Dropbox has been a reliable cloud storage solution, but the time has come to explore free Dropbox alternatives because it lacks zero-knowledge encryption and offers only 2 GB of storage in its free version. Similarly, other cloud storage and file-sharing services have grown rapidly that would not let you down with their excellent storage and file-sharing features.
So, get rid of Dropbox’s hidden costs and explore the best free alternative to Dropbox. Here, we have listed the 13 best free Dropbox competitors that are worth considering.
What is Dropbox?
Dropbox is a well-known and one of the oldest cloud storage services that was established in 2007. With over 700 million registered users, Dropbox is helping users with file sharing, file syncing, and document collaboration. This cloud-based file management software offers 2 GB of storage in its free version, where you can store all your important files, documents, and images.
The platform ensures increased speeds for processing large files such as photos, database backups, and 3D models at a single location and can access them from devices synced up to the internet. However, Dropbox scores low on security and privacy and charges extra as your storage needs increase with the escalation of your business.
Pros:
· 2 GB of storage in the free version
· Easy-to-navigate interface
· Excellent file synchronization and collaboration features
· Great for working on non-Google files
· File Recovery and Version History
· Seamless integration with third-party apps
· Can be accessed from any device
Cons:
· Lacks end-to-end encryption
· Costly storage plans
· Limited free storage
· File size limits
· No compliance with regulations like HIPAA
Pricing:
· Plus Plan costs $9.99/month/user for 2 TB storage
· Essentials Plan costs $16.58/month/user for 3 TB storage
· Business Plan costs $15/3/month for 9 TB storage
· Business Plus Plan costs $24/3+/month for 14 TB storage
Why Dropbox Is So Expensive?
Many people complain that Dropbox is a bit pricier than other cloud storage providers like TeraBox, Google Drive, and OneDrive. There could be the following reasons why Dropbox is so expensive.
- Dropbox was launched in 2007, and they are one of the oldest cloud storage platforms. They have invested a lot of effort and money to make a mark in the industry through user-oriented cloud storage services. That’s why now they are taking advantage of their credibility and reputation and offering services at high costs.
- Another factor for their high prices is the level of security and privacy they provide. It has been a go-to option for businesses and professionals with high-security needs for their sensitive data. The platform uses cutting-edge encryption methods to prevent your files from data breaches. Such top-notch security comes at high costs because it requires a dedicated team of professionals and constant updates to stay ahead of potential threats.
- Further, it charges more because it ensures excellent collaboration and seamless file-sharing features. They always try hard to facilitate teams to work together on documents and other important projects.
- Moreover, they have worked hard to offer features like Dropbox Paper and Smart Sync, which are great for businesses looking for a reliable storage solution to manage their files.
In essence, you are not paying for storage space, actually, you are paying more for a set of tools designed to help you increase your productivity.
Why Switch from Dropbox to Similar Apps? Key Reasons
Dropbox is a popular cloud-based file storage and sharing service that lets users store, sync, and share files and folders across multiple devices. But its high costs and specific feature requirements urge you to switch to similar apps. Here is a brief overview of why you should switch from Dropbox to similar apps:
Cost-Effective File Solutions
Managing your data files should not put pressure on your pocket. Though Dropbox offers free 2 GB storage, costs go higher as your storage needs escalate, and the jump from the free plan to a paid service is quite high. Dropbox competitors offer more cost-effective pricing models, allowing users to switch from Dropbox.
File Size Upload Limits
Dropbox allows the upload of a file of only 2 GB in size in its free version. Through its paid plans, you can share files up to 50 GB in size, which can be restrictive for users looking to share large media files. Other storage options offer more freedom in file size upload limits.
Privacy and Security Concerns
The security of your data files is paramount, and for users looking for enhanced security, Dropbox is not the best choice. It lacks zero-knowledge encryption and other security measures like end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication, making your files vulnerable to data breaches. That’s why people should switch from Dropbox to other alternatives offering cloud storage services.
Free Options
Who does not love things for free? Everyone does!
If you are on a tight budget, then Dropbox is not for you with its costly paid storage plans. You need a reliable storage solution with affordable storage plans. Free websites like TeraBox are viable choices as the best Dropbox alternatives for business needs.
Lacks Specific Features That Comply With Regulations Such As HIPAA
Specific businesses, such as finance, healthcare, or legal, require specialized features to comply with regulations such as HIPAA and other security measures. Therefore, they look for a storage solution that offers such security compliance. In such conditions, Dropbox is not the perfect choice because it lacks such compliance. Similarly, other use cases, such as businesses managing an extensive repository of images and videos, might look for a reliable digital assets management service that is a simple storage service.
Therefore, a free Dropbox alternative must align with specific business needs.
13 Best Free Dropbox Alternatives You Need to Consider
Users looking for free alternatives to Dropbox to store, share, and sync their files securely must look for the following options:
TeraBox: The Best Free Cloud Storage Solution for Individuals and Businesses
TeraBox is the perfect choice for users looking for a reliable, free, secure, and cost-effective storage solution. The platform offers a massive 1 TB of free cloud storage that is more than enough for users to store, share, sync, and back up their important data files. TeraBox does not restrict itself to only offering vast free storage; it provides excellent security through end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and Personal Vault, allowing you to store and share your files securely.
The platform is taking the cloud storage industry with its automatic backup solutions, high download and upload speeds, excellent file synchronization and collaboration features, and, above all, its multi-device support. It works excellently on Android, iOS, MacOS, Windows, Linux, and Other Web-based applications. Moreover, it facilitates its non-tech users to share their files through the easy-to-navigate user interface, making it the best free Dropbox alternative.
Pros:
· 1 TB of free storage
· Up to 16TB for all users
· Excellent file-sharing and collaboration features
· Easy-to-use interface
· Quick upload and download speeds
· Top-notch security through end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication
· Personal Vault for extra security
· Multiple file format support
· Auto-backup solutions
· Built-in media player
· Cross-platform compatibility
· Seamless integration with third-party apps
· Apps for Android, Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Web interfaces
· No file size limits
· 30-day recycle bin for deleted files
· Uploading of large files up to 128 GB in its premium plan
Cons:
· You will encounter ads in its free version
Pricing:
· Pricing starts at $3.49/month for 2 TB storage
· Yearly Auto-renewal at $35.99/year
· 1 TB/year costs $19.99
· 3 TB of storage costs $59.99/year
· 5 TB of storage costs $99.99/year
Microsoft OneDrive
Microsoft OneDrive is an excellent free Dropbox Alternative that offers great features like easy collaboration, data backing up, and protection, with 1 GB of storage in its free plan. Its neat features allow you to scan your documents via your phone and store them directly and securely in your OneDrive account.
It is an easy-to-use cloud storage option that uses Microsoft Office, allowing you to use Office apps, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for Windows and Mac. Users can access their data in the free version and access it offline, as well as search their files quickly by just entering an exact keyword.
Its PC folder backup automatically syncs your files to the cloud that you access directly from the OneDrive account. OneDrive is a solid-security-focused solution that uses biometrics to control access to your files.
Pros:
· 5 GB of free storage
· Easy file access
· Easy file sharing and collaboration with family and friends
· Automatic backups
· Advanced syncing technology
· Seamless integration with Microsoft Apps
· Excellent Security with Personal Vault
Cons:
· Limited free storage
· Only best for Microsoft, Desktop, and Windows users
· The free version lacks ransomware detection, password-protections, and file restoration and recovery
· No plans for unlimited storage
Pricing:
· Personal Plant costs $6.99/month and $69.99 when billed annually for 1 TB storage
· 6 TB storage costs $99.99 when paid annually
· Business plan costs $5/month/user
Google Drive
Google Drive is a free cloud storage solution that offers 15 GB of free storage space to let you store and back up all your photos and videos. It is part of Google G Suite applications and is one of the best solutions for users who merely want to back up their personal and work files.
Google Drive syncs your files and settings across multiple devices and offers excellent collaboration features. You can also use Google Docs and Google Sheets for word processing and Spreadsheets to handle Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word files efficiently.
Pros:
· 15 GB of free storage
· File syncing from desktop to desktop
· Cross-platform compatibility
· Seamless integration with third-party apps
· Safe and secure content encryption
· Google AI and Search Engine to help you find files 50% faster
Cons:
· No unlimited storage plans
· Google Account is a must for proper use
Pricing:
· Basic Plan costs $1.99/month for 100 GB storage
· Standard Plan costs $2.99/month for 200 GB storage
· Premium Plan costs $9.99/month for 2 TB storage
Box
Box is another free alternative to Dropbox, offering 10 GB of free cloud storage that mainly targets business owners. The platform ensures top-notch security via AES 256-bit encryption and TLS/SSL encryption to keep your files safe during uploading and sharing. It has native apps like Box Notes and Box Canvas, allowing users to collaborate on projects. Box can also be integrated with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace for easy working.
Pros:
· 10 GB of free storage
· Seamless third-party app integration
· Multiple business tools
· Zero-Trust Security
· No file sharing limit
Cons:
· Expensive paid plans
· Lacks advanced features
· No lifetime storage plans
Pricing:
· Starter Plan costs $5/user/month
· Business Plan costs $15/user/month
MEGA
MEGA is one of the best free cloud storage Dropbox alternatives. The platform offers 20 GB of storage for free, which allows users to store, sync, back up, and share files seamlessly. The platform ensures a high level of security and prevents your files from data breaches. Its collaboration features allow you to store and share files with friends and colleagues with varying permissions. In addition, users can access their MEGA account via web interfaces and macOS, Windows, and Linux apps.
Pros:
· 20 GB generous free storage
· Top-notch security via end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication
· Excellent file versioning capabilities
· Yearly transparency reports
· Cheap storage plans
Cons:
· No advanced features
· Not an open-source storage solution
· No third-party integration
· Limited collaboration features
Pricing:
· Pro Plan costs $10/user/month for 2 TB storage
Icedrive
Icedrive is a relatively new free cloud storage Dropbox alternative that was launched in 2019. The platform offers 10 GB of free cloud storage to let you store and share your files. Its client-side encryption, zero-knowledge privacy, intuitive user interface, and competitive pricing plans make it one of the top free Dropbox competitors.
Similarly, its lifetime storage plan can be a great choice for small businesses.
Pros:
- 10 GB of free storage space
- Client-side encryption and zero-knowledge privacy
- Password-protection
- Apps for Android, Windows, and Web interfaces
Cons:
- Limited collaboration tools
- No third-party app integration
- Free plan lacks client-side encryption
Pricing:
- Pro Plan costs $5.99/month for 1 TB storage
- Lifetime Plan costs $299 for 512 GB storage
Sync
Sync is another one of the free sites similar to Dropbox, offering 5 GB of free cloud storage and 30-day file versioning. The platform lets you store and share links to the files through email and enjoy real-time backup and sync. Users can set granular permission for files in the free version.
Sync offers apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Users can also access Sync directly from the Web interface.
Pros:
- 5 GB of free storage
- Zero-knowledge encryption
- Easy file versioning
- Competitive prices for paid plans
- Offline access to your files
Cons:
- Limited free storage
- Less intuitive user-interface
- Less customization than its competitors
Pricing:
- 2 TB of storage at $8/month (One-Year plan)
- Solo Plan costs $20/user/month when billed annually
iCloud Drive
Apple’s iCloud Drive is mainly for Apple users and is one of the best free Dropbox alternatives. The platform offers 5 GB of free upload and a 5 GB file transfer limit, making it a top-notch choice for Apple users.
iCloud offers link-based collaboration, allowing users to work on different projects together. It can backup a variety of files such as PDFs, photos, videos, and other file types.
Pros:
- 5 GB free Apple Storage
- File synchronization
- Safe and secure cloud storage option for Apple users
- Improved file-sharing options
Cons:
- Lacks Android and Windows support
- No advanced features
- Lacks options for power users
Pricing:
- 50 GB of storage for $0.99/month
- 2 TB of storage for $9.99/month
MediaFire
MediaFire is a great free storage solution that offers 10 GB of free storage and allows users to simplify workflows and share photos, videos, audio, and Docs. It is one of the fastest and most secure cloud storage options for file collaboration. MediaFire works well on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It is more than a file-sharing option as it offers many handy tools to facilitate its users.
Pros:
- 10 GB free storage
- No limits on file-size uploads
- Excellent file transfer speeds
- Easy-to-use interface
- One of the secure platforms
Cons:
- Lacks zero-knowledge encryption
- No robust customer support
- Lacks third-party app integrations
- Limited file downloads in the free version
Pricing:
- Pro Plan costs $4/user/month
pCloud
pCloud is another excellent free Dropbox alternative that offers 10 GB of free cloud storage. The platform provides Swiss data security with client-side encryption and zero-knowledge privacy. It keeps your files safe through TLS/SSL encryption, and files are stored on more than three servers. In addition, you will enjoy excellent file sharing and collaboration on large files within your organization.
Pros:
- Top-notch security options
- No file size limits
- AES 256-bit encryption
- 10 GB free storage
- Password-protection of files
- Various solutions for file sharing
Cons:
- Extra charges on Crypto Folder
- Finding files can be difficult
- Expensive storage plans
Pricing:
- Premium Plan costs $4.99/month, $49.99/year, and $199 for a lifetime subscription for 500 GB storage.
- Premium Plus Plan costs $9.99/month, $199.99/year, and $1890 for a lifetime for 2 TB storage.
Internxt
Internxt is a fairly new free cloud storage Dropbox alternative that was launched in 2020. The platform offers 1 GB of free file storage and sharing space to its users. Its easy-to-navigate UI offers “Drive” and “Backup” tabs. The first is one for file uploading and sharing, while the second one, as the name suggests, is for backing up large files. However, Internxt lacks file versioning, making the backup process more complex. The platform also lacks block-level syncing, which means the service is slower than its competitors.
Pros:
- 1 GB free storage
- Advanced security features
- Competitive prices for paid storage plans
- Compliance for GDPR
- 100% open-source storage platform
Cons:
- No block-level syncing
- Relatively new service
- No seamless integration with third-party apps
- No file versioning
Pricing:
- The Monthly paid plan costs $0.95 for 200 GB of storage
- For 500 GB, its costs $2.49/month
- For 1 TB, it costs $4.99/month
IDrive
IDrive is one of the best free online backup services that offers 10 GB of free storage space to let you store, sync, share, and back up your files easily. The platform provides apps for Windows and Mac and enables you to have control over how you store and share files.
Via IDrive, you can quickly back up your Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 accounts. It utilizes AES 256-bit encryption to ensure your files are safe and secure on its servers.
Pros:
- 10 GB free storage
- Automatic backup options
- Affordable paid plans
- File security via zero-knowledge encryption
- Integration with Google Drive and Microsoft 365
Cons:
- Lacks collaboration features
- Less intuitive user interface
- No multi-device support
- Lacks third-party integrations
Pricing:
- 5 TB storage for $5.81/month (One-year plan)
Tresorit
Last but not least on our list of free Dropbox alternatives is Tresorit. The platform is an excellent storage service that offers 3 GB of free storage and mainly focuses on businesses. It ensures solid security for your files through end-to-end encryption. Its easy-to-use interface and up-to-date resources help users get started on Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Advanced file storage and sharing features
- Multiple servers to store your files
- Top-notch security through zero-knowledge encryption
Cons:
- Limited free storage
- Advanced features come at high costs
- Expensive storage plans
Pricing:
- 1 TB storage costs $11.99/month (One-year plan)
- The Business plan costs $19/month for 3 users when billed annually
- The Professional Plan costs $27.49/month when paid annually
Summary
In conclusion, though Dropbox is an excellent cloud storage solution for file storage and sharing, it offers limited free storage, lacks zero-knowledge encryption, and has expensive paid storage plans. Here, we have listed 13 of the best free Dropbox alternatives that you must consider. They offer more free cloud storage, keep your files secure with excellent security measures, and provide affordable storage plans if you have higher storage needs.
Among the listed solutions, TeraBox is leading the chart with its top-notch security, vast free storage plan, automatic backups, fast upload and download speeds, and other excellent features.
FAQs
Which one is better, TeraBox or Dropbox?
TeraBox is a better option than Dropbox because it offers 1024 GB of free storage, which is far more than the 2 GB of Dropbox. In addition, TeraBox protects your files through end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and a personal vault, which Dropbox lacks. TeraBox also outperforms Dropbox with its automatic backup options, fast upload and download speeds, and affordable paid storage plans.
What is the best Dropbox alternative for Mac users?
iCloud is a built-in cloud backup solution for Mac users, but it lacks advanced features for power users and offers no support for Android and Windows users. TeraBox can be the best Dropbox alternative for Mac users due to its robust support for Mac users through specialized apps. It outperforms both iCloud and Dropbox with vast free storage, top-notch security, and other excellent features that both lack.
Who is Dropbox’s biggest competitor?
TeraBox is the biggest free competitor to Dropbox, which outperforms it with vast free storage of 1 TB, excellent security features, an auto-backup option, fast download and upload speeds, and an easy-to-navigate user interface. Other free and paid Dropbox competitors include Google Drive, OneDrive, Box, and many others.
Should I switch from Dropbox to iCloud?
Should you switch from Dropbox to iCloud? It all depends on your storage needs and the way you use your devices.
If you are looking for excellent file syncing, unlimited file size uploads, and file restoration, Dropbox is the best option.
However, if you are looking for a service that integrates with Apple products and storage optimization, you need to switch from Dropbox to iCloud, which has more free storage.
As said, it all depends on your specific needs.
