The days when Dropbox ruled the world of cloud storage are long gone. Now, there are plenty of providers that challenge the sector's pioneer. So, which of Dropbox's competitors is worth considering?
Let's look at some of the best alternatives to Dropbox and see how these cloud storage services stack up.
What Are the Drawbacks of Dropbox?
Dropbox continues to perform well, as our review showed. We consider it a good all-around solution because it offers plenty of features and office tools while providing solid sync performance and high security standards. However, it isn't without disadvantages:
End-to-end encryption only in the Business Plus plan
Dropbox finally added end-to-end encryption in 2024, but it's only available to Business Plus subscribers. Other cloud storage services offer E2E protection across all their plans.Pricey and few plans to choose from
Compared to other cloud storage services, Dropbox is pretty expensive. This is partly due to how their plans are structured: there's no budget-friendly starter option for storage needs under 2 TB. If you only need 100 GB, 500 GB, or 1 TB, other cloud storage services are much cheaper. Dropbox is also very expensive for storage needs exceeding 5 TB.Only 2 GB of free storage
Dropbox is stingy with free storage. Almost all providers in our comparison offer more - MEGA gives away ten times as much.High CPU usage in our test
In our performance test, Dropbox ranked in the middle. However, its CPU usage was unusually high.Clunky collaboration tools
Dropbox Paper is the platform's document collaboration suite. However, it can't compete with Google's and Microsoft's office tools: the platform isn't as smooth or user-friendly.Past security incidents
Dropbox has been the subject of several leaks and hacker attacks. Almost 70 million passwords were stolen in a major data breach in 2012. Even now, Dropbox remains a popular target for phishing and other attacks due to its popularity.US-based company
Dropbox and most of its servers are based in the US. This means it must follow US laws like the CLOUD Act, which requires cloud providers to share data with US authorities upon request. As a result, there are privacy concerns, especially since personal plans lack end-to-end encryption.Negative customer feedback
Review aggregators like Trustpilot don't do Dropbox any favors. Users often criticize its support, pricing, and security issues. Other cloud storage services typically get better user reviews.
The Best Dropbox Alternatives
Picking the best cloud storage alternative to Dropbox depends on what you don't like about Dropbox or which features you're after. We've put together a list of favorites that cover different needs:
Google Drive: Cheaper & Better for Teamwork
Google Drive* is a cloud storage solution that comes with every Google account. If you use Gmail or an Android phone, you already have a Google Drive account.
The platform's integration into Google's ecosystem is its biggest advantage: While collaboration in Dropbox feels more like a "nice extra," it's part of Google Drive's DNA.
Google Drive is a good alternative to Dropbox if you:
need affordable cloud storage with lots of free space.
already use Google tools like Docs, Sheets, Meet, or Calendar.
want to work on documents with others quickly and easily.
are okay with Google (theoretically) having access to your data.
What Does Google Drive Do Better Than Dropbox?
Google Drive beats Dropbox in collaboration and offers better value for money overall.
More free storage
While Dropbox only offers 2 GB in its free version, Google Drive gives you 15 GB of storage space at no cost.Better collaboration features
Working together is simpler with Google Drive than with Dropbox. Its office tools are faster and more user-friendly, plus Google's office apps fit perfectly into the Google ecosystem, which makes workflows smoother.More user-friendly interface
Google's interface is streamlined and better organized than Dropbox's, making it easier to use, especially for beginners.
Google Drive was built for cloud-based collaboration.
Drawbacks: Where Does Google Drive Fall Short Compared to Dropbox?
While Google Drive is handy, Dropbox offers more control over security, syncing, and file sharing.
No end-to-end encryption
Although Google encrypts your data on its servers, the company can still access it. Unlike Dropbox, which offers true end-to-end encryption in its business plans, Google Drive completely lacks this feature.Limited sync options
Google Drive is less flexible with syncing. It uses a master folder system, and unlike Dropbox, you can't selectively sync files. It also lacks advanced features like bandwidth controls and LAN transfers.Limited sharing features
Google Drive users get less control over sharing. You can't password-protect shared links or set expiration dates for them.
MEGA: More Free Storage and Better Performance
MEGA* is a cloud storage service from New Zealand that markets itself as a privacy-focused alternative to providers like Dropbox and Google Drive. MEGA includes end-to-end encryption by default. But that's not its only advantage - MEGA actually ranked first in our comparison of the best cloud storage services.
MEGA is a good alternative to Dropbox if you:
want cloud storage with built-in end-to-end encryption and enhanced privacy protection.
need lots of free storage (20 GB).
care about fast syncing and high upload and download speeds.
can do without a built-in web office and advanced collaboration features.
How Is MEGA Better Than Dropbox?
MEGA stands out for its privacy features, but it also beats Dropbox on price and performance.
Built-in end-to-end encryption
While Dropbox only offers E2E encryption in its Business Plus plan, all MEGA users get it. This means MEGA can't access your data.More free storage
Compared to MEGA's 20 GB of free storage, Dropbox's 2 GB is underwhelming.Faster syncing
In our performance tests, MEGA had better upload and download speeds than Dropbox and used less CPU power.Simpler, cleaner interface
Since MEGA has fewer features than Dropbox, it's more straightforward to use.
MEGA is our top pick for cloud storage.
Disadvantages: What Makes MEGA Worse Than Dropbox?
Unlike Dropbox, which is an all-in-one solution, MEGA focuses on basic cloud storage features. While this has its benefits, be prepared for fewer features overall.
No built-in office tools
While you can share files with others, you can't edit documents directly in the cloud or work on them together. This makes MEGA less suitable as a collaboration platform.Limited features
MEGA offers fewer features and settings than Dropbox. File syncing isn't as flexible, you'll have to do without things like LAN transfer, and sharing options aren't as extensive as Dropbox's.
Microsoft OneDrive: Cloud Storage for Windows Users Who Love to Collaborate
OneDrive* is Microsoft's cloud storage solution that works smoothly with Windows and Microsoft 365. If you regularly use Word, Excel, or PowerPoint or already have a Microsoft 365 subscription, OneDrive is a natural choice for your cloud storage needs.
OneDrive is a good alternative to Dropbox if you:
Use Windows and/or Microsoft 365 and want cloud storage that fits perfectly with your software.
Want to work (together) in familiar programs like Word, Excel, or PowerPoint in the cloud.
Don't need end-to-end encryption and are okay with Microsoft potentially having access to your data.
What Makes OneDrive Better Than Dropbox?
Microsoft has a home-field advantage when it comes to collaboration and editing documents - after all, OneDrive comes bundled with the world's most popular operating system and office suite.
Perfect Windows integration
OneDrive is super convenient for Windows users: It comes pre-installed on Windows devices and works seamlessly with Microsoft Office. Dropbox Paper can't compete with that.Cheaper (for small storage needs) and more free storage
OneDrive costs less than Dropbox if you don't need much storage and provides more free storage (5 GB) too.Better performance
OneDrive beat Dropbox in our performance test: It had slightly faster upload speeds and used much less CPU power.More admin tools and business settings
If you need cloud storage for a larger company, OneDrive is the better choice: You'll get many more settings than you would with Dropbox.
Dropbox Paper can't match Microsoft's Office tools.
Drawbacks: Where OneDrive Falls Short Compared to Dropbox
OneDrive shines in the Microsoft world, but it has some limitations outside of it.
No end-to-end encryption
Like Google, Microsoft doesn't offer zero-knowledge protection. This means no end-to-end security.Less flexible sync options
OneDrive only offers basic sync settings. Unlike with Dropbox, selective syncing isn't possible with OneDrive.Fewer multimedia collaboration features
OneDrive isn't always the better platform for teamwork: Dropbox is better for working with multimedia files like videos and images.Lower maximum file size
OneDrive's file size limit is 250 GB. With Dropbox, you can store files up to 2 TB.
pCloud: Secure Cloud Storage With Optional E2E Encryption
pCloud* is a Swiss cloud storage service that markets itself as the "best, secure Dropbox alternative." While that's just ad copy, they're not entirely wrong. When it comes to privacy, pCloud does offer some things that Dropbox doesn't.
pCloud is a good alternative to Dropbox if you:
need cloud storage with E2E encryption for your sensitive data.
want high-speed file syncing.
prefer a long-term storage solution you can purchase a lifetime subscription for.
don't need real-time collaboration or built-in office tools.
What Makes pCloud Better Than Dropbox?
pCloud beats Dropbox in data privacy, performance, and cost:
End-to-end encryption for individual users
With the "pCloud Crypto" feature, you can add end-to-end encryption to specific folders, preventing pCloud from accessing them. While this feature costs extra, it's available for all plans - unlike Dropbox.Faster syncing
In our review, pCloud had better upload and download speeds than Dropbox. It also used less CPU power during syncing.Cheaper with more free storage
pCloud offers 10 GB of free storage, and all of its plans cost less than Dropbox's equivalents. They also have an affordable 500 GB plan for users who need less storage.Lifetime plans
While Dropbox (like most cloud storage services) only offers monthly or yearly subscriptions, pCloud has a lifetime option that allows you to purchase storage space once and use it forever.
All content in the Crypto Folder benefits from end-to-end encryption.
Drawbacks: Where Does pCloud Fall Short Compared to Dropbox?
Like MEGA, pCloud's focus on data privacy and security comes at a cost: It's not suitable as a collaboration platform.
No real-time collaboration
pCloud doesn't let you edit documents directly in the cloud or work on them with others in real time.Web app issues
In our review, pCloud's web app wasn't as stable as Dropbox's. The built-in video player frequently had loading problems.Lack of transparency
While Dropbox regularly publishes security audits, pCloud isn't as open with its audits or business structure.
Proton Drive: Document Editor With End-to-End Encryption
Looking for a privacy-focused cloud storage but don't want to give up collaborative, cloud-based document editing? Then, check out Proton Drive*. This Swiss service combines powerful security standards, including end-to-end encryption, with privacy-friendly collaboration features.
While it's not perfect yet - which is reflected in our review score - Proton Drive could be an interesting option for security-conscious users who value privacy and transparency.
Proton Drive is a good alternative to Dropbox if you:
want a cloud storage solution that makes fewer compromises on security and privacy.
want to edit your text documents directly in the cloud with E2E encryption.
can do without some conveniences and super-fast syncing.
What Makes Proton Drive Better Than Dropbox?
Proton Drive stands out from Dropbox mainly in security, transparency, and privacy:
End-to-end encryption for all files
While Dropbox only offers E2E encryption to business customers, Proton Drive protects all uploaded files by default across all of its plans.Document editor with E2E encryption
Despite its privacy focus, Proton Drive lets you edit text documents directly in the cloud - with end-to-end encryption, of course.Open-source for better transparency
Unlike Dropbox, Proton Drive's apps are open source. Anyone can check the source code for potential security issues.
Proton Drive is a security-focused cloud storage provider.
Drawbacks: Where Does Proton Drive Fall Short Compared to Dropbox?
Proton's uncompromising security comes at the cost of performance and functionality. Also, collaboration options are limited and can't compare to what Dropbox and similar services offer.
Slow syncing
In our review, sync speeds were much slower than Dropbox and other cloud storage services. This means your files might not be available on other devices as quickly as you'd like.Limited collaboration
Proton Drive's editor only works with text documents. You can't edit other file types like presentations or spreadsheets, let alone images and videos.Limited file preview and playback
The limitations go beyond editing: Most file types can't be previewed in Proton Drive's web app. Plus, you can't directly stream videos larger than 100 MB.
Alternatives
Do none of the above match your requirements for a Dropbox alternative? If so, another cloud storage service from our comparison might be a better fit. Check out our complete ranking, with links to detailed reviews for each platform:
Bottom Line
Dropbox is a solid cloud storage service, but it isn't perfect: It's relatively expensive and pretty stingy with free storage. End-to-end encryption is available, but only in the Business Plus plan. Finally, its sync and file-sharing features also lack some handy options that other providers include by default.
Choosing the best Dropbox alternative depends on which features matter most to you. Looking for a secure solution with end-to-end encryption for personal use? Then, check out MEGA, pCloud, Tresorit, or Proton Drive. If collaboration and office software integrations are your priorities, Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive are better options.
Is price your main concern? MEGA, Google Drive, and pCloud are much cheaper cloud storage options than Dropbox – and you'll also get more free storage.
Still not sure? Our cloud storage comparison will help you find the right solution for your needs.
