?" -- from Reddit
What is Dropbox? What are its characteristics? How to evaluate this product? Here's a table to illustrate it all:
|
Aspect
|
Description
|
|
Dropbox Review |
Dropbox, once a cloud storage pioneer, streamlined file sharing with its magic folder. However, it has since expanded beyond basic storage, offering a range of additional features. |
|
Dropbox Backup Review |
Dropbox provides top-tier backup and storage solutions for individuals and businesses, boasting strong security and effective collaboration tools. However, its lack of zero-knowledge encryption is a notable drawback. |
|
Dropbox Cloud Storage Review |
Dropbox leads in cloud storage, offering robust solutions for both personal and business use, including real-time collaboration, integrations, and advanced controls. However, its pricing is high, and it lacks zero-knowledge encryption. |
|
Dropbox Pricing |
Prices range from $9.99/month to $24/user/month. |
|
Dropbox Features |
Streamlines file upload and organization, facilitates access from any location, fosters seamless collaboration, and integrates with various tools. |
|
Dropbox Speed |
Dropbox syncs files and folders quickly, outperforming competitors like Google Drive in speed tests. |
|
Dropbox Security |
Dropbox provides features like password protection, expiring links, and download permissions. |
Dropbox, however, also comes with some demerits, including limited free storage space, potential security concerns, dependency on Internet connectivity for access, and occasional sync issues, relatively expensive pricing plans. Fret not! Read on for its best substitutes in this passage.
Top 1: Best Dropbox Alternative - Assistant for Android
Although Dropbox stresses that it is secure and has some ability to manage mobile content, its security has always been questioned. In addition, it is highly dependent on WiFi, and occasionally various problems occur during use. In order for users to quickly access the most cost-effective alternative to Dropbox, we shall include important information about MobiKin Assistant for Android (Win and Mac) directly in this section.
Why pick MobiKin Assistant for Android?
> Outstanding Android content transfer to copy data between Android and PC/Mac.
> Remarkable Android backup tool to back up and restore Android in one click.
> Best Android data manager to manage various files with ease.
> Apply to various data types: Contacts, call logs, SMS, photos, music, videos, applications, books, etc.
> Get on well with almost all Android phones or tablets.
> Easy to use, quick to process, and instant technical support.
> It won't let out your privacy.
How can you use MobiKin Assistant for Android?
To begin, ensure your phone is connected:
Launch Assistant for Android on your computer post download and installation. Connect your Android device to the computer via USB or Wi-Fi. Follow the straightforward prompts to have the device recognized.
Choice 1: Transfer data from Android to computer selectively
Choose the data types and select specific items for transfer. Then, click "Export" to save the files on your computer. To import data from the computer to Android, click "Import" from the top screen.
Choice 2: Back up and restore your Android content in bulk
Navigate to "Super Toolkit" and access "Backup" and "Restore". Click "Back Up" to store all Android files on your computer in batches.
Choice 3: Manage your Android phone on your computer
Upon reaching the main screen of the program, utilize buttons like "Add", "New", "Edit", "Move", "Uninstall", "Install", "Delete", etc., for convenient device management on your computer.
Video Guide:
Top 2: Google Drive
When you think of cloud storage, Google Drive is probably an excellent service that comes to mind - and with good reason. Google Drive lets you store and sync files across multiple devices and back them up, ensuring they are never lost. It allows easy collaboration, with everyone able to edit files and perform tasks simultaneously without hassle.
This service offers 15 GB of free storage, which can be expanded to 100 GB for $1.99/month as part of the Google One Basic Plan, with annual discounts available.
Why We Like It:
- Integrates with Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides for viewing and editing files without third-party apps.
- Allows offline access and automatic synchronization once reconnected.
- Provides a convenient advanced search with multiple filters.
Why We Don't Like It:
- Offers limited free storage of space.
- A Google account is required for optimal use.
- Not all features and file types are fully supported for offline editing.
There are open-source alternatives to Dropbox, such as Nextcloud and ownCloud. These platforms provide similar cloud storage and file-sharing capabilities. However, users may not have access to the same level of dedicated support and troubleshooting assistance offered by them.
You May Also Like: If you accidentally delete important content on your device, you can restore missing files with Dropbox when you have a previous backup.
Top 3: OneDrive
Microsoft OneDrive offers 1TB of cloud storage with features like collaboration, document scanning, and Personal Vault for added security. The free version provides 5GB of storage. Integration with Microsoft 365 allows seamless sharing and collaboration within the Microsoft ecosystem. Security features include TLS protocol during transit and AES 256-bit encryption at rest. Apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
Why We Like It:
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365.
- Utilizes block-level syncing for efficient file updates.
- Automatic synchronization across all devices.
Why We Don't Like It:
- Microsoft's data retention policies range from 30 days to 3 months.
- Lacks zero-knowledge security.
- Optimal usage requires a Microsoft account.
Top 4: Amazon Drive
Amazon Drive, a cloud storage service from Amazon, offers secure file backups, easy sharing and previewing, and on-demand photo printing through Amazon Prints. Accessible with just an Amazon account, it provides storage for images, movies, and data across multiple devices.
Storage plans range from 100GB to 30TB, catering to various needs. Amazon Prime members receive 5 GB of free storage, unlimited photo storage, and seamless integration with Amazon services, making it a valuable option for Prime subscribers.
Why We Like It:
- Amazon Prime membership offers unlimited photo storage.
- Multiple options are available for sharing your content.
- Automatic and regular backups are in place.
Why We Don't Like It:
- None of the premium options provide limitless storage.
- Dependence on AWS infrastructure may pose risks.
- Obtaining technical support during peak times can be difficult.
Top 5: Box
Box is a cloud storage service designed for businesses and teams, offering productivity tools and robust security features. It supports 120 file types, enables seamless communication with note-sharing, and integrates with 1500+ apps like Microsoft Office and Slack. Its pricing starts at $6/user/month for basic features, with higher tiers offering unlimited storage and additional perks for $30/user/month and up to $42/user/month.
Why We Like It:
- Productivity and collaboration are enhanced with native applications.
- Simplified workflow with editing, reviewing, sharing files, and task assignments.
- A plethora of business tools are available.
Why We Don't Like It:
- Additional cost for private encryption.
- Considerable expenses involved.
- Absence of lifetime storage options.
Extended Reading:
Top 6: Sync
Sync.com is a top Dropbox alternative, offering a free plan with 5GB storage and 30-day file versioning. With real-time backup and sync, plus granular permissions, it's great for collaboration. Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and the web, Sync.com emphasizes privacy and security, offering end-to-end encryption for all files stored on its platform.
Why We Like It:
- Year-long file versioning.
- Competitive pricing.
- Offline access and a 99% uptime guarantee.
Why We Don't Like It:
- Limited integrations with popular apps.
- Its user interface could use improvement.
- Varied experiences with Sync.com's customer support.
Top 7: Tresorit
Tresorit supports multiple platforms for seamless collaboration and ensures file security with enterprise-level encryption. Its editing badge feature prevents simultaneous editing conflicts, while customizable sharing rights enhance organizational security.
The free starter tier provides 3GB storage across 2 devices, with premium plans starting at $18 per month for up to 1TB storage and access across 10 devices. Tresorit's user-friendly interface and resources page streamline usage across desktop and mobile platforms.
Why We Like It:
- Cross-platform compatibility.
- Enterprise-grade security measures.
- Advanced file organization and secure sharing capabilities.
Why We Don't Like It:
- Lack of prominence and features compared to larger competitors.
- Limited storage capacity.
- Additional charges for certain features.
Top 8: pCloud
pCloud provides secure cloud storage with TLS/SSL encryption and three server backups, even in the free version with 10GB storage. Upgrade options offer 500GB or 1TB for sharing and collaboration. Features include automatic photo uploads, 30-day file versioning, and built-in video and audio players. Further, this tool lets users enjoy Swiss data security with client-side encryption and zero-knowledge privacy, accessible via mobile, desktop apps, and web browsers.
Why We Like It:
- Consistently excels in reliability and uptime.
- Offers various options for file sharing.
- Comes with a built-in media player.
Why We Don't Like It:
- Additional charges for pCloud Crypto.
- Limited compatibility with other services.
- Client-side encryption may be restrictive.
Top 9: MEGA
MEGA stands out as a top free Dropbox alternative, offering 20GB of free storage. You can boost this by completing tasks like downloading the desktop and mobile apps, each providing 5GB valid for one year. Inviting friends to install the MEGA app also earns you 5GB per referral.
In addition to its generous storage, MEGA prioritizes top-notch security. Users maintain control with their own encryption keys, ensuring exclusive access to their data. The service's intuitive interface adds to its appeal.
Why We Like It:
- Comprehensive end-to-end encryption.
- Unlimited file versioning and retention.
- Annual publication of transparency reports.
Why We Don't Like It:
- Lacks the high profile of larger competitors.
- Limited collaboration capabilities.
- Complexity in the Free plan structure.
Top 10: IDrive
Like Dropbox, IDrive combines backup and cloud storage but with fewer collaborative tools. This service offers basic sharing features, including a generous 10GB free tier and a 10TB paid plan at $6.22 monthly. IDrive provides various cloud storage features, desktop apps for Windows and Mac, and optional backup for Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 accounts for added security.
Why We Like It:
- Affordable pricing with excellent value.
- Automatic synchronization with designated folders.
- Ability to customize backup schedules.
Why We Don't Like It:
- Lack of monthly subscription options.
- Absence of collaboration features.
- Limited sharing capabilities with IDrive.
- Users experienced challenges with support response times and quality.
Conclusion - How to Select the Optimal Alternative to Dropbox?
When selecting a Dropbox alternative, prioritize security, price, scalability, integration, features, and pricing. Seek providers with robust security measures like affordable pricing plans. Employee feedback helps identify essential features. Opt for user-friendly tools that scale with your business and integrate smoothly with existing workflows. Choose features tailored to your needs, such as advanced functions like for managing device content.
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