Encrypting files has become the new norm for the digital services we use online, from VPN, email, and cloud storage.

Without it, our data is openly available for anyone to read, compromising our confidentiality, privacy, and security and potentially costing businesses millions in compliance fines.

This comprehensive guide therefore offers you a comprehensive guide on how to encrypt files to ensure your data remains protected by covering the following topics:

• How to encrypt a file on different devices
• Encrypting files before uploading to the cloud
• Cloud storage with zero-knowledge encryption
• Avoid common encryption mistakes

By the end, you will be able to encrypt files with your chosen apps, learn more about cloud storage such as Dropbox and Google Drive encrypted folders, and when to choose a zero-knowledge or cloud storage service to protect your data from being leaked online.

Table of contents

• Why encrypting your files matters
• Different methods of encrypting files
• How to encrypt files on different devices
• How to encrypt a file on mobile devices
• How to encrypt different file types
• Best services for encrypting files
• How to avoid common mistakes when encrypting files
• How to ensure your encrypted files stay protected
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

Why encrypting your files matters

1. Protect private and confidential data: encrypting files in cloud storage, emails, or file sharing services transforms the plain text of your file to an unreadable format (ciphertext) so neither hackers nor any other unauthorised parties can access your files.
2. Preservation of privacy: Encrypting files on your devices or external drives helps keep your personal information private by making it unreadable to anyone without the correct encryption key or password. If your device is lost, stolen, or accessed without your permission, encrypted files remain protected even if someone can physically access the storage.
3. Compliance: Many industries require encryption to comply with data protection regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, or other regional requirements to demonstrate that companies take the necessary measures to protect against data breaches.
4. Secure file sharing: When sending files over networks, encryption protects your information during transmission.

Different methods of encrypting files

There are multiple ways to encrypt files depending on where they're stored, how they're being shared, and the level of protection required.

File encryption encrypts individual files or folders, making them accessible only with the correct encryption key or password. This is ideal for protecting specific documents before storing or sharing them.

Full-disk encryption encrypts an entire storage device, such as a computer's hard drive, SSD, USB flash drive, or external hard drive. It protects all data on the device and helps prevent unauthorized access if the device is lost or stolen.

For cloud storage encryption, providers like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox encrypt files only after they reach their servers.

These secure cloud storage, but as the providers stores files on servers they own and manage the encryption keys, employees can access or give access to data to law agencies if required.

Private cloud storage for your files uses client-side or zero-knowledge encryption to encrypt files before they leave your device, ensuring that only you can access their contents because files are encrypted and keys are managed on your device, so nobody but you can access your data.

How to encrypt files on different devices

How to encrypt a file on Windows

1. Right-click on the file or folder you want to encrypt.
2. Select “Properties” from the context menu.
3. Click the “Advanced” button in the General tab.
4. Check the box next to “Encrypt contents to secure data.”
5. Click “OK” and then “Apply.”
6. Choose whether to encrypt just the file or its parent folder as well.
7. Click “OK” to complete the process.

Once complete, your file shows a padlock to confirm your file is encrypted.

How to encrypt a file on MacOS

To encrypt data on your Mac device, MacOS offers built-in encryption options with FileVault and Disk Utility.

With FileVault enabled, it encrypts the entire startup disk, protecting all files, applications, and system data on your Mac. Anyone without your account password or recovery key cannot access the contents of the drive if the device is lost or stolen.

To enable FileVault on your Mac:

1. Click the Apple menu and open System Settings.
2. Select Privacy & Security, then scroll down and click FileVault.
3. Click Turn On FileVault.
4. Enter your Mac administrator password if prompted.
5. Choose how you want to unlock your disk if you forget your password. You can use your Apple Account or create a recovery key to store in a safe place.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm your choice.
7. Restart your Mac if prompted. macOS will begin encrypting your startup disk in the background, which may take a few hours.

Disk Utility allows you to create encrypted folders that act as secure virtual folders for storing sensitive files. You can also encrypt external storage devices such as USB flash drives and external hard drives.

Access to these files requires the correct password, so Disk Utility is a useful option for protecting specific files or storage devices without encrypting your entire Mac.

To do so, follow these steps:

1. Open Disk Utility from Applications > Utilities.
2. Go to File > New Image > Blank Image.
3. Enter a name for the disk image, choose where you want to save it, and specify its size.
4. Select an encryption level (128-bit AES or 256-bit AES).
5. Create and verify a strong password for the encrypted disk image.
6. Choose a disk image format and click "Save."
7. Double-click the encrypted disk image and enter your password to mount it.
8. Drag the files you want to encrypt into the mounted disk image.
9. Eject the disk image when you're finished. Your files will remain encrypted until you mount the disk image and enter the correct password again.

How to encrypt a file on mobile devices

Android

If you have screen lock enabled on your Android devices, then your data will be encrypted, and files stored on your device are unreadable without your PIN, password, or biometric authentication.

To check that your Android device is protected:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Security & privacy or Security (the name may vary depending on your device).
3. Set up a PIN, password, or pattern if you haven't already.
4. Enable fingerprint or face unlock if your device supports biometric authentication.
5. Verify that your device encryption is enabled. On most recent Android devices, this is turned on automatically and cannot be disabled.

iOS

iPhone and iPads automatically encrypt all data stored on the device using hardware-based encryption.

Once you set a passcode, encryption is enabled by default, protecting your files, photos, messages, and other personal data if your device is lost or stolen.

To ensure your iPhone or iPad is encrypted:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Face ID & Passcode or Touch ID & Passcode.
3. Enter your current passcode or create one if you don't already have one.
4. Scroll to the bottom of the screen and confirm that "Data protection is enabled" appears.

While both iOS and Android encrypt the data stored on your device, this protection only encrypts your local storage.

If you upload files to cloud storage or share them with others, you'll need to use encrypted cloud storage or file encryption tools if you want the files to remain protected outside your device.

How to encrypt different file types

How to encrypt a PDF file

Encrypting a PDF file is useful to protect documents containing financial records, legal contracts, medical information, business reports, personal data, or confidential work files.

To do so, follow these steps:

• Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat Pro.
• Select All tools > Protect a PDF > Encrypt with Password.
• Choose whether you want to require a password to open the document or only to restrict editing and printing.
• Enter a strong password and confirm it.
• Click Apply to encrypt the PDF.
• Save the encrypted PDF to complete the process.

How to encrypt Microsoft Office documents

As Google Docs doesn’t allow you to password-protect documents, one workaround is using  Microsoft Office documents to protect sensitive Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files from unauthorized access.

If you want to protect financial information, business reports, contracts, personal data, or confidential work for an Office document, follow these steps:

1. Open the Word, Excel, or PowerPoint document you want to encrypt.
2. Click File > Info.
3. Select Protect Document (or Protect Workbook/Protect Presentation).
4. Click Encrypt with Password.
5. Enter a strong password and confirm it.
6. Save the document to apply the encryption.

How to encrypt a ZIP file

ZIP compresses and combines one or more files and folders into a single file. File compression reduces the overall file size, helping to free up space in cloud storage, and making it easier to store, upload, share, or download multiple files at once.

ZIP files can also be encrypted with a password using the following steps:

• Install a file archiving tool that supports encryption, such as 7-Zip or WinRAR.
• Select the file or folder you want to compress.
• Right-click the selection and choose Add to archive.
• Choose ZIP as the archive format.
• Enter a strong password in the encryption section.
• Select AES-256 encryption if the option is available.
• Click OK or Create to generate the encrypted ZIP file.

Best services for encrypting files

Internxt

With Internxt, you get encrypted storage that doesn’t require any extra steps when encrypting files. So if you’re wondering how to encrypt a file to protect your files in the cloud, Internxt does this all for you.

Internxt uses AES-256 and Kyber-512 post-quantum encryption for all free and paid plans, and you hold the encryption keys so you, and only you, can see your files.

Thanks to this zero-knowledge policy, your files are encrypted automatically on your device, during transit, and on Internxt’s servers, but because you hold the encryption keys, neither Internxt nor anybody else can view the contents.

The same applies when you share files online with Internxt: you don’t have to create an encrypted file beforehand; Internxt Drive creates an encrypted link with password protection, and you can also send encrypted files for free with Internxt Send.

On top of Internxt’s secure cloud storage, Internxt also offers more encrypted services to ensure your data remains private online with the following services:

• Internxt Meet: secure video calling
• Internxt Mail: encrypted and private email
• Internxt VPN: a private and encrypted VPN

For encrypting files and more, get started with Internxt for free, or choose from any paid lifetime or monthly plan below.

Cryptomator

With Cryptomator or a Cryptomator alternative, you can encrypt files to secure data to encrypt files on your device before uploading them to cloud storage providers like Google Drive or OneDrive to guarantee they cannot view the contents of your encrypted folders.

How to encrypt a file with Cryptomator:

1. Install Cryptomator and open the application.
2. Create a new vault and choose where if you want to save it in a cloud storage folder or on your computer.
3. Create a strong password for the vault. This password is required to access your encrypted files.
4. Copy or move the file you want to protect into the unlocked vault.
5. Cryptomator automatically encrypts the file as it is saved inside the vault.
6. When you have finished, lock the vault from the Cryptomator application.

How to avoid common mistakes when encrypting files

Data encryption is almost impossible to break; if encrypted data is hacked, it is likely due to these common errors:

1. Weak passwords: Attackers use advanced software to try to crack passwords; if you repeat or use weak passwords, it makes it easier for them to access your encrypted file or cloud storage accounts.
2. Losing a backup key: If you forget your password, you cannot regain access to your files because only you know your encryption credentials, causing the data to be permanently lost.
3. Not backing up encrypted data. Encryption does not protect against accidental deletion, hardware failure, or corruption. Keep backups of your encrypted vault in a separate location.

To prevent these mistakes, ensure you use a strong password or passphrase to protect your files and accounts, store your backup key in safe places you can always access whenever needed, and follow the 3-2-1 backup rule to protect important files against data loss.

How to ensure your encrypted files stay protected

1. Use strong, unique passwords or passphrases to protect encrypted files and accounts.
2. Enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible.
3. Keep all software up to date to protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities.
4. Back up encrypted files regularly and store backups in a separate, secure location.
5. Store passwords and recovery keys securely, such as in a trusted password manager.
6. Lock or unmount encrypted vaults when they are not in use.
7. Choose zero-knowledge cloud storage providers.
8. Verify that files have been encrypted successfully before deleting the original copies.
9. Securely erase unencrypted copies of sensitive files once they are no longer needed.
10. Use trusted, well-maintained encryption software that has been independently audited.
11. Follow the principle of least privilege by only giving access to encrypted files to people who need it.
12. Periodically test that encrypted files and backups can still be accessed and recovered.

Related products

Secure Cloud Object Storage (S3 Compatible) — Internxt S3

Internxt S3 offers secure, private, and affordable cloud object storage. Scale your storage needs with our S3-compatible cloud based object storage solution.

Internxt Antivirus — Protect your devices from malware

Internxt Antivirus scans and removes viruses from your files. Protect your devices from malware and ensure complete security in the cloud.

Internxt Cleaner — Optimize and Clean your Computer

Find and clear junk files to boost device speed, responsiveness, and performance.

Frequently asked questions

Can encrypted files be hacked?

Encrypted files cannot be easily hacked if they use modern encryption standards such as AES-256 and are protected by a strong password or encryption key.

If encrypted files are hacked, it is likely due to misconfigured security settings, weak passwords, stolen encryption keys, or software vulnerabilities rather than breaking the encryption itself.

Can a cloud provider see my encrypted files?

If you upload files to cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive without encrypting them before they’re uploaded to the cloud, the provider can technically access your data because they do not use end-to-end encryption for standard file storage.

While these services encrypt data in transit and at rest to protect it from external attackers, they retain the encryption keys needed to decrypt your files.

If you encrypt your files before uploading them or use a cloud storage service with end-to-end encryption, like Internxt, only you hold the decryption key. This not even the cloud provider can view your file contents, even though they store the encrypted data on their servers.

What happens if I forget my encryption password or backup key?

If you forget your encryption password or lose the encryption key, you will permanently lose access to your encrypted files. Most encryption methods cannot recover encrypted data without the correct credentials, so it is important to store recovery keys securely.

Can I encrypt files before uploading to Google Drive?

Yes. Encrypting files before uploading them to Google Drive adds an extra layer of security. Only someone with the correct encryption password or key can access the file, even if your cloud account is compromised.

Is AES-256 secure?

Yes. AES-256 is one of the most secure encryption standards available today. It is widely used by governments, financial institutions, and cybersecurity professionals to protect sensitive data and is considered resistant to current brute-force attacks when paired with a strong password.

Can encrypted files be recovered?

Yes, but only if you have the correct password, encryption key, or a valid recovery key. Without these credentials, recovering properly encrypted files is generally not possible.

Which file types can be encrypted?

Almost any file type can be encrypted, including documents, PDFs, spreadsheets, images, videos, audio files, databases, archives, and backups. Encryption works on the file's contents rather than its format, making it compatible with virtually all file types.

Learn how Google Drive encryption works, whether you can password protect Google Docs, and how to encrypt Google Drive files and folders for extra security.

If you’re interested in encrypting or getting more privacy for your cloud storage with a Google Drive encrypted folder, then there are methods to encrypt files before uploading them to Google, or to password-protect a Google Doc.

Google Drive does come with secure encryption, but not end-to-end encryption, so they manage the encryption keys on its serves, which could potentially be accessed by law enforcement or Google employees.

Next, if you’re wondering how you can password protect a Google Doc, unfortunately Google only offers file-restricted features, and not native password protection in the Google suite.

Nevertheless, this article will cover methods for creating a Google Drive encrypted folder, password protection, and cloud storage with end-to-end encryption and password protection features if you are looking for a more private Google Drive alternative.

Table of contents

• Does Google Drive have built-in encryption?
• Can you password-protect a Google Doc?
• How to password protect Google Docs and Google Drive files
• How to create an encrypted folder in Google Drive
• Google Drive encrypted folder vs password protection: What's the difference?
• Best practices for securing sensitive Google Drive files
• An alternative to creating a Google Drive encrypted folder

Does Google Drive have built-in encryption?

Yes, but files are not encrypted on your devices; instead, Google Drive protects files using encryption both while data is being transferred (in transit) and while it is stored (at rest) on Google’s servers.

Encryption keys are managed on Google’s servers, so confidential or private documents you store with the service don’t benefit from the same privacy as end-to-end encryption, where files are encrypted and keys are managed on your device, so nobody but you can access them.

If you want a Google Drive encrypted folder for your account, you would have to use third-party tools or choose cloud storage with zero-knowledge encryption, all of which we cover later in this article.

Can you password-protect a Google Doc?

No, you cannot password-protect a native Google Docs or Sheets file, as they do not have a built-in password feature; instead, you have to choose alternatives that offer comparable security.

Google doesn't offer password protection for documents or spreadsheets in Google Drive because it relies on Google account authentication and access permissions instead of file-level passwords.

This approach supports collaboration, centralized access management, auditing, and recovery, while avoiding the usability and security issues that come with managing separate passwords for individual files.

For files that require password protection, Google expects users to encrypt them before uploading or use third-party tools rather than providing built-in password protection.

How to password protect Google Docs and Google Drive files

If you want to password-protect a Google Doc or encrypt a Google Drive file, your options are:

1. Restrict access, limit editors and viewers, and remove download, print, and copy permissions.
2. Download the document as a PDF or Word file and add password protection.
3. Encrypt the file before uploading it to Google Drive using third-party encryption apps like Cryptomator.

Alternatively, you can use cloud storage with password-protected file sharing and end-to-end encryption, like Internxt, file sharing services, or password-protected archive tools like 7-Zip.

How to create an encrypted folder in Google Drive

Create an encrypted archive (ZIP/7z)

An encrypted archive combines one or more files into a single compressed file that is protected with a password. Anyone who wants to access the files or open the archive must enter the correct password.

This is one of the simplest and most widely supported ways to protect files before uploading them to Google Drive.

Use third-party encryption software

Third-party encryption software creates secure encrypted storage that encrypts your files on your device before uploading them to the cloud.

Tools like Cryptomator integrate with cloud storage that doesn’t use end-to-end encryption, like Google, Dropbox, or OneDrive, and create an encrypted vault in your account to ensure not even the cloud provider can access your files.

End-to-end encrypted cloud storage

An end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) cloud storage service automatically encrypts your files on your device before they are uploaded to the cloud.

Only you and anyone you explicitly authorize can decrypt and access your data. Unlike Google Drive, the cloud provider cannot read your files because it never has access to your encryption keys.

Some providers, like pCloud or Icedrive, offer zero-knowledge encryption as a paid add-on. Internxt Drive, however, includes end-to-end encryption with all plans, with the added benefit of being the first cloud storage with post-quantum cryptography.

Internxt encrypted cloud storage ensures only you and those you share your files with can access them, as you manage the encryption keys; it's impossible for Internxt, or anyone else, to access your folders, making it a more private and secure alternative to Google Drive encryption.

Internxt Drive also includes password protection for files, so if you want more private encryption, secure file sharing, and a range of products such as Mail, Meet, and advanced cloud management like NAS and Rclone support, you can get 85% off all Internxt plans and check out the full Internxt product suite below.

Google Drive encrypted folder vs password protection: What's the difference?

Encryption and password protection are two security measures with different purposes. Encryption protects your data from unauthorized access during storage and transfer, while password protection restricts who can open a specific file.

Google Drive encryption protects your files while they're stored on Google's servers and when they're being transferred over the internet. Google manages these encryption keys, so it can decrypt your files when necessary to provide its services.

Password protection adds an extra password that must be entered before a file can be opened, regardless of where it's stored. Google Drive doesn't offer this feature for individual files, and so any of the alternative methods featured in this article is the only way to password protect Google Doc files.

Best practices for securing sensitive Google Drive files

If you’re less concerned about how to password protect Google Docs and want to improve your Google Drive security, then follow these steps:

• Enable two-factor authentication: Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for an additional security method to prevent access to your account even if someone knows your password.
• Use strong passwords: Create a unique password or passphrase that is long, random, and not used for any other account.
• Review sharing permissions: Periodically check who has access to your files and folders, and remove anyone who no longer needs access.
• Avoid public links: Only share files with specific people instead of creating links that anyone can access to prevent confidential files from being accessed by unauthorized people.
• Encrypt confidential files: Encrypt sensitive files before uploading them to Google Drive, or store them in an alternative to Google that encrypts files on your device, like Internxt Drive.

An alternative to creating a Google Drive encrypted folder

A Google Drive encrypted folder is possible, but only if you choose alternative services, and isn’t the default if you want to encrypt Google Drive files.

For full end-to-end encryption, Internxt Drive offers secure cloud storage, backups, and password protection for your files, offering you a private space in the cloud where only you can access your files.

All plans come with post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption included, so you get maximum privacy regardless of whether you’re using free cloud storage or a paid plan.

Below you can see an overview comparing Google Drive encryption compared to Internxt Drive.

Aside from offering a Google Drive alternative, Internxt also includes alternatives to Google’s products to help you move towards full online privacy by degoogling your life with these products:

• Internxt Meet: encrypted and private video calling
• Internxt Mail: secure and encrypted emails
• Internxt Photos: private cloud storage for photos

Additional products include Internxt VPN, Antivirus, and Cleaner, offering a comprehensive privacy suite with the best encryption,  privacy, and pricing guaranteed.

If you already have a Google account, not to worry; you can migrate your Google storage to Internxt Drive easily by following our step-by-step guide in the article below.

Get started for free, or claim 85% off all monthly or lifetime plans below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you password protect a Google Doc?

No. Google Docs does not support password protection for individual documents. Instead, Google controls access through account sign-in and sharing permissions. If you need password protection, you must encrypt the document before uploading it, use a third-party encryption tool, or use cloud storage with password protection features, like Internxt.

How do I encrypt a Google Drive file?

Google Drive automatically encrypts files when they are uploaded and stored, so you don't need to encrypt them manually for basic protection. If you want only you or authorized recipients to be able to read a file, encrypt it yourself before uploading it using a password-protected archive, encryption software, or end-to-end encrypted cloud storage alternatives to Google.

Is Google Drive already encrypted?

Yes. Google Drive encrypts all files in transit and at rest using AES-256 encryption to protect them while they are transferred and stored on Google's servers. However, this is not the same as end-to-end encryption, as Google manages the encryption keys for most personal Google Drive accounts.

What is more secure than Google Drive encryption?

Google Drive is secure and protects your files with encryption while they are transferred and stored on Google's servers.

However, if privacy is your top priority, end-to-end encryption offers stronger protection because only you and the people you authorize can decrypt your files. Unlike Google Drive's standard encryption, the cloud provider cannot access your data or the encryption keys.

Sending encrypted files is the only way to ensure your files are protected against data breaches and unauthorized access. Without encryption, your personal documents are available for everyone to see.

Encryption is an essential part of our work and personal lives; from messaging, cloud storage, and file sharing, it helps keep our files protected and our data hidden from hackers.

This is why Internxt Drive and Internxt Send offer the best way to send encrypted files, protected with zero-knowledge encryption so only you and the people you share your files with can access them.

Find out more about the importance of encryption, how to send encrypted files, and how to maintain your privacy online in a personal and business environment.

Table of contents

• The challenges of sending files securely
• What does sending encrypted files mean?
• Why encryption is important
• Features to look for when sending encrypted files
• Other ways to send encrypted files
• Common mistakes to avoid when sending encrypted files
• Frequently asked questions

The challenges of sending files securely

Email limitations

Email is one of the most common ways to share files, but it is not designed for secure file transfers, nor is it meant to send large files, as the average upload limit with email providers sits between 20 and 25 MB.

This limitation makes it unsuitable to send high-resolution images, videos, or large documents, so you need an alternative when sending large files online.

Providers like Gmail or Outlook also don’t provide end-to-end encryption, so confidential files are at risk of being viewed by the provider or may be exposed during delivery if an account is compromised.

If you need to send small documents with end-to-end encryption, then Internxt Mail is a private and encrypted email service to send messages and share small documents via email securely and privately.

Sending sensitive documents

Personal information, financial records, business documents, and confidential files need protection to prevent unauthorised access, data breaches, or other cyberattacks.

Data encryption helps protect files by converting them into unreadable data that can only be accessed by approved recipients with the correct permissions or decryption key. Services with end-to-end encryption, which we cover below, are therefore the best way to send encrypted files.

Large file limits

To avoid the limits of email, you can share files with encrypted cloud storage or file-sharing services, but be aware of limitations when using these services, such as encryption, file size limits, or transfer allowances.

What does sending encrypted files mean?

Sending encrypted files means protecting your data by converting it into unreadable code before, during, or after it is transferred to protect the files from being intercepted by hackers during the transfer process.

The majority of the time, the encryption is automatic, so when you send an encrypted file, only the authorised recipients with the correct encryption key or credentials can access it.

Encryption before upload

Zero-knowledge cloud storage and file sharing services like Internxt and Internxt Send encrypt a file on your device before it leaves your computer or mobile device. As a result, neither the service nor anyone else can view its contents with this encryption model.

Encryption during transfer (TLS)

Encryption during transfer uses Transport Layer Security (TLS) to create a secure connection between your device and the receiving server. This protects files from being intercepted while they are uploaded or downloaded across the internet, but it does not encrypt the files once they reach the server.

Encryption at rest

Encryption at rest protects files after they have been uploaded and stored on a server or cloud storage platform. If someone gains unauthorised access to the storage system or physical drives, the encrypted files remain unreadable without the appropriate encryption keys.

Services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and file-sharing platforms like WeTransfer combine encryption during transfer and encryption at rest, but not end-to-end encryption.

So the best way to send encrypted files in total privacy is to elect zero-knowledge encrypted services, or other alternatives featured in this article.

Password protection vs encryption

Password protection controls who can open or access a file, while encryption protects the file's contents by converting them into unreadable data. A password-protected file may still use encryption, but password protection alone is not the same as strong encryption and should be used as an additional security layer for an encrypted file.

Why encryption is important

Without encryption, files can potentially be accessed by attackers, exposed through data breaches, or viewed by people who were not intended to receive them.

For personal use, encryption ensures that whatever you send, it remains secure and inaccessible to external parties.

For businesses, encryption also helps meet data protection and compliance requirements by reducing the risk of data leaks and unauthorised access, especially when sharing confidential files such as financial records, business documents, personal information, legal documents, and private communications.

If these ever became leaked or accessed without permission, businesses could face compliance fines and loss of revenue due to personal client or business information leaking online.

Features to look for when sending encrypted files

Encryption

Choose services with zero-knowledge encryption for maximum privacy and ensure only you and the people you choose to share files with can see its contents. Zero-knowledge encryption is especially important when sharing highly sensitive information, such as personal data, financial records, or confidential business documents.

Password protection

Password protection adds an extra security layer by requiring recipients to enter a password before accessing a file or download link. It’s recommended to password-protect all files when sharing files online to prevent unauthorised users from opening files if a link is accidentally shared or accessed by the wrong person.

Like with your accounts, password-protected file sharing should be combined with a strong password to prevent hackers from compromising your password; for this, you can use Internxt’s free strong password generator.

Expiring links

Expiring links automatically disable file access after a set period. This prevents files from remaining available indefinitely and reduces the chance of unauthorised access in the future. Expiring links are useful for one-time file transfers, client documents, and temporary sharing.

With cloud sharing, you can manage and revoke access to shared links from your account. File sharing services may offer link expiration after a set period, or allow you to set the date for the link expiration.

Download tracking

Download tracking lets you view and monitor file access, such as when a file was downloaded and sometimes who accessed it to identify unusual access attempts. This is useful for businesses that need visibility over shared documents.

Access controls and audit logs

Access controls allow senders to manage who can view, download, or edit files. Audit logs record actions such as file access, downloads, and changes, creating a record of activity. These features are important for organisations that handle sensitive information and need accountability over file usage.

Large file support

Large file support means you can easily send files without worrying about email attachment limits. For large files, it’s best to look for services that offer file sharing starting from 5 GB so you can share large video files, backups, design files, datasets, and other high-volume content.

Services that support larger file sizes make it easier to transfer files without compressing them or splitting them into multiple parts.

Other ways to send encrypted files

Below are other alternatives for sending encrypted files online.

How to send large files encrypted with Internxt

Internxt Drive

Keep your confidential documents, large videos, and business or personal data secure with Internxt’s post-quantum and zero-knowledge encrypted file sharing features.

Internxt Drive includes advanced features to help secure and improve your workflow, with file sharing features including:

• Send files via link or email
• Password-protection
• Collaboration and editing
• Monitor and revoke access
• End-to-end encryption
• GDPR, ISO 27001, SOC 2, and HIPAA compliant

Internxt secure cloud storage is the best way to send encrypted files combined with secure cloud storage for photographers, businesses, freelancers, and anyone who wants to send files encrypted with guaranteed privacy.

As well as sending encrypted files, Internxt offers additional features to protect your privacy online, such as a VPN to secure your connection, Antivirus to keep your device free from viruses, and a private, encrypted email if you need to send small attachments in privacy.

The full features of all Internxt plans can be viewed below, and follow this link to get 85% off all annual and lifetime plans.

Internxt Send

For free, private file sharing, you can send files securely with end-to-end encryption for files and folders up to 5GB with Internxt Send via email or a secure link. Send supports all file formats, allowing you to send personal projects privately, from videos to PDFs.

You can share files in just a few simple steps, and the encryption automatically starts on your device, keeping your files secure before they are sent to their destination. For added security, links will automatically expire after 15 days to prevent unauthorized access in the future.

Common mistakes to avoid when sending encrypted files

Sending passwords in the same email

If you password protect your files, let people know what the password is in a separate email or message. If someone gains access to that email, whether through a hacked account, a compromised mail server, or an accidentally forwarded message, they have both the encrypted file and the password needed to open it.

Leaving links active

Leaving file-sharing links active for longer than necessary increases the chance that unauthorized people will access your files. A link can be forwarded, leaked in an email, or discovered if someone gains access to a recipient's account.

Once the recipient has downloaded the file, disable the link or set it to expire automatically. This limits the amount of time the file is accessible and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Sharing public folders

Public links allow anyone with the link to access a file, which increases the risk of unauthorised downloads. If a link is forwarded or exposed, sensitive information may be accessed by unintended recipients. Use restricted access links that require verification or authentication where possible.

Weak passwords

Weak passwords are easier for attackers to guess or crack, even when a file is encrypted. Using short or common passwords can allow unauthorised users to access protected files. You should therefore use the same security practices as you would with your personal accounts, by using passwords that use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.

Frequently asked questions

Can I send encrypted files through email?

Yes, but the average limit when sending files via email is between 20 and 25 MB, so it is only enough to send small files. Some email services are not end-to-end encrypted, so if you want to send files privately by email, then Internxt Mail is the best option.

What's the best way to send large encrypted files?

Sending encrypted files the best way is by using cloud storage or secure file sharing services with zero-knowledge encryption like Internxt Drive or Send.

With end-to-end encryption, nobody but you and those with permission can view or edit your files.

How do I encrypt a file before sending?

If you use services with end-to-end encryption, then your files are automatically encrypted on your device and secured before they leave your device, making privacy and security convenient and worry-free.

You can also encrypt files manually using tools like password-protected ZIP archives or encryption software before sending them.

Is password protection enough?

Password protection is only as strong as the passwords you create. Even with the best encryption, a weak password can still leave shared files vulnerable, so make sure you use a strong password or passphrase to prevent files from being compromised.

How large can encrypted files be?

Different services have different limits depending on free or paid plans. Internxt offers large file sharing for up to 5GB with Send, and 10GB for Internxt Drive.

Dropbox encryption uses the standard AES 256 technology to protect your files, but it is not end-to-end encrypted.

So what does this mean?

Dropbox manages the encryption keys itself and stores your files in servers they own, so if they, or government authorities, wanted to access your files, they technically could.

So while Dropbox is a secure cloud option, it is not the most private, and this article will cover why by exploring:

• The encryption Dropbox uses
• Dropbox vs zero-knowledge encryption
• How to secure your files in Dropbox
• Alternatives to Dropbox

Table of contents

• Are Dropbox files encrypted?
• How to secure Dropbox files
• Alternatives to Dropbox encryption
• Is Dropbox encryption enough?
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

Are Dropbox files encrypted?

Yes. Dropbox encrypts files both in transit and at rest, here's how Dropbox encryption works:

• In transit: Files are encrypted using TLS (Transport Layer Security) while they're being uploaded or downloaded, helping protect them from interception.
• At rest: Once stored on Dropbox's servers, files are encrypted using AES-256 encryption.

This is what’s known as server-side encryption, meaning:

1. Dropbox manages the encryption keys.
2. Dropbox's systems can decrypt your files when necessary to provide features like previews, search, syncing, and sharing.
3. In some circumstances (such as complying with valid legal requests), Dropbox may be able to access file contents.

So if you’re wondering “are my Dropbox files encrypted?”, then yes, but they can be decrypted by Dropbox, meaning it’s not a fully private cloud storage solution.

You can learn more about Dropbox security and safety features in our article below.

Dropbox encryption vs end-to-end encryption

The main difference between Dropbox and zero-knowledge encryption is that if you choose cloud storage with zero-knowledge encryption, you manage and hold the encryption keys, and your files are encrypted on your device before being sent to the cloud.

This means nobody but you, or people you share files with, can access your files. As only you hold the encryption keys, even if a company was asked by law enforcement to access your files, it wouldn’t be possible.

Below is a summary of Dropbox encryption vs end-to-end encryption.

Not all companies use end-to-end encryption, but Internxt Drive encrypted cloud storage combines post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption for maximum privacy of your files. Not even Internxt can access your files, which can be verified by its open-source software and independent security audits.

This makes Internxt the best alternative to Dropbox for private encryption, plus a full product suite for maximum protection for your cloud, data, and devices online, with Meet, VPN, Mail, and Photos also available.

If you need end-to-end encryption as the default for your personal and confidential files, make the switch to Internxt for free, or choose from our paid and annual plans.

When Dropbox encryption is not enough

Dropbox cloud storage is often sufficient for everyday files where storage, backups, syncing, and collaboration are a higher priority than maximum privacy.

Dropbox also offers features for teams, and personal cloud storage with Dropbox offers a maximum of 2TB, with other Dropbox pricing plans available.

So while Dropbox is enough for general cloud storage, if you adding zero-knowledge encryption can provide a stronger security model where your files remain private even from Dropbox.

When Dropbox encryption is enough: everyday files such as documents, photos, and general work files where convenience, sharing, and easy access are the priority. It provides strong protection against data theft and unauthorized access.

When to use alternatives to Dropbox: when you need maximum privacy and zero-knowledge encryption for confidential business files, financial records, sensitive personal data, or information you do not want the cloud provider to access. These services give you control of the encryption keys, so only you can decrypt your files.

Why zero-knowledge is better than Dropbox encryption

End-to-end encrypted cloud storage is a better alternative to Dropbox because you have total control over your privacy, and you have the guarantee that only you can access your files in the cloud.

Aside from that, other benefits include:

1. Your privacy does not depend on trusting the company: With traditional cloud encryption, you must trust the provider's employees, security practices, and key management systems. Zero-knowledge reduces the amount of trust required.
2. A data breach reveals less: If attackers compromise a zero-knowledge cloud service, they may obtain encrypted files, but without your keys those files remain unreadable.
3. Better protection for sensitive information: personal documents, financial records, business files, medical information, private photos and archives are all protected from data breaches.

However, one thing to be aware of with zero-knowledge cloud storage is the additional security you need to add to your account.

If you forget your password to your account, the provider cannot reset it or access your files because they do not hold your encryption keys.

This is why it is important to securely store your backup key or recovery phrase, without it, you could lose access to your files unless they are backed up via another method.

How to secure Dropbox files

If you’re wondering how to secure Dropbox files for your account, then the following methods will help, and we will cover encryption alternatives afterwards.

To secure files in Dropbox, follow these steps, and the security and privacy from external hackers will greatly be increased.

1. Use a strong, unique password and 2FA
2. Manage sharing permissions carefully with password-protected links
3. Regularly review connected devices and apps
4. Back up important files separately
5. Monitor account activity

These methods will secure your files from external threats to your account, but if you have a Dropbox account and are wondering how to secure Dropbox files with zero-knowledge encryption, then keep reading, as we give you the best options below.

Alternatives to Dropbox encryption

Zero knowledge cloud storage

Services like Internxt Drive encrypt files directly on your device and give you total control over the encryption keys so not even the service provider can access your files.

Internxt is the first cloud storage with post-quantum cryptography, future-proofing your files against quantum computer threats which could break current encryption protocols like those used by Dropbox in the next few years.

Internxt therefore offers the best private cloud storage and a full product family to protect not only your cloud storage but also your personal data, devices, and online presence.

Best for: People who want secure cloud storage with maximum privacy and easy access across devices.

Cryptomator

Cryptomator adds an encryption layer to existing cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive. It’s an open-source app and is easy to set up with little to no tech knowledge required.

You can download it for Mac, Windows, or Linux, and it will create an encrypted vault in your cloud and encrypt your files to any cloud storage without ZKE, like Dropbox, OneDrive, or Google, who will only be able to see the unreadable, encrypted data.

Best for: People who want to keep using Dropbox or another cloud service while adding stronger encryption.

Self-hosting

Self-hosted cloud storage options, like Nextcloud, mean storing your files on your own server or hardware instead of relying on a third-party cloud provider. You control the storage, security settings, and access permissions.

It can be quite difficult to set up if you don’t have previous knowledge, and if you don’t configure the security settings properly, it could add even more security risks to your data.

Best for: Advanced users who want maximum control over their data and infrastructure.

Encrypted external drives

External hard drives or USB drives can be encrypted to protect files if the device is lost or stolen. Encryption tools like VeraCrypt or built-in device encryption prevent unauthorized access.

Best for: Offline backups, additional backup protection and protecting large amounts of sensitive data.

Network Attached Storage (NAS)

A NAS is a personal storage device connected to your home or office network that allows you to store, access, and manage your own files. It works like a private cloud where you control the hardware, storage, and security settings.

Many NAS systems support encryption, user permissions, backups, and remote access. Some cloud providers allow you to connect your NAS to your cloud account, and Internxt is one of these cloud providers that provides QNAP and Synology support, offering the benefit of Internxt’s private encryption, and the privacy of a NAS device.

Is Dropbox encryption enough?

If you want to store general documents and files, yes, Dropbox is a secure option for your files. But for true privacy and to guarantee nobody but you can access your files, you should consider encrypting files before uploading them to Dropbox if you already store a lot of files there.

For the best encrypted alternative to Dropbox, Internxt is the best cloud storage with zero-knowledge encryption for all files that is open source, built in Europe, and compliant with multiple regulations.

Start protecting your privacy with end-to-end encryption and enjoy all the privacy features Internxt has to offer to give you greater freedom and control online.

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Frequently asked questions

Does Dropbox use end-to-end encryption?

No, Dropbox does not use end-to-end encryption for standard cloud storage. Dropbox encrypts files on its servers, but the company manages the encryption keys. End-to-end encryption means only the user controls the keys needed to decrypt files.

Can Dropbox see my files?

Dropbox can potentially access your files because it manages the encryption keys. This allows features such as file previews, search, syncing, and sharing. With zero-knowledge encryption, the provider cannot access your files because only you hold the encryption keys.

How to secure Dropbox files if I have a lot of private files stored there?

Use apps like Cryptomator to create an encrypted vault, monitor your privacy and security settings, and make sure your Dropbox account has all the security protocols required to protect it from hackers.

Is Dropbox safer than Google Drive or OneDrive?

Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive all provide strong security features. However, none of these mainstream providers offer full zero-knowledge encryption by default for normal cloud storage, so privacy-focused alternatives may provide stronger protection.

Cryptomator is one of the most trusted open-source tools for encrypting files before they reach the cloud, but it's not the perfect fit for everyone.

Some users want built-in zero-knowledge cloud storage instead of managing encrypted vaults, while others need full-disk encryption, secure backups, or tools designed for teams and enterprise environments.

Whether you're looking for a Cryptomator alternative or a solution tailored to your specific privacy needs, you'll find the right alternative to Cryptomator to protect your files, backups, and sensitive data in this article.

Table of contents

• What is Cryptomator?
• Top 10 Cryptomator alternatives
• Which Cryptomator alternative should you use?
• What is the best Cryptomator alternative?
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

What is Cryptomator?

Cryptomator is an open-source encryption tool available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices.

Cryptomator creates a secure encrypted folder, called a vault, where your files are stored. Files and file names are encrypted using AES-256 data encryption and stored with your cloud provider.

If you use Google Drive, for example, the files are stored in their cloud, but they cannot read the contents because files are encrypted before they leave your device, so this kind of third-party tool is commonly used to create a Google Drive encrypted folder.

How does Cryptomator work?

Cryptomator creates a secure vault within your current cloud storage subscription. The location can be a cloud folder, an external drive, or a local folder.

Once created, Cryptomator performs the following actions:

1. Cryptomator creates an encrypted vault using AES-256 encryption to protect file contents.
2. Files are split, encrypted, and stored as encrypted data blocks inside the vault. Original filenames and folder structures are also encrypted to hide metadata.
3. The vault uses a master key that is protected by a password-based key.
4. When a file is accessed, Cryptomator decrypts the required data in memory and provides it to the operating system without creating an unencrypted copy.
5. When changes are made, Cryptomator encrypts the modified data before writing it back to the vault.
6. The cloud provider only synchronizes encrypted files and metadata, meaning it cannot access the original data or file structure.

This process is similar to how zero-knowledge encrypted cloud storage works, such as Internxt Drive.

Files are encrypted directly on your device before they are uploaded, using encryption methods such as AES-256 and Kyber-512, meaning Internxt cannot access or read your files.

Your entire Internxt Drive account functions like an encrypted vault, removing the need to install a separate tool like Cryptomator.

If you are looking for an alternative to Cryptomator, then zero-knowledge, encrypted cloud storage provides built-in encryption while keeping the same privacy principles.

Why people use Cryptomator

Cryptomator is useful for people who have specific files or data they want to keep private from the current cloud provider they use.

Most traditional cloud storage providers encrypt files while they are stored on their servers, but the provider still controls the encryption keys, so Cryptomator prevents access to private and confidential files by encrypting files before they’re uploaded to the cloud.

The storage location can also be on a hard drive, a USB device, a NAS device, or a local folder. The encryption happens before the data is stored, so the underlying storage system does not need to be trusted.

Aside from cloud storage, Cryptomator or an alternative to Cryptomator can be used for the following use cases:

Is Cryptomator free?

Yes, Cryptomator is free and open source.

The desktop version for Windows, macOS, and Linux is available as a free download. If you’re a fan of the software, you can also donate to the company.

For iOS and Android, the app is free to download with options to unlock the full version for the following prices:

• Annual: €9.99
• Lifetime license: €29.99

You can also try the service for free for 30 days to see if it’s right for you.

Cryptomator Hub is also available, designed for teams and multiple users to encrypt and secure their data at the following prices:

The same level of encryption for teams is also available with the right cloud storage for teams, which includes additional features on top of private cloud storage.

Is Cryptomator worth it?

Yes, Cryptomator is worth it if you already use a cloud storage provider like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive and want to add client-side encryption without migrating your files to another cloud provider.

It is also a good choice if: Cryptomator is a good choice if you:

• Need an open-source, audited encryption tool.
• Want to encrypt files stored on external drives, USB devices, or NAS systems.
• Prefer managing your own encryption keys.

However, Cryptomator may not be the best option if you want to encrypt your files without taking the extra steps required.

Because it adds an extra encryption layer, you need to install and manage a separate application, unlock vaults before accessing files, and manually share encrypted vaults with others.

Team collaboration also requires Cryptomator Hub or manual password management.

If your main goal is secure cloud storage, a zero-knowledge provider such as Internxt Drive, or another Cryptomator alternative from the list below may be a more convenient alternative.

Top 10 Cryptomator alternatives

Internxt Drive

Internxt is a fully encrypted cryptomator alternative that includes post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption for free and paid plans.

No extra setup, vault, or password is required for end-to-end encrypted files, as everything is automatically encrypted on your device by Internxt before being sent to the cloud.

It is an open-source cloud platform, based in Europe with GDPR, ISO 27001, SOC 2, and HIPAA compliance, offering full data encryption and secure data handling for all industries and all file types.

Internxt has been audited twice by Securitum to validate the platform’s security. Due to its open source software, security experts can evaluate the platform to ensure there are no weaknesses or vulnerabilities in the cryptography.

For users who want to migrate files for extra privacy in the cloud, you can follow the steps in the article below:

For extra privacy, Internxt also offers NAS support for QNAP and Synology devices for a secure home and hybrid-based setup.

• Encryption type: AES-256 & Kyber-512
• Open source: Yes
• Independently audited: Yes
• Based: Valencia, Spain
• Features: Drive, VPN, Cleaner, Antivirus, Meet, Mail, Photos
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Mobile, Rclone, NAS
• Cost: Free, €1.99/month, €285 lifetime

Proton Drive

Proton Drive is a privacy-focused cloud storage service that offers end-to-end and zero-access encryption on all plans, including its free tier. Files are encrypted on your device before they are uploaded, ensuring that not even Proton can access your data.

Based in Switzerland, Proton benefits from strong Swiss privacy laws and provides some open-source applications. The service also supports secure file sharing, encrypted document editing with Proton Docs, and integrates with the wider Proton ecosystem.

• Encryption type: End-to-end encryption (OpenPGP-based, AES-256 for file encryption)
• Open source: Yes
• Independently audited: Yes
• Based: Switzerland
• Features: Drive, Docs, Sheets, secure file sharing
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iPhone, Web
• Cost: Free (5 GB), Drive Plus €4.99/month (200 GB), Proton Unlimited €12.99/month (500 GB + Proton suite)

pCloud

If you already have a pCloud account, your files are not protected with zero-knowledge encryption, but you can buy pCloud vault as a paid extra and alternative to Cryptomator.

This works in the same way as Cryptomator, but is significantly more expensive (€150 on top of pCloud prices).

So if you have a pCloud lifetime account, it may be worth combining it with the free Cryptomator app if you don’t want to spend extra, or consider cloud storage with zero-knowledge encryption built in, as files outside the pCloud vault do not have the same encryption as the pCloud vault.

VeraCrypt

VeraCrypt is a popular alternative to Cryptomator and is a free, open-source disk encryption tool that protects files and folders.

Instead of creating encrypted cloud vaults, VeraCrypt creates encrypted containers or encrypts entire drives. Files are encrypted and decrypted automatically as you use them, but they remain inaccessible without the correct password or keyfile.

As a Cryptomator alternative, VeraCrypt is best suited for users who want to protect local files, backups, USB drives, or full system drives rather than encrypting files before uploading them to the cloud.

• Encryption type: AES, Serpent, Twofish (including cascaded combinations)
• Open source: Yes
• Based: France
• Features: Encrypted containers, full disk encryption, partition encryption, USB encryption, hidden volumes, hidden operating system
• Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Cost: Free (with the option to donate)

Microsoft BitLocker

Microsoft BitLocker is a full-disk encryption feature built into Windows that protects entire drives, including the operating system, internal drives, and removable storage, to protect data if a device is lost or stolen.

BitLocker is best suited for encrypting and protecting local devices rather than cloud storage.

• Encryption type: XTS-AES 128-bit or 256-bit
• Open source: No
• Based: Redmond, Washington, USA
• Features: Full disk encryption, TPM integration, BitLocker To Go (USB encryption), recovery keys, Active Directory and Microsoft Entra integration
• Platforms: Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, Education, Windows Server
• Cost: Included with Windows Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions

FileVault

For Apple users looking to protect their device, FileVault is Apple's built-in full-disk encryption feature for macOS that protects all data stored on your Mac's internal drive.

It integrates with the Secure Enclave on supported Macs to securely manage encryption keys. Once enabled, encryption happens automatically in the background with no additional software or configuration required.

FileVault is designed to protect your Mac if it is lost or stolen by encrypting the entire startup disk. It secures everything stored locally on the device, but it does not provide end-to-end encryption for files stored in cloud services.

• Encryption type: XTS-AES 128-bit
• Open source: No
• Based: Cupertino, California, USA
• Features: Full disk encryption, Secure Enclave integration, recovery keys, automatic background encryption
• Platforms: macOS
• Cost: Free (included with macOS)

LUKS

LUKS (Linux Unified Key Setup) is the standard disk encryption format for Linux, providing encryption for entire drives, partitions, and removable storage.

It is built on the Linux kernel's dm-crypt subsystem, with LUKS2 being the current version used by most modern Linux distributions.

LUKS is commonly used on desktops, servers, and enterprise Linux systems to protect data at rest. It can be enabled during the installation of most Linux distributions or added later using cryptsetup, making it a flexible solution for securing local storage.

• Encryption type: AES-XTS by default (also supports other Linux kernel cryptographic algorithms such as Serpent and Twofish)
• Open source: Yes
• Based: Linux ecosystem
• Features: Full disk encryption, partition encryption, removable media encryption, multiple key slots, Argon2id key derivation, dm-crypt integration
• Platforms: Linux
• Cost: Free

Rclone Crypt

Rclone Crypt is a free, open-source Cryptomator alternative using client-side encryption that adds an encryption layer to almost any cloud storage with Rclone support, such as Internxt Drive.

Instead of providing its own cloud storage, it encrypts files and filenames before they are uploaded to an existing local or remote storage backend, allowing you to securely use services such as NAS devices.

Rclone Crypt works by creating an encrypted remote that sits on top of another storage backend. Files are encrypted locally using NaCl SecretBox (XSalsa20-Poly1305), while filenames are encrypted separately using AES-EME.

Because encryption happens on your device, the underlying storage provider only sees encrypted data and cannot access your files without your encryption keys.

Rclone Crypt is best suited for advanced users who already use Rclone for syncing, backups, or mounting cloud storage.

• Encryption type: NaCl SecretBox (XSalsa20-Poly1305) for file contents, AES-EME for filenames, scrypt key derivation
• Open source: Yes
• Based: Community-developed
• Features: Client-side encryption, encrypted filenames, support for 70+ storage backends, cloud sync, local folder encryption, NAS support, command-line automation
• Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, FreeBSD, Android (via third-party clients)
• Cost: Free

DiskCryptor

DiskCryptor is a free, open-source disk encryption tool for Windows that encrypts entire drives, system partitions, external hard drives, and USB devices.

It supports multiple encryption algorithms, including cascaded combinations, allowing users to choose between performance and additional layers of cryptographic protection.

DiskCryptor is designed for users who want full control over disk encryption without relying on proprietary software. It supports pre-boot authentication, transparent background encryption, and automatic mounting of encrypted removable drives after authentication.

• Encryption type: AES-256, Twofish, Serpent (including cascaded combinations)
  
• Open source: Yes
• Based: Community-developed
• Features: Full disk encryption, system partition encryption, removable media encryption, pre-boot authentication, bootloader support, cascaded encryption algorithms
• Platforms: Windows
• Cost: Free

Duplicati

Duplicati is a free, open-source backup application that creates encrypted, compressed, and incremental backups to cloud storage services, remote servers, NAS devices like QNAP or Synology, or local storage.

Before any backup is uploaded, Duplicati compresses and encrypts the data locally using AES-256 by default, with the option to use GPG encryption instead. It also supports scheduling, deduplication, and versioned backups, helping reduce storage usage while allowing files to be restored from previous backup versions.

• Encryption type: AES-256 (default), GPG optional
• Open source: Yes
• Based: Community-developed
• Features: Encrypted backups, incremental backups, deduplication, compression, scheduling, versioning, support for 50+ storage providers
• Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Cost: Free (optional Duplicati Console plans available for centralized monitoring and management)

Which Cryptomator alternative should you use?

If you’re looking for a Cryptomator alternative that’s open source, Internxt Drive is the best option, as post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption are included in all plans, with no extra setup or installation needed.

For other encryption needs, the following Cryptomator alternatives will show you which fits your use case.

What is the best Cryptomator alternative?

The best Cryptomator alternative is a cloud service which already has zero-knowledge encryption built in to its plans, so you don’t have to manually encrypt files yourself. It should also be open source, so you can trust the transparency of the company.

For this reason, Internxt Drive is the best Cryptomator alternative for cloud storage, and the options below can meet your other encryption needs for your devices or cloud storage backups.

Related products

Frequently asked questions

What is the best alternative to Cryptomator?

The best Cryptomator alternative depends on what you need.

If you want encrypted cloud storage with zero-knowledge encryption built in, Internxt Drive is an excellent choice because it encrypts files automatically before they are uploaded.

If you need to encrypt local drives instead of cloud files, VeraCrypt, BitLocker, FileVault, or LUKS are better options.

What other features do alternatives to Cryptomator offer?

Many Cryptomator alternatives offer features beyond file encryption. Depending on the service, these can include encrypted cloud storage, file sharing, automatic backups, document editing, VPNs, antivirus protection, email, video meetings, photo storage, full-disk encryption, and support for NAS devices or command-line automation.

Is Cryptomator secure?

Yes. Cryptomator is considered a secure encryption tool and has been independently audited.

It uses strong client-side encryption to protect files before they are stored and keeps the encryption keys on your device, so cloud providers cannot access your data. As with any encryption software, your security depends on using a strong password and keeping it safe.

Is Cryptomator legit?

Yes. Cryptomator is a legitimate open-source encryption project that has been available since 2016.

It is widely used by individuals, businesses, and privacy-conscious users to protect files stored locally or in the cloud. Its source code is publicly available, allowing security researchers and the wider community to review how it works.

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As we store more of our data online, we have to take additional measures to protect personal, business, or enterprise data against hardware failures, accidental deletion, ransomware, and theft.

Without the right tools and security protocols in place, not having a reliable backup can result in permanent data loss if you don't have a reliable backup.

While cloud storage solutions like Dropbox may seem like a popular choice, they may not cover all your data protection, security, or privacy needs.

So we compare Dropbox vs cloud backup tools that are popular choices to protect files, which include:

• Dropbox vs Internxt
• Dropbox vs IDrive
• Dropbox vs Carbonite
• Dropbox backup vs Backblaze

To help you understand cloud storage and cloud storage backups in more detail, and to help you choose which service is right for you, we will also cover:

• Backups vs cloud syncing
• What makes a good backup solution
• Features of Dropbox vs cloud backup tools
• Pricing
• Alternatives to Dropbox

Table of contents

• Is Dropbox a cloud backup tool?
• What makes a good cloud backup tool in 2026?
• Dropbox vs cloud backup tools 2026
• Dropbox vs cloud backup: Which option should you choose?
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

Is Dropbox a cloud backup tool?

No, Dropbox is primarily a cloud storage and file synchronization service, not a traditional cloud backup tool.

Its main purpose is to keep files synced across your devices so you can access, edit, and share them from anywhere.

Because Dropbox stores copies of your files in the cloud, many people assume it functions as a complete backup solution.

While it does provide version history and file recovery for a limited period, it is designed to keep your files synchronized rather than maintain independent backup copies.

You can learn more about the features of Dropbox, storage, and costs in the article below:

Dropbox pros

• Excellent collaboration
• Fast sync
• Huge app ecosystem

Dropbox cons

• Not a true backup solution
• Storage limits
• Deleted files can sync across devices

Below, you can find an overall comparison of Dropbox vs cloud backup tools.

Cloud sync vs cloud backup: What’s the difference?

A file sync service like Dropbox keeps your files identical across all connected devices. If you add, edit, rename, or delete a file, those changes are synchronized in the desktop apps, web, or mobile apps.

A cloud backup service creates separate copies of your data to protect it from loss. Instead of mirroring every change, it continuously backs up your files so they can be restored if your computer is stolen, your hard drive fails, or your data is corrupted or encrypted by ransomware.

Misconceptions about Dropbox

One of the biggest misconceptions is that storing files in Dropbox means they're fully backed up. While Dropbox keeps your files in the cloud and lets you recover deleted files or previous versions for a limited time, its primary goal is synchronization, not long-term data protection.

Another common misunderstanding is that Dropbox can restore an entire computer after a hardware failure.

In reality, Dropbox only restores the files stored in your Dropbox account. It doesn't back up your operating system, installed applications, system settings, or your entire hard drive like a dedicated cloud backup service can.

Why cloud backup services exist

Dedicated cloud backup services are designed to protect your data when something goes wrong.

They automatically back up your files in the background, preserve recoverable copies over time, and provide recovery options if your computer is damaged, lost, infected with ransomware, or suffers a complete drive failure.

For users who only need file syncing and collaboration, Dropbox is often enough. But if your priority is recovering from data loss or protecting your entire computer, a dedicated cloud backup solution offers a much higher level of protection.

What makes a good cloud backup tool in 2026?

Automatic backups

Cloud storage solutions, like Internxt or Dropbox, can automatically back up selected folders from your computer, but dedicated cloud backup services take this much further, as they can back up your files in the background, ensuring new and changed data is protected automatically without relying on you to choose what to sync or upload.

Unlimited vs limited storage

Dropbox personal plans are limited to 3TB, whereas cloud backup tools offer scalable storage for up to petabytes of data, like Internxt S3, or unlimited cloud storage for your backups. Choosing which option is best depends on your current and future needs.

External drive backup

Backing up your files in multiple cloud storage providers, as well as with SSDs or hard drives, is highly recommended so you always have a backed-up copy of important data available should it need to be recovered.

Dropbox doesn't back up external drives, while dedicated cloud backup services like Backblaze, IDrive, and Carbonite can protect external drives on supported plans.

NAS support

Some cloud storage services offer support for a hybrid cloud setup, such as NAS support; however, Dropbox doesn’t offer this feature.

Services like Internxt Drive, however, offer NAS cloud backups, with support for QNAP and Synology devices to give you secure encrypted backups in a private cloud environment.

Security & encryption

Dropbox and Carbonite manage encryption keys by default, making them more convenient but offering less privacy than a true zero-knowledge, end-to-end encrypted backup service, as they hold the encryption keys and can theoretically access your files.

IDrive allows you to create a private key that only you know, providing true zero-knowledge encryption because the key never leaves your control.

Backblaze also lets you set a private encryption key, but you must provide that key to Backblaze when restoring files through its web interface, so it isn't considered true end-to-end or zero-knowledge encryption during that process.

If you want true end-to-end encryption by default for your backups, then Internxt Drive encrypted cloud storage and Internxt S3 cloud object storage provide this for all plans, without the need for a private encryption key, which can easily be lost, causing you to lose access to all your files.

Dropbox vs cloud backup tools 2026

Now we know the difference between Dropbox vs cloud backup tools, and what features you need if your focus is cloud backups, below is a comparison of Dropbox vs cloud backup tools dedicated to backups only.

Dropbox vs Internxt

If you need cloud storage for backups, Internxt Drive offers a secure alternative to Dropbox that includes end-to-end encrypted backups via the Windows, Mac, or Linux desktop apps. Internxt also offers NAS support for QNAP and Synology, and native Rclone support for advanced cloud management.

For enterprises, Internxt S3 cloud object storage offers backups for large amounts of data, with GDPR, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and SOC 2 compliance. Plans offer pay-as-you-go pricing for €7/TB/month, offering a scalable and affordable cloud backup solution for businesses and enterprises.

Dropbox vs IDrive

IDrive takes a backup-first approach. Its Personal plans are built specifically for backing up multiple computers, smartphones, tablets, and external drives under a single account.

Unlike Dropbox, IDrive automatically creates backup copies of your data in the background, allowing you to restore files if your device is lost, damaged, or infected with ransomware.

It also supports full disk image backups and NAS cloud backups, making it a much more comprehensive backup solution.

IDrive also offers add-ons to back up files automatically from:

• Microsoft Office 365
• Google Workspace
• Dropbox
• Box

IDrive also offers S3 cloud object storage for enterprises and offers Veeam-ready object storage for businesses.

IDrive, however, is based in the US, so if you want European cloud storage and the same S3 features as IDrive, you can consider Internxt S3 to meet your enterprise cloud storage needs.

For IDrive safety features, it is a secure solution, but not end-to-end encrypted by default, so you have to create and save your encryption key in a secure place, or risk losing your files.

iDrive pros

• Multiple devices
• Rich backup features
• Good value

IDrive cons

• Not end-to-end encrypted by default
• More complex interface
• Storage quotas

Dropbox vs IDrive pricing

Dropbox vs Carbonite

Carbonite is built specifically to create automatic backups of your computer. Once installed, it runs quietly in the background, continuously backing up your files without requiring you to manually upload them or organize them into sync folders.

One of Carbonite's biggest advantages is its unlimited cloud backup storage. Unlike Dropbox, which gives you a fixed storage allowance based on your subscription, Carbonite's personal plans let you back up one computer with no storage limit.

You can also back up one external hard drive with Plus and Prime plans, making it easier to recover your entire system after a hardware failure or ransomware attack.

Dropbox, by comparison, is better suited to users who need quick access to files across multiple devices or frequently collaborate with others. Carbonite's strength lies in long-term data protection, offering a hands-off backup solution that requires very little ongoing management.

Carbonite pros

• Automatic backups
• Easy recovery
• Business options

Carbonite cons

• Feature limitations on lower-tier plans
• Less flexible than IDrive

Dropbox vs Carbonite pricing

Dropbox backup vs Backblaze

Dropbox Backup vs Backblaze backups have one major difference: Dropbox offers automatic cloud backups for your files, while Backblaze is designed to protect your entire computer with unlimited cloud backup storage.

Backblaze scans your computer and continuously backs up your files in the background, requiring little to no maintenance.

Its biggest advantage is unlimited cloud backup storage. Every personal subscription covers one Windows or Mac computer with no storage limits, making it ideal for users with large photo libraries, video collections, or years of accumulated files.

Backblaze also backs up one directly connected external hard drive at no additional cost, provided it is connected periodically.

Backblaze also includes version history, ransomware recovery options, and several restore methods, including downloadable ZIP files or having a USB drive shipped to you for large recoveries.

If your priority is protecting a single computer with unlimited, automatic backups and virtually no setup, Backblaze is arguably the strongest alternative to Dropbox Backup. It sacrifices collaboration and syncing features in favour of making backup as simple and reliable as possible.

Backblaze pros

• Unlimited backup
• Very easy setup
• Affordable

Backblaze cons

• One computer per license
• Limited collaboration features

Dropbox vs Backblaze pricing

Dropbox vs cloud backup: Which option should you choose?

Each service excels in different areas. The right choice depends on whether you need file syncing, unlimited backup storage, or advanced backup features. Here's a quick guide to help you decide.

Choose Dropbox if:

• You need file syncing and collaboration.
• You regularly work across multiple devices.
• Cloud storage is more important than full computer backup.

Choose Internxt Drive if:

• You need zero-knowledge encryption
• You need lifetime cloud storage
• You need a full online privacy suite of Antivirus, backups, VPN, Meet, and more

Choose Internxt S3 if:

• You need secure, cloud object storage
• A cheaper alternative to AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud
• Scalable storage, with no additional data transfer fees

Dropbox backup vs Backblaze: choose Backblaze if:

• You want unlimited cloud backup for one computer.
• You prefer a simple, set-it-and-forget-it backup solution.
• Automatic backups are your top priority.

Dropbox vs IDrive: Choose IDrive if:

• You need to back up multiple devices under one account.
• You want advanced backup features, including NAS and disk image backups.
• You prefer a dedicated backup plan with generous storage.

Dropbox vs Carbonite: Choose Carbonite if:

• You want unlimited cloud backup for one computer.
• You prefer continuous, hands-off backups.
• You need reliable protection for your computer and external hard drive.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Dropbox a backup?

Dropbox Backup can automatically back up your files, but Dropbox is primarily a cloud storage and file synchronization service, so if you only need cloud backups, you should consider alternatives.

Dropbox vs Backblaze: which is cheaper?

Backblaze is generally cheaper for cloud backups. It starts at $9 per month for unlimited backup storage for one computer, while Dropbox Plus costs $9.99 per month (billed annually) and includes 2 TB of cloud storage.

Dropbox vs iDrive: which has more storage?

IDrive offers more storage on its entry-level backup plan, with 5 TB compared to Dropbox Plus's 2 TB. Dropbox's Business Plus plan includes up to 15 TB of shared storage, while IDrive also offers larger backup plans for users with greater storage needs.

What's the 3-2-1 backup rule?

The 3-2-1 backup rule recommends keeping three copies of your data, storing them on two different types of media, and keeping one copy off-site. For example, you could keep the original files on your computer, a copy on an external hard drive, and another copy in a cloud backup service.

General cloud storage and photo storage for photographers are similar in the sense that photos are stored in the cloud, but professional photographers have different requirements when choosing the best cloud storage for photographers.

For this reason, this article covers cloud storage for photography enthusiasts, whether you do it for a hobby or professionally; we cover everything, including:

• Features, pricing
• RAW photo cloud storage
• Best cloud backup for photos
• How much storage photographers need
• Which is the best cloud storage for your needs
• How to choose the right storage option

Table of contents

• How much cloud storage do photographers need?
• What is cloud storage for photographers?
• How to choose the best cloud storage for photographers
• The 12 best cloud storage for photographers
• What’s the best cloud storage for photographers?
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

How much cloud storage do photographers need?

Depending on how you work in photography, you will need to consider small or larger plans to meet your current and future needs.

The guide below gives you a general idea based on how many and the types of photos you take.

• Hobbyist: Between 100 GB and 500 GB (enough for~20,000–100,000 standard JPEG photos or ~2,000–10,000 RAW photos)
• Enthusiast: Between 500 GB and 2 TB (enough for ~100,000–400,000 standard JPEG photos or ~10,000–40,000 RAW photos)
• Professional: Between 2 TB and 10 TB (enough for ~400,000–2,000,000 standard JPEG photos or ~40,000–200,000 RAW photos)
• Wedding photographer: From 10 TB+ (enough for ~2,000,000 standard JPEG photos or ~200,000 RAW photos)
• Commercial studio: From 20 TB+ (~4,000,000 standard JPEG photos or ~400,000 RAW photos)

What is cloud storage for photographers?

General cloud storage is an online service that lets you store, access, sync, and share files over the internet.

Cloud storage for photographers offers the same core functionality but is specifically designed for managing photo libraries, with features such as RAW photo support, client galleries, editing integrations, and automatic photo backups.

Cloud storage for photos focuses on the complete photography workflow. Instead of simply storing files, these platforms help photographers organize their libraries, protect their work with automatic backups, share galleries with clients, sell prints, and collaborate on projects.

Below, you can find a more detailed comparison between general and photo storage for professionals.

How to choose the best cloud storage for photographers

RAW photo cloud storage and why it's important

RAW photo cloud storage is designed to store original, uncompressed image files captured by DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

Unlike JPEGs, RAW files preserve all the image data recorded by the camera sensor, giving photographers much greater flexibility when editing exposure, color, white balance, and other settings.

RAW files are significantly larger than standard photo formats, ranging from 20 to 100 MB, so photographers need hundreds of gigabytes at the very least or even several terabytes of cloud storage to back up their work.

Secure backups

Your cloud storage should automatically back up your photos to protect them from accidental deletion, hardware failure, theft, or ransomware.

The best cloud backup for photos includes automatic syncing, such as Internxt Photos or Google Photos, to ensure your latest photos are safely stored without requiring manual uploads.

Storage capacity

Photo libraries grow quickly, especially if you need RAW cloud storage specifically. For this, free cloud storage probably isn’t enough, so you should choose a provider with enough storage for your current collection and future shoots.

Many photographers start with 1 TB, while professionals often require several terabytes of storage.

If you need more than 10TB of storage, services like Internxt S3 let you scale storage to adapt to your needs, or you may want to consider unlimited cloud storage options.

End-to-end encryption

If privacy is your main concern for your photos, you may want to avoid mainstream cloud storage and choose a provider with end-to-end encryption like Internxt.

End-to-end encryption is included in the best secure photo apps and ensures only you can access your files because they are encrypted before they leave your device.

This provides a higher level of privacy than standard cloud encryption, making it ideal for photographers storing sensitive client work or personal photo libraries.

Client sharing and album sharing

If you work with clients, look for cloud storage that lets you create shareable galleries or albums with password protection, download permissions, and proofing features. These tools make it easier to deliver photos professionally, collaborate with clients, and send large files securely.

Lightroom compatibility

If you edit your photos in Adobe Lightroom, choose a service that integrates with Lightroom to sync photos, upload, and organize edited images more efficiently.

Pricing

If you do photography as a hobby, then a free cloud account or free trial that has a limit of 1,000 photos may be enough.

Compare both the storage included and the monthly or annual cost, or whether lifetime cloud storage is worth the investment. Consider whether you're paying for storage alone or additional tools like client galleries, print sales, portfolio websites, or editing integrations.

The 12 best cloud storage for photographers

Internxt Drive & Photos (best for photographers who need privacy)

Internxt offers encrypted cloud storage for photos for photographers who need end-to-end encrypted storage and automatic backup and syncing for their photos and albums.

Best for:

• Professional photographers
• Freelance creatives
• Privacy-conscious users
• Long-term photo backup
• RAW photo cloud storage
• Secure client file delivery

Features:

• Zero-knowledge, post-quantum encryption
• Sync your photos across all devices
• Automatic backups
• Secure file sharing via link or email
• Includes a full privacy suite of Meet, Mail, and more

Plans:

• 1GB free storage
• From €1.99/month or €285 for lifetime (1TB Essential plan with 85% special offer)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Google Photos (Best for Android users)

Google Photos is a popular option due to its high free storage plan, automatic photo backup, AI-powered organization, and easy sharing across all their devices.

Best for:

• Family
• Travel
• Everyday photography
• Photography hobbyists

Features:

• Automatic backup
• AI photo search
• Magic Editor
• Cross-device syncing

Plans:

• 15 GB free storage
• Google One starts at US$1.99/month (100 GB)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

iCloud (Best for Apple users)

If you’re considering Google Photos vs iCloud, then iCloud offers automatic photo syncing, seamless integration across Apple devices, and secure backup for Apple users.

Best for:

• iPhone photographers
• Apple users
• Family
• Mobile photography

Features:

• Automatic photo syncing
• Shared Albums
• Original-quality photo storage
• RAW support
• End-to-end encryption for supported data with Advanced Data Protection enabled

Plans:

• 5 GB free storage
• Starts at US$0.99/month (50 GB)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Pic-Time (Best overall photographer platform)

Pic-Time offers photo storage for professionals among other features for those who need beautiful client galleries, secure photo delivery, proofing tools, and integrated print sales to manage and share their work professionally.

Best for:

• Wedding
• Portrait
• Family
• Commercial

Features:

• Unlimited client galleries
• Beautiful client experience
• Print store
• AI sales automation
• Album proofing
• Video support
• Lightroom plugin

Plans:

• 3 GB free storage (free plan)
• Starts at ~US$10/month

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Pixieset (Best for client galleries)

Pixieset offers client galleries, proofing tools, online stores, and business management features to deliver, share, and sell their work professionally

Best for:

• Wedding
• Portrait
• Family
• Event

Features:

• Unlimited client galleries
• Print store
• Mobile gallery apps
• Custom branding & domain
• Video support
• RAW photo uploads (Pro plan and above)

Plans:

• 3 GB free storage (free plan)
• Starts at US$8/month

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Adobe Lightroom Cloud (Best for Adobe photographers)

Adobe Lightroom Cloud is one of the most popular photo storage for professionals as its plans include RAW editing, cloud syncing, AI-powered organization, and access to their photo library across desktop, mobile, and web.

Best for:

• Professional
• Landscape
• Travel
• Wildlife
• Commercial

Features:

• Cloud-based RAW photo storage
• Lightroom Classic integration
• AI-powered search
• Automatic cloud syncing
• Shared albums
• Adobe Camera Raw support

Plans:

• No free storage plan
• Starts at US$11.99/month (1 TB Lightroom plan)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Mylio Photos + (Best for photographers with multiple devices)

Mylio Photos+ offers photo management for photographers who need to organize, sync, and back up their photo libraries across multiple devices without relying on a single cloud provider.

Best for:

• Travel
• Wildlife
• Hobbyist
• Family
• Professional

Features:

• Sync across unlimited devices
• Works with NAS devices
• Automatic backup
• AI features
• Offline access
• Duplicate photo detection
• RAW file support

Plans:

• Free plan available
• Starts at approximately US$14.99/month (Photos+)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Zenfolio (Best for photography businesses)

Zenfolio offers client galleries, proofing, online sales, and business management tools to showcase and sell their work professionally.

Best for:

• Wedding
• Portrait
• Family
• School

Features:

• Unlimited photo storage
• Client galleries
• Online proofing
• Invoicing
• Custom domains
• Lightroom integration

Plans:

• No free storage plan
• Starts at approximately US$9/month (annual billing)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

SmugMug (Best for unlimited photo storage)

SmugMug is popular as it offers unlimited cloud storage for photographers who need secure photo backup, client galleries, portfolio websites, and print sales in one platform.

Best for:

• Wedding
• Portrait
• Landscape
• Wildlife
• Commercial

Features:

• Unlimited photo & video storage
• Client galleries
• Password-protected sharing
• Lightroom integration
• Watermarking
• Privacy controls

Plans:

• No free storage plan
• Starts at US$20/month (annual billing)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Flickr (Best for photo sharing)

Flickr is a community and cloud platform for those who need a large online photo library, community exposure, and photo sharing alongside secure cloud backup.

Best for:

• Hobbyists
• Landscape
• Travel
• Wildlife
• Street

Features:

• Photographer profiles
• Public and private sharing
• RAW file uploads
• Statistics
• Unlimited storage with Pro
• Flickr community discovery

Plans:

• Free plan (up to 1,000 photos)
• Flickr Pro starts at approximately US$10.44/month (annual billing)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Backblaze (Best for automatic photo backup)

Backblaze also offers unlimited cloud backups for photographers who need automatic, secure, off-site protection for their RAW photos and photo libraries without having to manually manage their backups.

Best for:

• Professional photographers
• Photography enthusiasts
• RAW photo backup
• Long-term photo archives
• Disaster recovery

Features:

• Unlimited and unlimited cloud backups
• File version history
• Optional private encryption key
• Restore by download
• USB drive restore
  

Plans:

• No free storage plan (15-day free trial)
• Starts at US$9/month or US$99/year (Personal Backup)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Amazon Photos (Best for Amazon Prime members)

Since Amazon Drive is no longer available, Amazon Photos is the alternative option for photo backup, automatic syncing, and unlimited photo storage with an Amazon Prime membership.

Best for:

• Photography enthusiasts
• Family
• Travel
• Mobile photography
• Amazon Prime members

Features:

• Unlimited full-resolution photo storage (Prime members)
• Automatic photo backup
• Automatic syncing across devices
• RAW photo support
• Family Vault (share with up to five family members)

Plans:

• 5 GB free storage (When you create an Amazon account)
• Unlimited photo storage + 5 GB video storage with Amazon Prime
• Additional storage plans start at US$0.99/month (50 GB)

Overall ranking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

What’s the best cloud storage for photographers?

Now that we’ve covered the best photo storage for professionals, individuals, hobbyists, and others, choosing which is the best cloud storage for photographers depends on your workflow, budget, and priorities.

Here are the best options based on different needs.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best cloud backup for photos?

If you're looking for secure, privacy-focused backups, Internxt is an excellent choice thanks to its end-to-end encryption and automatic photo backup. If you need unlimited automatic backups for large photo libraries, Backblaze is one of the best options available.

For additional protection, you choose the best cloud backup for photos that meet your needs and follow the 3-2-1 backup rule by keeping your photos on your computer, an external hard drive, and in the cloud.

How much storage do photographers need?

As a general guide, hobbyists usually need between 100 GB and 500 GB; amateur photographers are better suited to between 500 GB and 2 TB.

Professional photographers typically need 2 TB to 10 TB or more, especially if they regularly shoot in RAW or cover weddings, events, commercial projects, or other high-volume work.

Is cloud storage safe for RAW files?

Yes, cloud storage is safe for RAW files as long as you choose a reputable provider.

If privacy is your top priority, choose a provider that offers end-to-end or zero-knowledge encryption, such as Internxt, so only you can access your RAW files.

What is the cheapest cloud storage for large photo libraries?

Internxt offers one of the lowest entry prices, with plans starting from €1.99/month for 1 TB.

Google One plans start at US$1.99/month for 100 GB, while iCloud starts at US$0.99/month for 50 GB, although these smaller plans are better suited to casual photographers than large photo libraries.

Amazon Photos also provides unlimited full-resolution photo storage as part of an Amazon Prime membership.

SmugMug is the most expensive entry-level option, starting at US$20/month for unlimited photo and video storage alongside photography-specific features such as client galleries, portfolio websites, and print sales.

If you're asking is Internxt safe for your cloud storage, it's natural to ask whether it's safe enough to trust with your personal or business data.

Security is one of Internxt's biggest selling points, and privacy for everyone is Internxt’s mission.

With features like post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption, independent security audits, and GDPR and other compliance certifications, Internxt is designed to keep your files private and accessible to nobody but you.

In this article, we'll explain:

• Internxt security for your accounts and data
• Is internxt legit?
• Is Internxt safe to use
• Internxt encryption

If you have more questions about Internxt encryption, security, or features, you can also reach out to our support team at hello@internxt.com

Table of contents

• How Internxt protects your account
• How Internxt protects your files
• How Internxt protects your data
• Is Internxt legit?
• Is Internxt safe to use?
• Why choose Internxt?
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

How Internxt protects your account

Internxt protects your data and account from hackers in various ways to ensure your files remain secure and accessible only to you.

Internxt security for your accounts focuses on the following methods:

1. Secure password: Internxt offers a free strong password generator and password checker to set up your account with a password that is protected from brute force or dictionary attacks that could breach your account.
2. Two-Factor authentication: Once you create your account, you can add additional security by connecting Internxt to your preferred 2FA app.
3. Backup recovery key: Internxt’s zero-knowledge encryption means we cannot reset your password or decrypt your files because only you have the keys needed to access them, so you must download your Internxt backup key to avoid losing your files if you forget your password.
4. Password hashing: A password salt is a random piece of data that is added to your password before it is hashed. This makes every password hash unique, even if two users choose the same password.

How Internxt protects your files

Internxt Drive has the following features to protect your files in the cloud.

Backups

All Internxt paid plans include cloud storage backups to protect from ransomware or if your original files are lost, deleted, or corrupted. In this case, you can recover your data from your backups via the Internxt desktop apps, available for Windows, Mac, Linux, Rclone, WebDAV, or NAS devices.

To ensure your backups are up to date, you can schedule your files to be backed up every hour and up to every 24 hours.

Antivirus

Internxt Antivirus is included with all Internxt plans and protects your files by detecting, blocking, and removing malicious software before it can infect your device.

The best antivirus software prevents malware from stealing, encrypting, corrupting, or deleting your files, helping keep your data safe from common cyber threats.

File versioning

Internxt Premium and Ultimate plans offer additional protection and security for your files to ensure you always have access to the copy of the file you want in case accidental changes are made.

If you accidentally edit, overwrite, delete, or corrupt a file, Internxt lets you restore an earlier version instead of losing your work.

Secure file sharing

Internxt Drive allows you to share large files privately and protected with zero-knowledge encryption, so your files are encrypted and secure before they leave your device. You can also add a password to protect shared files, and monitor and revoke access to files once they are shared.

You can send files via a secure link or email, allowing you to share large videos or other files easily via email or messaging apps.

Internxt also offers Internxt Send, a free file sharing service with the same zero-knowledge encryption for files up to 5GB.

Internxt encryption

Internxt released post-quantum encryption for its cloud storage in 2025, making it the first cloud storage with Kyber-512 and AES-256 encryption.

The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) mandates that all traditional encryption systems (like RSA and ECC) be completely phased out and replaced with Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) algorithms by 2035.

By storing your files with Internxt Drive, you get post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption for all plans. All files stored or shared with Internxt are encrypted on your device so only you can access your files.

Even if requested by law enforcement or other agencies, neither Internxt nor anyone else can access your files, as encryption keys are managed on your device.

Internxt’s advanced encryption therefore makes it the best encrypted cloud storage for all your files.

File sharding

Once Internxt encrypts your data, the file is divided into smaller pieces and distributed across multiple servers or storage nodes.

As no single server stores a complete copy of your encrypted file, it makes it significantly harder and close to impossible for an attacker to access or reconstruct your data, as they can only access a small piece of an encrypted file.

Data redundancy

Internxt’s cloud data centers are based in Europe, and multiple encrypted copies of these files are stored in different data centers for additional data redundancy and security.

This means if anything happens to one data center, such as a fire or power failure, your files are still accessible and available in the cloud.

How Internxt protects your data

European privacy laws

Internxt is based in Spain and therefore complies with GDPR, which is known as one of the best privacy laws to protect your personal information in the following ways:

• Gives users control over their data by allowing them to access, correct, delete, and transfer their personal information.
• Requires clear consent before collecting or processing personal data.
• Limits data collection so organizations only gather information that is necessary for a specific purpose.
• Requires organizations to protect personal data with appropriate security measures, such as encryption and access controls.
• Mandates data breach notifications so affected users and regulators are informed if personal data is compromised.
• Holds organizations accountable through strict compliance requirements and significant fines for GDPR violations.

Compliance

Aside from offering GDPR compliant cloud storage, Internxt offers multiple compliance certifications for businesses, healthcare, and enterprises because it meets the following compliance standards:

• ISO 27001: Covers information security management, helping organizations protect data through risk management, security policies, access controls, and continuous monitoring.
• SOC 2: Covers how service providers protect customer data by evaluating security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy controls.
• HIPAA: Covers the protection of sensitive health information by requiring safeguards for the privacy, security, and confidentiality of medical data.

So whether you need personal or enterprise cloud storage, Internxt offers a broad range of data protection for all industries and data.

Transparency and Internxt security audits

Internxt’s mission is based on transparency, security, and a private internet for everyone.

For total transparency, Internxt is open source and available for any security experts to review the platform’s security, ensuring there are no backdoors to your data and no security vulnerabilities.

For extra peace of mind, Internxt has also passed two successful security audits by Securitum, which tested, reviewed, and passed Internxt’s platform as a secure and private cloud storage for your files.

Is Internxt legit?

Yes.

Internxt’s security architecture, privacy-first approach, and transparent audit reports make it a credible option if you value data privacy.

Internxt was founded in 2020, and since then, it has grown its user base and become a profitable, high-value company in the cloud storage market.

Due to its rapid growth, Internxt has achieved numerous awards, including being recognized as one of the top 50 fastest-growing companies by Deloitte.

Internxt is also the official cloud provider of Levante UD, offering the football club secure cloud storage and backups, and solidifying Internxt’s position as one of the best European cloud providers available.

Internxt also provides cloud storage for:

• Prosegur: for enterprise backups and secure data retention
• Europa Press: for media storage and archive distribution
• SPAR: for distributed business and infrastructure backups

By serving well-known organizations with secure cloud storage, it highlights Internxt’s reliability, security, and ability to meet enterprise standards.

You can read more about what companies and people are saying about Internxt from the website below.

Is Internxt safe to use?

Yes.

Internxt is safe to use and a trusted, reliable cloud storage solution for your files. As one of the few cloud providers to offer zero-knowledge encryption for all plans, you can store and share all your personal files with Internxt.

All of Internxt’s products follow strict security standards and data protection laws to provide you with the safety you need to protect your files and personal information.

As with any online service, to ensure maximum security, you should follow the necessary steps to secure your accounts:

• Protect your account with a secure password
• Download your Internxt backup key
• Enable two-factor authentication
• Regularly back up your files

Why choose Internxt?

Internxt is a private and European alternative to big tech companies, and is designed with your privacy and security in mind.

It was founded to provide users with an alternative cloud storage to Google Drive, as Google can access your files and contents as it manages the encryption keys.

As big tech profits from your data, Internxt gives you back control of your data and provides a wide range of products to ensure your devices, files, and personal information remain private and secure.

By switching to Internxt, you get access to these features for monthly or lifetime plans, from Antivirus to native rclone support.

Make the switch to Internxt, and get 85% off all plans from our website.

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Frequently asked questions

How does Internxt encrypt my files?

Internxt encrypts your files on your device before they are uploaded using end-to-end, zero-knowledge Kyber-512 and AES-256 encryption, ensuring only you have access to the encryption keys.

Each file is assigned a unique encryption key, split into encrypted segments, and uploaded securely to the cloud. When you access your files, the encrypted segments are downloaded, reassembled, and decrypted locally on your device, so your data remains encrypted throughout the entire process.

Where is Internxt based?

Internxt is based and operates in Valencia, Spain, and is GDPR compliant and follows strict European privacy laws to protect its users' personal information and content in the cloud.

What jurisdiction is Internxt under?

Internxt is subject to Spanish and European Union (EU) jurisdiction.

Headquartered in Valencia, Spain, Internxt operates under Spanish law and must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Spain is considered a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, with strong data protection laws and independent judicial oversight, making it a more privacy-focused alternative to providers based in countries subject to broader government surveillance laws.

Has Internxt been independently audited?

Yes, Internxt has been independently audited twice by Securitum, who has also audited companies like Proton Drive, DuckDuckGo, the National Bank of Poland, SimpleLogin, and many others.

Internxt’s code is fully open source and available for any security experts to verify the platform’s security.

Can Internxt see my files?

No.

Internxt can never see or access your files because it uses zero-knowledge encryption.

Your files are encrypted on your device before they're uploaded, and only you hold the encryption keys needed to decrypt them. This means Internxt cannot access, read, or view the contents of your stored files.

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Europe is home to some of the world's most privacy-focused cloud storage providers, offering secure alternatives to services operated by large US technology companies.

Whether you're looking to protect personal files, store sensitive business documents, or keep your data under European jurisdiction, choosing the right provider can make a significant difference to your online privacy and the security of your personal information.

While US providers often excel in ecosystem integration and collaboration tools, European services are increasingly closing the gap and placing greater emphasis on data protection.

In this guide, we'll compare the best European cloud storage providers, evaluating their privacy features, security, pricing, and overall value to help you find the right service for your needs.

If you’re looking for cloud storage in Europe or other alternatives to US tech companies, check out our comprehensive list of European tech companies in our article below.

Table of contents

• Why choose European cloud storage providers?
• European cloud storage providers vs global providers
• The 8 best European cloud storage providers
• Which of the European cloud storage providers is right for you?
• Tips when switching to a European cloud storage provider
• What is the best European cloud provider?
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

Why choose European cloud storage providers?

Stronger data privacy protection

GDPR compliant cloud storage gives you more control over how companies collect, process, store, and share personal information, so when you have an account with a European tech company, or any other business based in Europe, your data has the following protection:

• Clear consent requirements: Companies must obtain valid consent before collecting or processing your personal data in many situations, and consent must be freely given, specific, informed, and easy to withdraw.
• Right to access: You can request a copy of the personal data a company holds about you and understand how it is being used.
• Right to delete data ("Right to be Forgotten"): You can contact the company to request that your personal data be erased when it is no longer needed, you withdraw consent, or there is no lawful reason to keep it.
• Transparency: Companies must clearly explain what personal data they collect, why they collect it, how long they keep it, and who they share it with.
• Data minimization: Companies should collect only the personal data that is necessary for the intended purpose, rather than gathering excessive information.
• Security requirements: Organizations must implement appropriate technical and organizational measures, such as encryption and access controls, to protect personal data from unauthorized access, loss, or breaches.
• Breach notification: If a data breach poses a risk to individuals, companies are generally required to notify the relevant supervisory authority within 72 hours and, in some cases, inform affected users.

Data sovereignty

Many European organizations want their data to remain within Europe for regulatory, contractual, or policy reasons.

A European provider may offer:

• Storage exclusively in EU countries and cloud data centers.
• Guarantees that customer data won't be transferred outside the European Economic Area without authorization.
• Compliance with industry-specific European regulations.

This is especially important for governments, healthcare, finance, education, and legal sectors, as they must comply with regulations to store and manage sensitive information such as financial transactions or confidential legal documents that need to remain in specific jurisdictions.

Reduced exposure to your files

Choosing a European alternative to Google Drive, OneDrive, or other mainstream cloud storage providers means your files are protected with stronger encryption, like zero-knowledge policies, which means nobody but you can access your files.

As Google, Dropbox, and others maintain control over the encryption keys, these companies or government agencies can technically access or scan your files in line with their own policies.

Alignment with European regulations

Cloud storage in Europe is built on services around EU standards and certifications, making compliance easier for businesses operating in Europe.

Examples include:

• GDPR
• ISO 27001
• EU Cloud Code of Conduct
• Sector-specific compliance requirements

Less reliance on Big Tech

Many mainstream cloud storage services are part of extensive technology ecosystems that combine file storage with communication, productivity, and AI tools such as Gemini or Copilot.

By choosing cloud storage in Europe, you can reduce your dependence on these all-in-one platforms and adopt a storage solution that prioritizes privacy, data sovereignty, and regulatory compliance.

European cloud storage providers vs global providers

The 8 best European cloud storage providers

Internxt

Based: Valencia, Spain

Internxt Drive offers private cloud storage protected with post-quantum encryption and secure file sharing.

Key features:

• AES-256 and Kyber-512 end-to-end encryption
• Open-source and independently audited
• GDPR, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and SOC 2 compliance
• Paid plans include access to a full online privacy suite
• Also offers S3 cloud object storage

Best for: Individuals, businesses, and professionals who want end-to-end encrypted cloud storage, strong regulatory compliance, and an all-in-one privacy solution.

Proton Drive

Based: Geneva, Switzerland

• End-to-end encrypted
• Open source and audited
• Aligns with GDPR
• Includes editors for documents and spreadsheets
• Part of Proton’s secure suite of products

Best for: Individuals and businesses looking for end-to-end encrypted cloud storage that integrates seamlessly with secure email, VPN, password management, and productivity.

Tresorit

Based: Zurich, Switzerland

• End-to-end encrypted
• Share files securely with links, passwords, and revoke access
• GDPR, HIPAA, NIS2 compliance
• Option to choose your data residency

Best for: Businesses and professionals that need highly secure file storage, sharing, and collaboration.

Icedrive

Based: Legally based in Gibraltar, operates from Wales

• Twofish encryption and zero-knowledge encryption (paid plans)
• Offers monthly, annual, and lifetime plans
• Secure file sharing

Best for: Simple, easy-to-use cloud storage as additional protection for your files with a paid plan.

Internxt vs Icedrive

pCloud

Based: Legally based in Baar, Switzerland; operates from Sofia, Bulgaria

• TLS encryption for data transfers and AES-256 encryption
• Zero-knowledge protection available as paid add-on
• Media streaming for music and videos
• Family plans available

Best for: Families that want to share storage, or to stream your music and video libraries.

Jottacloud

Based: Oslo, Norway

• AES-256 encryption at rest and TLS encryption in transit
• Offers unlimited storage plans
• Recover lost files with version history
• Data centers located in Norway

Best for: Individuals and families who want secure cloud backup, file syncing, or a sustainable cloud storage solution.

Filen

Based: Recklinghausen, Germany

• End-to-end, zero-knowledge encryption
• Open source
• Encrypted notes feature
• End-to-end encrypted chats feature

Best for: Privacy-conscious users who want zero-knowledge encrypted cloud storage with secure messaging and note-taking.

Koofr

Based: Ljubljana, Slovenia

• AES-256 encryption at rest
• TLS encryption in transit
• Optional zero-knowledge encryption with Koofr Vault
• Integrates with Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox

Best for: Individuals looking for a European alternative to Google Drive where you can integrate your files to cloud storage in Europe.

Which of the European cloud storage providers is right for you?

The best European cloud provider depends on what you need most.

Some services are built around maximum privacy, others focus on secure file sharing, while some are better suited for businesses or generous free cloud storage. Use the recommendations below to quickly find the provider that best matches your priorities.

• Best for maximum privacy: Internxt Drive or Proton Drive offer zero-knowledge encryption, and additional products for your privacy, including VPN, Mail and Meet.
• Best for secure file sharing: Internxt Drive to share large files online, or Internxt Send for free file sharing. For advanced file sharing features, Tresorit.
• Best for businesses: Proton Drive for private cloud storage for businesses, or Internxt S3 for cloud object storage.
• Best for free storage: Filen for 10GB of zero-knowledge encrypted cloud storage or Icedrive for 10GB without zero-knowledge encryption.

Tips when switching to a European cloud storage provider

Below are some tips when you’re migrating files from Google Drive or your current cloud provider. This advice also applies if you’re starting with a fresh account also.

Transfer private files

Start with your private, most confidential files first. This way, you get the benefits of private encryption straight away, to ensure only you can access your files.

Keep backups of your folders

Keep multiple copies of your files stored in different European cloud providers for additional redundancy for important files. For best cloud backup protection, follow the 3-2-1 rule:

• Keep three copies of your data
• Store them on two different types of media
• Keep one copy off-site, such as in encrypted cloud storage

This protects your files against hardware failure, accidental deletion, ransomware, and other data loss.

Try the free account

Test the service for upload speeds, performance, features, and syncing. This gives you the best insight into how the service works and how it handles storing your files before paying for a subscription.

Remove duplicate files

Before you migrate your files to any European cloud storage providers, check your current storage and free up space in the cloud to optimize your new cloud storage plan. Delete duplicate or unwanted files and then migrate from your current to the new cloud storage provider.

Sync your files

Install the desktop and mobile apps, and test how the service syncs across devices. This allows you to access and manage your cloud from anywhere and access your files offline.

If you created an Internxt account or purchased an Internxt plan, follow the steps in our article below on how to migrate your files.

What is the best European cloud provider?

Internxt Drive is the best cloud storage in Europe that meets GDPR, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and SOC 2 compliance, offering full data protection thanks to European and other compliance laws to ensure all data is secure.

Internxt is the best European alternative to Google Drive, OneDrive, and other big tech providers, as all files and folders are protected with Internxt’s award-winning post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption.

When you store or share files with Internxt, everything is encrypted before leaving your device, so neither Internxt nor anybody else can access its contents without your permission.

Unlike the other European cloud providers on this list, Internxt is the only service that combines cloud storage with device protection and other privacy products to keep you safe online.

From antivirus to NAS support, Internxt’s comprehensive product suite offers everything you need to manage your cloud storage and privacy online.

Prices start from €1.99/month for 1TB of storage, or you can choose a lifetime cloud storage plan, available for up to 5TB, with the option to add more storage whenever you need.

You can check the full details of Internxt’s plans below, and claim 85% off any plan from our website.

Related products

Frequently asked questions

What is a European cloud storage provider?

European cloud storage providers are companies based in Europe that store, manage, and protect your files on remote servers.

These providers typically operate under European privacy laws, such as the GDPR, and often offer data storage within Europe to help users meet privacy, security, and data sovereignty requirements.

Are European cloud storage providers better for privacy?

Yes. European cloud storage providers are generally considered better for privacy because they operate under the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), one of the world's strictest privacy laws.

That said, privacy ultimately depends on the individual provider. Not all European cloud services offer end-to-end encryption. If maximum privacy is your priority, choose a provider that combines European jurisdiction with end-to-end encryption like Internxt Drive.

Can cloud storage providers access your files?

Yes, cloud storage providers can often access your files if they are encrypted only at rest or in transit, since the provider manages the encryption keys; companies like OneDrive, Google, Dropbox, or any others that don’t provide zero-knowledge encryption can access your files.

This allows them to process files for features such as previews, search, sharing, or to comply with legal requests.

What is the best European alternative to Google Drive?

Internxt Drive is the best secure cloud storage to store files in privacy due to its post-quantum encryption and zero-knowledge policies.

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It is open-source and audited, and includes additional features in its cloud storage plans, such as NAS support, Mail, VPN, and more.

Google One offers 15GB of free storage, but what is Google One?

Google One is a paid subscription to Google’s additional storage and Gemini AI features, offering monthly and annual plans in case you run out of cloud storage or need more storage or features with your Google account.

We will go into detail about all of the Google One plans, costs, features, when to choose Google, or when to choose a private alternative.

Table of contents

• Difference between Google One and Google Drive
• Is Google One free?
• How to increase your Google Drive space
• How much do Google One plans cost in 2026?
• Features included in Google One plans
• How much do Google One plans cost for business?
• Which Google One plan should you pick?
• When to choose a Google Drive alternative
• What’s a private alternative to Google?
• Internxt vs Google Drive cost
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

Difference between Google One and Google Drive

Google Drive is the cloud storage service that comes with 15 GB of free cloud storage when you sign up for an account.

Google One is the paid plan that upgrades your storage and adds extra perks.

Google Drive is where you store and access your files, such as documents, photos, videos, and backups.

Google One is the paid service that gives you access to other features, such as more advanced Gemini AI features.

To learn more about the differences, we cover this in more detail in our Google One vs Google Drive article.

Is Google One free?

No. Google One is a paid subscription service that offers more storage and access to Google features such as Gemini AI.

However, every Google account includes 15 GB of free storage shared across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.

You only need Google One if you want more storage or its additional benefits.

How to increase your Google Drive space

If you want more Google Drive storage, you will have to purchase a Google One subscription, but by following the tips and tricks below, you can use them to get the most out of Google’s free 15 GB storage plan.

Compress large files

One easy trick you can use to save space and get more out of your Google Drive space is compressing files.

There are many tools available, such as Internxt’s free file compressor, which compresses many file formats, from MOV files to Excel file compression.

On Windows, you can compress files by:

1. Select your folder, then right-click > Compress to > Additional options.
2. In the new window, set Archive format to ZIP and slide the Compression Level to Smaller (9). Make sure to check the Retain symbolic links box.
3. Now, click Create, and you are all set.

You can also use tools like 7-Zip, which is a free tool to compress larger files to help you save space for videos or large photo albums, and then compress ZIP files with Internxt to take up even less storage.

Manage your photos

To manage the space with Google Photos and free up storage, follow these steps:

1. Open Google Photos.
2. Review your photos and videos, and delete any you no longer need.
3. Empty the Bin to permanently remove deleted items and free up storage.
4. Go to Settings > Backup quality and select Storage Saver to reduce the storage used by future uploads.

Delete hidden data

Some third-party apps that we connect to our Google Drive, such as WhatsApp, can take up your storage without you knowing due to hidden app data or automatic backups.

To delete this unnecessary data, follow these steps:

1. Open Google Drive and go to Settings.
2. Select Manage Apps to see which apps are using storage in your Drive.
3. Review the apps and identify any unnecessary or outdated data.
4. Delete old backups, data from apps you no longer use, or backups and app data you no longer need to free up storage.

If after following these steps you still need more storage, you may want to consider upgrading to a Google One plan, the prices and details of which are below.

Or you may want to consider choosing a private alternative to Google Drive, with a cheaper cloud storage cost and end-to-end encryption, such as Internxt.

How much do Google One plans cost in 2026?

With a Google One subscription, all your storage is shared across Drive, Photos, and Gmail, so depending on how heavily you use these services, you may need to upgrade your Google Drive free account to a 100GB or 2TB plan.

You can also share storage with up to five others, so this should also be taken into account when checking the Google One cost.

Google One plans (Monthly)

Google One offers monthly plans; when you sign up, you get a discount for the first three months; afterwards, you pay the full price, both of which are shown below.

Google One plans (Annual)

With annual plans, you can save up to 37% depending on which plan you pick. The discount applies for the first year; afterwards, you pay the full price. The discounted year and full price are shown below for all Google One plans.

Features included in Google One plans

The Google One basic plan only covers cloud storage, so you get 100GB of storage shared between Drive, Photos, and Gmail.

Both AI Plus plans include:

• 2x higher usage limits and access to the Gemini 3 Flash thinking model
• Google Flow: Google’s AI filmmaking tool
• Gemini in Gmail
• NotebookLM to conduct research

For more advanced AI features, the Google AI Pro plan includes:

• 4x higher usage limits and access to the Gemini 3 Pro model, deep research, and more
• Google Flow: Google’s AI filmmaking tool with expanded access
• Gemini in Gmail, Docs, Vids and more
• NotebookLM to conduct research
• Google Health Premium

How much do Google One plans cost for business?

Finally, Google One also offers business plans, offering a professional email and premium business versions of tools you already know, like Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Docs, and more, with AI in every plan, with storage plans going up to 5TB.

Starter

• €7/user/month
• 30 GB of pooled storage
• Custom emails
• Generate AI videos
• Up to 300 users
• Integrated Gemini features

Standard Includes all of Starter, plus:

• €14/user/month
• 2 TB of pooled storage
• Custom emails
• Generate AI videos
• Up to 300 users
• Integrated Gemini features
• E-signature with Docs and PDFs
• Data migration tools

Plus includes all of Standard, plus:

• €22/user/month
• 5 TB of pooled storage
• Custom emails
• Generate AI videos
• Up to 300 users
• Integrated Gemini features
• Advanced endpoint management
• Enhanced security and management controls

Enterprise includes all mentioned features, plus:

• Contact sales for pricing
• 5 TB of pooled storage
• Data loss protection
• Enhanced customer support
• Enterprise data regions
• No minimum or maximum user limits

Which Google One plan should you pick?

Based on the Google One cost and storage offered for each plan, you should choose the following plans to meet your needs:

Choose Basic (100 GB) if you only need extra cloud storage for Google Drive, Photos, and Gmail and without needing the additional features of Gemini.

Choose Google AI Plus (400 GB) if you want AI tools such as Gemini in Gmail, Google Flow, and NotebookLM, and need to store documents or photo albums without needing large amounts of storage.

Choose Google AI Plus (2 TB) if you need significantly more storage for videos while keeping the same AI features as the 400 GB plan.

Choose Google AI Pro (5 TB) if you need the most storage and Google's most advanced AI features, including Gemini 3 Pro, higher usage limits, expanded Google Flow access, Google Health Premium, and Gemini across more Google apps.

Choose a Google One Business plan if you need professional email, shared storage for a team, business productivity tools, and administrative features. Business plans support up to 300 users, while Enterprise is designed for larger organisations that require advanced security, data protection, and dedicated support.

If you’re an Apple user looking for cloud storage, then you can check out our iCloud vs Google One and iCloud pricing articles.

When to choose a Google Drive alternative

For private files

If you need to store sensitive information such as work documents, NDA’s, or other confidential and private files, you should choose a different cloud provider than Google.

A Google Drive encrypted folder is encrypted by Google, but the decryption keys are stored on servers Google owns, so your data and the contents of sensitive and personal files can be accessed by Google at any time and can lead to them deleting your account without notice.

For end-to-end encryption

Cloud providers with end-to-end encryption, such as Internxt Drive encrypted cloud storage, offer a private solution to ensure nobody but you can access your files.

Instead of the company managing the encryption keys, Internxt encrypts files directly on your device, and you manage the keys, meaning nobody but you can access your files.

This can be verified thanks to Internxt’s open source model, meaning security experts can verify the privacy and security of Internxt Drive.

More online privacy

Not only is Google Drive’s lack of E2E encryption concerning, but when you sign up for a free Google Drive account, you are giving them more than access to your personal files.

Google collects your data from Google Drive but also Gmail, Google Photos, Search, Maps, Chrome, Android, and YouTube, to personalise your experience, improve its products, and show relevant ads.

We cover this in more detail in our Google activity article below:

We also cover other services to switch from Google to help you deGoogle your life, which you can check in this article:

Avoid subscription costs

If you want to avoid subscriptions and prices that can increase over time, there are lifetime cloud storage options available with a one-time payment, giving you access to cloud storage for a lifetime.

For a full list of lifetime providers, we cover these in our blog, which you can check below.

What’s a private alternative to Google?

Internxt Drive

Internxt Drive is a European, open-source, and private cloud storage solution offering an alternative to Google Drive and other US Big Tech companies like OneDrive or Dropbox.

Unlike these companies, Internxt protects your cloud storage with AES-256 and Kyber-521 post-quantum zero-knowledge encryption, protecting your data against the future threats of quantum computers and giving you total control over your data, storage, and shared files.  

You can get started with Internxt for free, with no credit card details required. For maximum privacy online, you can choose from Internxt’s monthly plans, which start at €1.99 for the first month, or choose from any of our lifetime plans, which you can stack to get up to 100TB of cloud storage.

Paid plans include additional features to take control of your privacy online, including Antivirus, VPN, Meet, and NAS support.

For full details, check out our website or pricing plans below.

To get started with a paid Internxt plan, get your exclusive 85% special offer from our website below.

Internxt vs Google Drive cost

Below is a monthly comparison of Internxt vs Google One monthly subscription costs.

When choosing an Internxt Ultimate plan, you get 5TB of cloud storage with a one-time payment, plus access to all of Internxt’s features.

Compared to Google’s 5TB annual plan, the following table shows how much you can save over time when investing in a lifetime plan.

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Internxt Meet - Private Video Call | Secure Video Conferencing

Experience secure video conferencing with end-to-end encryption. Start a private video call today and ensure your conversations remain confidential with our encrypted video call technology.

Secure Video Conferencing

Internxt AI — Privacy-first AI assistant that keeps your chats confidential

Internxt’s AI assistant keeps your chats private and your data safe with zero-access encryption. Ask anything in total confidence.

The Best Secure Alternative to Google Drive

Need a truly secure alternative to Drive? Choose Internxt. We offer end-to-end encrypted storage that prioritizes your privacy above all other Google Drive alternatives.

Frequently asked questions

How much is Google One per month?

Google One plans start at €1.99/month for 100 GB of storage. Higher-tier plans cost €4.99/month for 400 GB, €9.99/month for 2 TB, and €21.99/month for 5 TB. New subscribers receive a discounted price for the first three months.

Google One vs Google Drive - what's the difference?

Google Drive is Google’s cloud storage service. Google One is the subscription plan you pay for additional storage and features.

Is Google One worth it?

A Google One free plan offers a generous amount of storage, but it comes in exchange for your privacy, as you pay with your personal data. If you want to store general files that don’t need the additional privacy of E2E encryption from services like Internxt, Google Drive may be worth it.

What's the cheapest Google One plan?

The cheapest Google One plan is the 100 GB monthly plan, which is €0.49 for the first three months, and €1.99 per month after the third month.

pCloud offers monthly, annual, and lifetime plans which include cloud storage, syncing, backups, and media streaming.

pCloud plans start from €4.99/month and €199.99 for lifetime plans for 500GB of cloud storage. However, some additional features and products are not included with a pCloud plan, so these extra costs should be factored in if you’re interested in choosing this service.

To make things clear, this article will cover:

• pCloud plans, features, and pricing
• pCloud lifetime price
• Security
• Cheaper alternatives

By the end of this article, you will have all the options to choose a free, paid, or lifetime storage plan, either with pCloud or more secure and private alternatives.

Table of contents

• Does pCloud offer a free plan?
• pCloud pricing explained
• What features do pCloud plans include?
• What pCloud plans DO NOT include
• What is the pCloud lifetime price for all features?
• Is pCloud secure?
• pCloud vs Internxt - which is better value?
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

Does pCloud offer a free plan?

A free pCloud plan starts at 2GB; this is the storage you get when you create a pCloud account. If you want more storage, you have to complete the following onboarding tasks:

• Verify your email address: + 1GB
• Upload a file: + 1GB
• Download the pCloud desktop app: + 1GB
• Download the mobile app: +1GB
• Enable automatic uploads from mobile: + 1GB

Total storage = 7GB

From there, you can refer your friends to get an extra free gigabyte of space, taking your free plan to 10GB.

Another thing worth noting is that pCloud automatically adds a getting started document and demo audio files to your account, which you have to delete if you want the full 2GB, which is quite annoying.

So a free pCloud plan is for 2GB, if you want more free cloud storage without spending your time doing the manual tasks, check out our list of free cloud storage options below.

pCloud pricing explained

The following are pCloud’s cloud storage plans, whereas other features and products are available as a separate service or paid add-on, which we will cover later in the article.

For now, these are the pCloud pricing plans for its monthly, annual, and lifetime cloud storage plans.

Monthly

Premium 500 GB

• €4.99/month
• 500 GB shared link traffic

Premium Plus  2 TB

• €9.99/month
• 2 TB shared link traffic

Ultra 10 TB

• €29.99/month
• 2 TB shared link traffic

Annual

Or you can choose an annual pCloud plan and save around 16% compared to paying monthly.

Premium 500 GB

• €49.99/month
• 500 GB shared link traffic

Premium Plus  2 TB

• €99.99/year
• 2 TB shared link traffic

Ultra 10 TB

• €299.99/year
• 2 TB shared link traffic

Lifetime

If you want to avoid subscriptions altogether, pCloud offers one-time payment cloud storage plans at the following prices:

Premium 500 GB

• €199.99
• 500 GB shared link traffic

Premium Plus 2 TB

• €399.99/year
• 2 TB shared link traffic

Ultra 10 TB

• €1190.99/year
• 2 TB shared link traffic

Lifetime plans can also be stacked, so if you start with a 500 GB plan and want to add 2 TB in the future, you will get 2.5 TB total.

What features do pCloud plans include?

Below are the features you get when you purchase a lifetime plan with pCloud.

• File management: Restore previous versions of your file from up to 30 days
• File sharing: Share files with password-protected links and branded links
• Streaming: Stream music or videos from pCloud’s media player
• Backups: Back up your files in the desktop app, or automatically from your phone

What pCloud plans DO NOT include

Zero-knowledge encryption

All paid plans bought from pCloud use the standard encryption used by Google Drive, Dropbox, and others, so files are not encrypted on your device and can be accessed or deleted by pCloud or other external parties.

If you want cloud storage with zero-knowledge encryption with pCloud, it will cost extra on top of your subscription or lifetime plan.

For pCloud Crypto, it will cost:

• Monthly: €4.99/month + cost of your storage plan
• Annual: €49.99/year + cost of your storage plan
• Lifetime: €150 one-time payment

If you purchase pCloud Crypto, then a separate folder is created in your pCloud account. From there, you drop or upload your files into this folder, and they become client-side encrypted.

As a result, your files are split between two storage areas:

1. Files stored outside the Crypto folder use standard server-side encryption
2. Files manually placed in the Crypto folder receive zero-knowledge encryption.

If you accidentally upload sensitive files to the regular storage area, they will not have the same level of privacy protection.

If you don’t want to pay extra for this level of protection on top of your subscription or lifetime investment, there are alternatives to pCloud available that offer zero-knowledge encryption for its free and paid cloud, which we discuss in our article below.

If you’re specifically looking for lifetime plans with zero-knowledge encryption, then Internxt is the best private cloud storage and pCloud alternative that offers post-quantum and end-to-end encryption for its free and paid plans.

There’s no need to purchase any add-ons or create separate folders; all folders uploaded to Internxt Drive are encrypted on your device, and nobody except you can read their contents.

pCloud Pass

pCloud Pass is another separate service from pCloud you can add to your subscription. A free option is available, which offers the password manager for 1 device, or the following plans are available, again, with monthly, annual, or lifetime options available.

pCloud Pass Premium

• Monthly: €2.99/month
• Annual: €29.99/year
• Lifetime: €149 one-time payment

Features of pCloud Pass Premium:

• Unlimited active devices
• Unlimited secured sharing
• Unlimited contact list
• Secure password generator
• All other features included

pCloud Pass Family

• Monthly: €4.99/month
• Annual: €49.99/year
• Lifetime: €253 one-time payment

Features of pCloud Pass Family:

• Up to 5 members
• Unlimited active devices
• Unlimited active devices
• Unlimited contact list
• Secure password generator

You can purchase this password manager on its own as a subscription or lifetime account, or combine it with a pCloud lifetime plan and pCloud crypto. The costs of all of these combined are covered below so you get a real idea of the pCloud lifetime price when all features are included.

What is the pCloud lifetime price for all features?

Now that we have covered all pCloud plans for its cloud storage, these are the additional products or features you can add on top of a lifetime plan.

One-time add-ons:

• pCloud Crypto Lifetime: €150
• pCloud Pass Premium Lifetime: €149
• pCloud Pass Family Lifetime: €253

With that in mind, below are the pCloud lifetime prices when combined with these additional features.

Based on those prices, a pCloud plan is, on average, about €251 more expensive than the base lifetime storage plan once you factor in the additional lifetime services (Crypto, Pass Premium, Pass Family, or combinations of them).

Is pCloud secure?

pCloud has had several issues in the past, which makes people wonder is pCloud safe to use. Below you can find the main problems and issues users have experienced when using pCloud.

Account termination

Due to the lack of zero-knowledge encryption for all paid plans without pCloud Crypto, the risk of your files being accessed and deleted by pCloud is already high.

In fact, when searching across Reddit, the following topics come up for pCloud:

• Accounts being suspended or terminated with little or no explanation.
• Support citing violations of the Terms of Service without specifying which files triggered the action.
• Losing access to both their data and their lifetime purchase.

While some of these files may have been deleted due to violating pCloud’s conditions, it is still concerning that your files or account could be deleted if you don’t meet their terms.

Synchronization privacy

Earlier in 2026, another incident was reported on Reddit with numerous users reporting seeing data from other users in their accounts, including:

• Folders belonging to other users,
• Filenames,
• Metadata,
• In some cases, files they claimed were not theirs.

pCloud support privately described the issue as a "rare synchronization anomaly" and said it was under investigation, but it is still unclear what happened.

Lack of transparency

Since pCloud isn't open source, its apps and encryption cannot be independently verified by the public.

Users therefore have to rely primarily on the company's own claims, reputation, and security certifications (ISO/IEC 27001 and ISO 9001)  rather than being able to inspect or independently verify the software themselves.

pCloud also claims Swiss privacy laws, but its day-to-day operations are ran in Bulgaria, and its data centers are in Luxembourg and the United States, so those data protection laws apply.

With this in mind, and past security incidents, you may want to consider an alternative to pCloud, with zero-knowledge encryption included in all plans, plus a wider range of products and tools to protect you online.

pCloud vs Internxt - which is better value?

Internxt offers post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption included for free and paid plans, with additional features such as VPN, Antivirus, Meet, and Mail, making it a more well-rounded and private pCloud alternative.

The full list of features with Internxt plans is available below.

All files are encrypted on your device, so you never have to worry about unauthorized access to your files.

For pricing, below is a comparison of pCloud plans vs. Internxt lifetime plans. Since Internxt offers zero-knowledge encryption at no extra cost, the cost comparison includes pCloud Crypto.

Based on this pCloud vs Internxt cost comparison, Internxt offers the best overall value, with more storage for your money than the equivalent pCloud + Crypto plans.

1 TB: Internxt Essential offers better value. For only €30 more than pCloud 500 GB + Crypto, you get twice the storage.

3 TB: Internxt Premium offers better value. For only €30 more than pCloud 2 TB + Crypto, you get 1 TB of extra storage (50% more).

5 TB: Internxt Ultimate offers better value. For €230 more than pCloud 2 TB + Crypto, you get 2.5× more storage.

The only exception is pCloud's 10 TB + Crypto plan, which has the lowest cost per GB. However, you can stack an Internxt lifetime plan to get 10TB of lifetime storage, and you get more features with an Ultimate plan, such as NAS and Rclone support, plus Meet and Mail.

To get started with Internxt Drive and its fully encrypted cloud storage, get your 85% discount on all plans by following the link below.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does pCloud cost?

A pCloud lifetime price starts at 500 GB: €199.99 for 500GB, and up to €1,190.99 for 10TB, without pCloud crypto or pCloud Pass, which require separate payments, increasing the overall cost.

Is pCloud end-to-end encrypted?

No. pCloud is not end-to-end encrypted by default.

All paid pCloud plans use standard server-side encryption, meaning your files are encrypted on pCloud's servers rather than on your device. If you want end-to-end (zero-knowledge) encryption, you must purchase the optional pCloud Crypto add-on and add your files to this separate encrypted folder.

Is pCloud lifetime worth it?

pCloud has been around for ten years, so a lifetime plan may be worth the investment, but there are cheaper, more secure alternatives with zero-knowledge encryption at no extra cost, such as Internxt Drive.

Is pCloud trustworthy?

pCloud is not open source, so you have to trust them with your data as it cannot be verified by security experts. Plus, past issues of deleting lifetime accounts without warning makes users less trusting of pCloud.

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If you want an open-source and audited cloud storage solution, an alternative cloud storage to pCloud that also offers lifetime plans, choose Internxt Drive

How much is pCloud Crypto?

pCloud Crypto is available as a monthly, annual, or lifetime add-on for €4.99/month, €49.99/year, or a €150 one-time payment.

Box is a cloud storage solution for businesses and enterprises, although personal plans are available, they can be quite expensive, starting at €12/ per month for 100GB, and have restrictions on uploads.

In this article, we will cover:

• Box.com pricing
• Personal and business plans
• Privacy
• Features
• Alternatives to Box

By the end of this article, you will understand Box business pricing and for personal use, encryption, privacy, and an alternative cloud storage solution to meet all your needs.

Table of contents

• What is Box cloud storage?
• Does Box offer a free cloud storage plan?
• Box.com pricing plans for individuals
• Box business pricing
• Which Box storage plans should you pick?
• Are there cheaper alternatives to Box?
• Is Box worth it?
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

What is Box cloud storage?

Box Drive is a cloud storage and content management platform designed to help individuals and organizations store, share, and collaborate on files securely.

It combines file storage with tools for document collaboration, workflow automation, and enterprise-level security, making it more than just a place to back up files.

Its main features include:

• Cloud storage
• File sharing
• Real-time collaboration
• Box AI
• Version history
• App integrations like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
• Electronic signatures
• Compliance certifications

Box is primarily aimed at businesses, enterprises, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and organizations that need to manage large volumes of files while meeting strict security and compliance requirements.

Although individuals can use Box, its features are geared toward teams and organizations rather than personal cloud storage, as it offers unlimited cloud storage for businesses, and personal plans only go up to 100GB.

If you only need personal cloud storage for photos, documents, or videos, with an emphasis on privacy, alternatives to Box, like Internxt, may be a better fit.

Does Box offer a free cloud storage plan?

Yes, Box offers a free cloud storage plan of 10GB, which is more than iCloud and OneDrive, but less than Google Drive, which offers 15GB.

With a free 10GB Box plan, it is enough to store

With a free plan, features include:

• Storage Capacity: 10 GB
• Max File Upload: 250 MB per file
• Versioning: 1 active file version stored
• Signatures: 5 Box Sign requests/month
• Access from Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and the web
• Box manages the encryption keys, so no zero-knowledge encryption

When you should use a free Box plan: if you work with documents rather than large media files that do not contain sensitive information. 10GB is suitable for PDFs documents, spreadsheets, or other small files due to the 250 MB file limit.

When you should use Box alternatives: if you’re looking for cloud storage for video editors and regularly upload large files such as 4K videos, HD videos, RAW photos, or large project files.

Box is not zero-knowledge encrypted and manages the encryption keys itself, so you should use a private cloud storage, like Internxt Drive.

Box.com pricing plans for individuals

Box offers monthly and annual plans for individuals, with a chance to save up to 25% if you choose an annual plan.

Individual plans have a maximum storage of 100GB, which is pretty low when you consider other cloud storage plans offer terabytes of storage.

Box is, however, one of the businesses that offer unlimited cloud storage, but this is only for business plans, which we will cover later in this article.

For individual Box storage plans, the prices are as follows:

When you pay for a Box plan, you also get these features included with all plans

Box storage plans are quite limited regarding the amount of storage it offers, and 100GB isn’t enough if you have a large number of files to store in the cloud, especially if your main use case is cloud storage for videos.

The Business Starter plan looks cheaper at €6 per user per month, but you have to buy at least three users, so the minimum cost is actually €18 per month.

This, combined with the upload limits of each plan, may make you consider cheaper cloud storage plans, cloud storage for business, or other alternatives.

Box business pricing

Box business pricing is attractive as it offers unlimited cloud storage, so for businesses with large or growing storage needs, Box may be a viable option.

Box.com pricing for business plans is also charged on a monthly and annual rate, with the same savings of 25% on annual plans applying to this type of Box subscription.

Below are the Box business pricing options for monthly plans:

Business

• €18/user/month
• Unlimited storage
• 5GB file upload
• External collaborators (pay per each)
• Integrated Box AI
• Unlimited e-sign requests
• 1,500+ integrations
• AI integrations
• Built-in security and SOC 1/2/3 compliance support
• 50K API calls per month*

Business Plus

• €30/user/month
• Unlimited storage
• Unlimited external collaborators
• 15GB file upload

Everything in Business Plus:

• Advanced admin controls

Enterprise

• €42/user/month
• Unlimited storage
• 50GB file upload

Everything in Business and Business Plus, with additional features such as:

• 1K AI units per month
• Advanced workflows
• Advanced security
• Content portals with Box Hubs
• Threat detection and other security alerts
• FedRAMP moderate, HIPAA, SOC 1/2/3 compliance
• 100K API calls/month

Enterprise Plus

Finally, Box business pricing also includes Enterprise Plus, but this is only available for annual plans, not monthly, and includes everything in the previous Box plans at a cost of €45/user/month plus:

• Unlimited storage
• 150GB file upload
• 2K AI units per month
• Threat detection rules and alerts
• 24-hour support

Which Box storage plans should you pick?

Box storage plans are clearly designed for businesses that need collaboration, security, compliance, and unlimited storage.

But there are use cases for these plans, so you should:

Pick the Free plan if you're trying Box for basic document storage

However, the 250MB upload limit makes it unsuitable for large media files such as videos, RAW photos, or project files. Since Box manages your encryption keys instead of using zero-knowledge encryption, it's also not the best option for storing highly sensitive or private data.

Pick Personal Pro if you only need a small amount of cloud storage

If you're an individual who wants additional storage without needing business collaboration tools, Personal Pro gives you 100GB of storage and larger file upload limits.

That said, 100GB is relatively small compared to many competitors that offer several terabytes of storage at similar prices, so if you need to scale your storage, you should choose a higher plan.

Pick Business Starter if you're a small team

Business Starter is aimed at small businesses that want secure file sharing and collaboration without paying for advanced enterprise features.

Although the advertised price looks affordable, keep in mind there's a minimum purchase of three users, making the actual starting cost higher than it first appears.

Pick Business if you need unlimited storage

For many organizations, the Business plan offers the best balance of features and price. It includes unlimited cloud storage, integrated Box AI, enterprise security features, thousands of app integrations, and generous upload limits.

Pick Business Plus if your team works with larger files

Business Plus is ideal for creative teams, engineering firms, marketing agencies, and other organizations that regularly upload large files.

Pick Enterprise or Enterprise Plus if your organization has advanced security and compliance requirements

Enterprise plans are designed for large organizations that require advanced security, workflow automation, compliance certifications, and AI-powered content management.

Are there cheaper alternatives to Box?

Yes, there are cheaper than Box storage plans for business and personal use, and if you need more free cloud storage, there are other options available, too, which you can check in our following articles:

Cheap cloud storage

OneDrive pricing

Dropbox pricing

iCloud pricing

In general, if you want a small amount of storage, many cloud providers offer plans from 100GB and up to 5TB.

But if you need more storage at a cheap cost, Internxt plans start from €1.99/ month for 1TB of cloud storage with a VPN and Antivirus included.

Is Box worth it?

While Box is an excellent platform for business collaboration, it isn't the strongest choice for personal cloud storage. Individual plans offer relatively little storage, and Box controls your encryption keys rather than providing zero-knowledge encryption.

If your priority is storing personal files, photos, videos, or backups with stronger privacy protections, you need cloud storage with zero-knowledge encryption.

What is a more private alternative to Box?

Internxt Drive

Internxt Drive is a private cloud storage solution, and unlike Box, Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive, your files are protected with AES-256 and Kyber-512 encryption.

Box manages the encryption keys on its servers, so employees or external agencies can view your private and confidential files.

With Internxt, you don’t have this problem.

Internxt protects your data by encrypting everything on your device, and you hold the keys, so nobody can ever access your files unless you share access with them. Internxt’s security can be verified as it is an open source platform, which has also been independently audited by security experts.

For businesses, Internxt offers GDPR, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and SOC 2 compliance to protect all kinds of data, no matter what kinds of files you need to store in the cloud.

With Internxt, you can also avoid the monthly subscription costs of Box storage plans by purchasing a lifetime plan, giving you access to Internxt’s features with a one-time payment.

Or, you can get started for €1.99/month and choose your plan to get VPN, Antivirus, NAS backup support, and more.

Internxt S3

Internxt also offers S3 object storage for enterprises, allowing you to store petabytes of data at a scalable and fixed cost.

Internxt S3 offers the same military-grade encryption and compliance at a fixed fee of just €7/TB/month, with no data transfer fees for moving data in or out of the cloud.

This pay-as-you-go model can be changed whenever you need, and it isn’t charged by user, making it a more scalable and affordable solution than Box, and even AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

Visit our website to contact a member of our sales team to help you get started with our object storage plans.

Box vs Internxt overview

Below is a comparison of Box vs Internxt, with the major difference being that Internxt can never access your files.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does Box cost?

Paid plans for individuals start at €12.99 per month for 100GB, while business plans start at €18 per user per month and include unlimited storage. Annual plans offer a discount over paying monthly.

Is Box free?

Box offers a 10GB free plan, with limited features and an upload limit of 250MB

Box vs Dropbox pricing?

Box is more expensive for individual plans, with 100GB costing €12.99 per month.

Dropbox offers 2TB starting at €11.99 per month, making it significantly better value for personal storage.

For businesses, Box includes unlimited storage on its paid plans, while Dropbox Business plans have different storage limits depending on the plan.

Is Box good value for privacy-focused users?

Box is secure and a good option for businesses and enterprises needing unlimited cloud storage, but as it is not end-to-end encrypted, it is not suitable for privacy; instead, other options like Internxt Drive offer zero-knowledge encryption for the best privacy for confidential files.

OneDrive pricing starts free with 5 GB and scales through Microsoft 365 bundles: Basic (100 GB) at $1.99/month, Personal (1 TB) at $9.99/month, and Family (6 TB) at $12.99/month, each cheaper if you pay yearly. Business plans run $5 to $12.50 per user per month.

There's no storage-only OneDrive plan, so paid storage is tied to a Microsoft 365 subscription. (Prices as of June 2026.)

Prices aren't the whole story this year, though. Microsoft is scrapping a couple of OneDrive plans and pushing through a price rise in July, so the timing of an annual plan matters more than usual. Everything below is current, with what each plan actually includes.

Table of contents

• How much does OneDrive cost in 2026?
• What's changing with OneDrive pricing in 2026?
• Is OneDrive free, and how much storage does it offer?
• What do the OneDrive personal plans cost?
• What do OneDrive for Business plans cost?
• Which OneDrive plan should you pick?
• Is OneDrive cheaper than Google Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox?
• Is OneDrive worth it, and what are you actually paying for?
• What's a more private alternative to OneDrive?

How much does OneDrive cost in 2026?

Every current OneDrive plan is in the table below. OneDrive isn't sold as standalone storage anymore; you're buying a Microsoft 365 subscription, and the storage comes bundled in.

Prices in USD, as listed on Microsoft's US pricing pages, June 2026.

The free tier is just 5 GB (more on that in a second). Paying yearly knocks roughly two months off versus paying monthly.

Personal is the one most people land on: 1 TB plus the Office apps for one person. Family is the best deal if you've got people to share cloud storage with, since 6 TB split across up to six accounts for $12.99 works out cheaper per person than Personal.

Worth pausing before you lock in an annual plan, though, because some of these prices and plans change later in 2026.

What's changing with OneDrive pricing in 2026?

Two things are shifting this year, and most of the older pricing roundups haven't caught up to either.

Microsoft is retiring its standalone OneDrive for Business plans. In early 2026, Microsoft confirmed it's discontinuing the standalone SharePoint Online and OneDrive for Business plans, Plan 1 and Plan 2, as The Register reported.

The timeline it gave:

Microsoft's stated reasons were "low customer demand" and "higher operational costs." So if you were using the cheap $5/user OneDrive for Business Plan 1 just to give a team storage, that door is closing, and the alternatives Microsoft points to are the larger, pricier Microsoft 365 suites.

(Some of the named replacements, like capacity packs and pay-as-you-go storage, didn't even have published pricing months after the announcement.)

There's also a Microsoft 365 price increase landing in July 2026, reported in late 2025, that raises prices on parts of the lineup. So the numbers in the table above are a snapshot, and a few of them tick up mid-year.

Both moves point the same direction: Microsoft would rather sell you a bundle than cheap storage on its own. If you're about to commit to a year of OneDrive, check the live price at checkout. And remember, "storage only, paid once" isn't something Microsoft sells anymore.

Is OneDrive free, and how much storage does it offer?

Yes, there's a free tier. The catch is that it's only 5 GB.

Five gigabytes fills up fast. A few hundred phone photos, a couple of video clips, and you're done. Microsoft knows this, which is why the free plan exists mostly as entry-level storage.

Once OneDrive starts backing up your desktop and photos automatically, you hit the ceiling, and the upgrade prompt shows up. It works for trying the service out, but you wouldn't run your backups on it long term.

What do the OneDrive personal plans cost?

Here are the consumer plans one by one:

• Microsoft 365 Basic, $1.99/month (or $19.99/year), 100 GB. The cheapest paid step. You get 100 GB, ad-free Outlook email, and some added security features. No desktop Office apps, though.
• Microsoft 365 Personal, $9.99/month (or $99.99/year), 1 TB. The popular one. A full terabyte for one person, plus the desktop and web versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, and Microsoft Defender. If you want Office and storage together, this is the default pick.
• Microsoft 365 Family, $12.99/month (or $129.99/year), 6 TB. Same as Personal, but shareable with up to six people, each getting their own 1 TB. For three dollars more than Personal, it's the best value in the lineup if you have anyone to share with.
• Microsoft 365 Premium, $19.99/month (or $199.99/year), up to 6 TB. The top consumer tier: up to 6 TB shared across six people, plus Microsoft's full Copilot AI features.

Every paid plan bundles Office apps and email, whether you need them or not. If you live in Word and Excel, great. If you just wanted somewhere safe to put your files, you're paying for a lot of software you'll never open.

What do OneDrive for Business plans cost?

If you're buying for a team, the storage comes through Microsoft 365 Business plans:

Business Basic covers the web and mobile Office apps, custom email, and Teams. Business Standard adds the desktop Office apps. Both give each user 1 TB. The "no Teams" versions are a little cheaper, for regions where Microsoft now sells Teams separately.

That last line, OneDrive for Business Plan 1, is the standalone $5/user storage plan, and it's the one that's disappearing. If you're shopping for a team, don't build around it.

New sign-ups stop on 31 May 2026.

Which OneDrive plan should you pick?

Quick version, by what you actually need:

• You just want to back up photos and a few files. Start on the free 5 GB and see how fast you fill it. If you spill over, Basic at $1.99/month (100 GB) is the cheapest real plan. No Office apps, just storage and email. Plenty for one phone's worth of photos.
• You use Word, Excel, or Outlook regularly. Personal at $9.99/month (1 TB) is the obvious pick. You're getting the desktop Office apps and a terabyte for one person. This is the default for most individuals.
• You're covering a household. Family at $12.99/month (6 TB) is the value play, full stop. Three dollars more than Personal, but up to six people each get their own 1 TB and their own Office apps. If even two of you will use it, Family wins.
• You're buying for a team. Business Basic at $6/user if you only need web and mobile apps, Business Standard at $12.50/user if you need the desktop apps too. Skip the standalone OneDrive for Business plan. It's being retired (see above), so you'd be buying into something with an expiry date.

The yearly plans save you roughly two months versus monthly, but they lock you in right as the July 2026 price increase lands, so check the live rate at checkout. And if your honest answer to "do I need Office?" is no, then every one of these plans is charging you for software you won't open. Worth sitting with, especially since storage-only options can do the same job for less.

Is OneDrive cheaper than Google Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox?

Roughly, the big four cluster around the same price for a terabyte. They mostly compete on what's bundled, not on raw cost. OneDrive's edge is the Office apps thrown in. iCloud leans on tight Apple integration, and Google has its own app ecosystem. Dropbox tends to charge more for pure storage.

Rather than restate every competitor's price here (they change often), we've broken each matchup down separately:

• OneDrive vs iCloud
• Dropbox vs OneDrive
• OneDrive vs Google Drive

None of them really compete on privacy, though, and that's worth a closer look before you pay.

Is OneDrive worth it, and what are you actually paying for?

If you already live in Microsoft 365, OneDrive is a fair deal. The Office bundle is genuinely useful, Family at 6 TB is good value, and it's deeply baked into Windows. Credit where it's due.

But be clear about what your subscription does and doesn't buy you. OneDrive is not zero-knowledge. Microsoft holds the encryption keys, which means Microsoft, not just you, can technically access your files.

That's how features like online file preview and search work, and it's also why your data sits under US legal jurisdiction.

It also hasn't been the smoothest year for OneDrive's reputation. Users have complained about it quietly hijacking local folders, and there are reports of files going missing once an account is over its storage limit, plus a file-sharing security flaw.

Add the ongoing questions about how big tech uses customer data to train AI, and a pattern shows up. None of it is unique to Microsoft. It's the basic trade-off of trusting your files to a company that holds the keys.

It doesn't show up on the price tag, but it's part of what you're paying. Worth weighing before you hand over your files.

What's a more private alternative to OneDrive?

If your honest answer to "do I need Office?" was no, there's a cheaper way to get private storage. Internxt encrypts every file on your device before it's uploaded, using zero-knowledge AES-256 and Kyber-512 post-quantum encryption.

So unlike OneDrive, no one but you can read your data.

Below is a comparison for 1 terabyte of cloud storage, side by side:

Same ballpark on price, with two real differences: your files actually stay private, and you can buy storage with a one-time lifetime payment instead of renting it forever.

With the July 2026 increase coming, that's worth a second look. If you rely on Word and Excel, OneDrive's bundle still wins.

But if you just wanted somewhere safe for your files, Internxt is free to try, offering post-quantum and zero-knowledge encrypted file storage.

If you're interested in a paid plans, you can see the full list of Internxt's features below, and get an 85% discount on all monthly plans, starting at €1.99/month, or avoid subscriptions with an Internxt lifetime plan.

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FAQ

Is OneDrive free?

Yes. OneDrive includes 5 GB of free storage with a Microsoft account. It fills up quickly, so it works better as a trial than a permanent plan. Paid plans start at $1.99/month for 100 GB.

How much does 1 TB of OneDrive cost?

1 TB of OneDrive costs $9.99/month (or $99.99/year) through the Microsoft 365 Personal plan, which also includes the Office apps. There's no way to buy the 1 TB on its own.

Can you buy OneDrive storage without Microsoft 365?

Not really. OneDrive storage is bundled with Microsoft 365 subscriptions, and there's no standalone consumer storage-only plan. The standalone OneDrive for Business plans that did exist are being retired in 2026.

Is OneDrive being discontinued?

OneDrive itself isn't going away, but Microsoft is retiring its standalone SharePoint and OneDrive for Business plans: no new sales after May 2026, no renewals after January 2027, and full retirement by December 2029. Consumer plans aren't affected.

Is OneDrive cheaper than Google Drive?

They're priced similarly for a terabyte. The difference is what's bundled. OneDrive includes Office apps, Google includes its own apps. Neither is meaningfully cheaper on storage alone.

Is OneDrive private?

No, not in the zero-knowledge sense. Microsoft holds the encryption keys to your OneDrive files, so it can technically access them, and your data falls under US jurisdiction. Providers like Internxt use zero-knowledge encryption, so only you can read your files.

Is OneDrive worth paying for?

If you use Microsoft Office, yes. You're getting the apps and the storage together. If you only want cloud storage, you're paying for a bundle you may not need, and a more private, storage-focused alternative may cost the same or less.

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When choosing your cloud storage provider, you may be considering zero-knowledge encryption vs standard encryption.

In this case, two services may come up: Sync.com and Dropbox. Both offer cloud storage, but Sync uses end-to-end encryption, whereas Dropbox does not.

This is just one difference between the two services; in this article, we will cover:

• Sync.com vs Dropbox security
• Pricing and features
• Free plans
• Alternatives

• Sync vs Dropbox free plan
• Sync.com vs Dropbox pricing and features comparison
• Sync.com vs Dropbox security
• Sync.com vs Dropbox: Which is more secure?
• Sync.com vs Dropbox: Which one to choose
• Alternatives to Dropbox and Sync.com
• Sync vs Dropbox vs Internxt overview
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

Table of contents

Sync vs Dropbox free plan

Sync offers 5GB of free storage, which, on average, is enough for:

• 4K video: ~10 minutes
• HD (1080p) video: ~50 minutes
• Photos: ~1,000 photos
• Documents: ~10,000+ documents

Dropbox has a free cloud storage plan of 2GB, which is enough for:

• 4K video: ~4–5 minutes
• HD video: ~20 minutes
• Photos: ~400–500
• Documents: ~4,000–5,000

Below is an overview of what a free plan includes from Sync and Dropbox

Who wins?

Sync wins for its bigger free cloud storage plan, which includes end-to-end encryption for greater privacy.

Dropbox wins if you need cloud storage with multiple compliance options in its free plan, and you need a large number of documents.

Sync.com vs Dropbox pricing and features comparison

If you’re interested in Sync.com vs Dropbox pricing, then both offer monthly and annual plans for individuals and teams, but neither offer lifetime cloud storage plans.

Below is a comparison of Sync.com vs Dropbox pricing for both of their individual monthly plans.

Who wins?

If you need 150 GB–5 TB of storage, Sync is better value. It offers lower monthly prices, unlimited data transfer on every paid plan, and includes privacy-focused features like no third-party tracking

If you need more than 5 TB of storage, Dropbox offers a maximum of 15 TB with advanced business features such as team administration, compliance tracking, and enterprise management.

If you need lifetime storage of up to 100 TB, with a full privacy suite combined with post-quantum encryption, Internxt monthly plans start at €1.99/month, or €285 for lifetime plans.

Sync.com vs Dropbox security

Sync.com vs Dropbox encryption

Both Sync.com and Dropbox encrypt your files, but, like Google Drive, OneDrive, and others, Dropbox encryption is not end-to-end encrypted, whereas Sync.com includes zero-knowledge data encryption for its free and paid plans.

Sync.com uses:

• AES-256 encryption for files stored on its servers (encryption at rest)
• TLS encryption for data being uploaded or downloaded (encryption in transit)
• End-to-end encryption (E2EE)
• Zero-knowledge encryption

With Sync.com, your files are encrypted on your device before they are uploaded. Only you hold the encryption keys, meaning Sync.com cannot read your files, scan their contents, or decrypt them.

Dropbox uses:

• AES-256 encryption for files stored on its servers (encryption at rest)
• TLS/SSL encryption for data in transit
• Server-side encryption
• No end-to-end encryption
• No zero-knowledge encryption

Dropbox manages the encryption keys, so the company can decrypt files when necessary or if asked by law enforcement or government agencies.

Who wins?

To store confidential files, Sync offers encryption that is better for your privacy with end-to-end encryption.

If you’re wondering is Dropbox safe, then yes, it uses industry-standard encryption, but it can still access your files.

Neither Sync nor Dropbox uses post-quantum encryption for its cloud storage, meaning in the future your files could be decrypted by quantum computers, which have enough power to break current encryption protocols.

Internxt Drive, however, uses post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption for free and paid plans, ensuring nobody can access your files and that your data is protected against future cybersecurity threats.

Account security

Sync cloud security offers these features:

• Two-factor authentication (2FA) via authenticator apps
• Strong password hashing so Sync.com cannot read user passwords
• Zero-knowledge account design, where account access is tied to user-controlled keys
• Limited account recovery options to maintain stricter security model
• Ability to log out of all sessions and remove trusted devices

Dropbox is more flexible, with stronger recovery options and includes:

• Two-factor authentication (2FA) using authenticator apps, SMS codes, and hardware security keys
• Login alerts for new devices or unusual sign-in attempts
• Active session and device management with the ability to revoke access
• Password recovery through email-based verification and account recovery systems
• Automated monitoring for suspicious login behavior
• Control over connected third-party app access

Who wins?

Sync.com wins for a more privacy-focused approach, with stronger limitations on recovery and access to preserve a zero-knowledge model.

Dropbox is more flexible, with stronger recovery options, broader 2FA methods, and more advanced login monitoring tools.

Transparency

Neither Dropbox nor Sync is open source, so it is not possible for the security of the platform to be checked or verified.

Instead, you have to trust that Sync uses zero-knowledge encryption, and that neither service has backdoors that could access your files or data.

If transparency is important to you, Internxt is an open source alternative to Sync and Dropbox, with all its code available on GitHub, which has also been independently audited by a leading cybersecurity company.

Privacy and data protection

Due to its zero-knowledge policies, Sync has stronger privacy measures in place to protect and limit the amount of data it has on you by not sharing your data with third parties, and the following privacy measures:

• Collects minimal user data
• No access to file content for indexing or feature-based analysis
• Limits metadata exposure
• Reduced internal visibility into user activity and stored information
• Focus is on limiting what the provider can observe about user behavior and stored data

Dropbox collects more user data to support features like search, previews, sharing, and collaboration; it may also collect:

• File-related metadata and content signals to improve functionality and security features
• Uses user activity data to improve service performance and detect abuse or malware
• Dropbox supports third-party integrations, which can expand how user data is accessed and shared within connected apps and increase the risk of data breaches
• Provides transparency controls and privacy settings, but still relies on data processing to enable features

Who wins?

Sync.com wins for privacy and data minimization.

File sharing

Both Sync and Dropbox offer secure file sharing and include options for setting passwords, expiration dates, and restricting downloads.

Dropbox file sharing is built more for collaboration and flexibility. You can share files and folders through links, shared folders, and team spaces.

Dropbox also supports features like file previews, comments, and integrations with apps like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.

Who wins?

Sync wins for private file sharing due to its zero-knowledge encryption; Dropbox is better if you want to collaborate with others or integrate with other apps.

Backups and file versioning

To protect against ransomware and accidental data loss, Sync and Dropbox offer file versioning for up to 180 days on the highest plan or 30 days on basic plans to restore changed files to past versions.

Backups protect against ransomware by storing additional copies of your files in the cloud, which can be recovered even if your device is attacked by ransomware or files are lost due to malware.

Who wins?

Sync vs Dropbox security in relation to file versioning and backups is pretty equal, but if you want more private cloud storage, then Sync is the better option overall.

Sync.com vs Dropbox: Which is more secure?

Sync and Dropbox both implement strong security measures and encryption for all plans, so rather than which is more secure, the most important thing is what you want from your cloud storage and how you want to store and protect your files.

If you want privacy and confidentiality, Sync’s zero-knowledge design will be more secure for sensitive files, but for general storage, Dropbox has many security controls to protect your files.

Sync.com vs Dropbox: Which one to choose

Choose Sync.com if: you want zero-knowledge encryption, 5 GB of free storage, strong control over file access, and lower-cost storage with unlimited transfer on paid plans.

Choose Dropbox if: you want the best collaboration features, strong account recovery and security tools, deep app integrations, and extra collaboration for teamwork and productivity.

Choose Internxt if: you want a privacy-focused open source and the best encrypted cloud storage with zero-knowledge encryption and post-quantum encryption.

If you want full protection online, Internxt monthly and lifetime plans include Antivirus, VPN, NAS support, Meet, Mail, and more.

Alternatives to Dropbox and Sync.com

Internxt Drive

Internxt Drive is a secure cloud storage service with post-quantum and zero-knowledge encryption based on open-source software. It’s designed to store, sync, and backup files in the cloud and ensure nobody but you can access your files.

Internxt is based in Valencia, Spain, and is GDPR, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and SOC 2 compliant, offering the best data protection and security for all industries.

It offers monthly and lifetime plans, so if you want to avoid the subscription charges mentioned in our sync.com vs Dropbox pricing, then you can get a greater investment with an Internxt lifetime plan.

All paid plans offer backups, Antivirus, and VPN, and for more features, you can check out our paid plans and get an 85% discount on all Internxt plans.

Sync vs Dropbox vs Internxt overview

Now we’ve covered Sync vs Dropbox in detail, if you’re looking for an alternative to Dropbox or Sync, below you can compare both services to Internxt.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Sync.com safer than Dropbox?

Sync.com and Dropbox are secure services with strong encryption and security protections. However, Sync.com and Internxt Drive are more private because they use zero-knowledge encryption.

Sync.com vs Dropbox pricing?

Sync.com is cheaper overall, starting at around $4/month for 150 GB, with lower-cost plans per GB and no extra cost for unlimited data transfer on paid plans.

Dropbox is more expensive, starting at about €11.99/month for 2 TB, but it includes stronger collaboration tools, integrations, and business features.

For lifetime plans or monthly prices starting at €1.99 per month, Internxt is an alternative option to both Sync and Dropbox.

Does Sync.com have end-to-end encryption?

Yes. Sync.com uses end-to-end, zero-knowledge encryption by default, meaning your files are encrypted before they leave your device and only you can decrypt them.

It doesn’t use post-quantum encryption, however, so if you want to future-proof the protection of your files, Internxt Drive offers PQE combined with zero-knowledge encryption.

Need to send a file quickly online but not sure which service to use?

This article covers WeTransfer and Dropbox, and when you should pick a file-sharing service, or if you should send via your cloud storage provider instead.

So, if you’re considering WeTransfer vs Dropbox, there are a few things to consider beforehand, which we will cover extensively, with topics including:

• WeTransfer vs Dropbox differences
• When to choose file sharing or cloud storage
• Free vs paid plans
• Pricing
• Security and encryption
• Private alternatives to both

Table of contents

• WeTransfer vs Dropbox: What’s the difference?
• WeTransfer vs Dropbox free and paid plans
• WeTransfer vs Dropbox file size limits and what you can send (real-world examples)
• Dropbox vs WeTransfer, which one should you choose?
• WeTransfer vs Dropbox: how safe is your personal data?
• Alternatives to WeTransfer and Dropbox
• Related products
• Frequently asked questions

WeTransfer vs Dropbox: What’s the difference?

WeTransfer is for sending files quickly to other people.

You upload files, get a link, and share it. It is best for one-time transfers and does not focus on long-term storage or organization and is not designed for ongoing access or collaboration.

Dropbox, on the other hand, is for storing, syncing, and organizing files over time.

It also offers file sharing features for files or folders by sending a link or inviting people. They can view, download, or edit depending on permissions, and the file stays stored in your account so it can be updated over time.

In short, WeTransfer is for quick sending, while Dropbox is for cloud storage rather than single transfers.

WeTransfer vs Dropbox free and paid plans

WeTransfer free plan

A WeTransfer free plan is enough for occasional use, as it has the following restrictions:

• Share and receive up to 3 GB / month
• 10 transfers per month
• Transfer expiry up to 7 days

This means that:

• If you send one 3 GB file, you've used your entire 30-day data allowance.
• If you send three 1 GB files, you've also reached the 3 GB limit.
• If you send ten 200 MB files, you'll hit the 10-transfer limit even though you've only sent 2 GB.

Therefore, if you need to send large video files regularly between clients, WeTransfer may be enough for one video, but you will hit your data allowance and can’t use it for another 30 days.

If you need unlimited file sharing, with no login or payment details required, Internxt Send is a secure and encrypted alternative to WeTransfer, allowing you to send up to 5GB of files for free, as many times as you like.

WeTransfer paid plans

Starter (for individuals)

€8/month

• Share and receive up to 300GB per month

Ultimate (for individuals)

€23/month

• No limits on the transfer size
• Unlimited transfers per month
• Unlimited transfer expiration
• Custom branding per transfer
• Automatic malware scanning
• Subscribers benefits
• Recover expired transfers

Teams (up to 50 users)

€19/user/month, minimum of 2 users

• Everything in Ultimate, plus:
• Team creation
• Up to 50 members in your team
• Centralized billing

Enterprise (50+ users)

Contact support for pricing

• Everything in Teams, plus:
• Unlimited members in your team
• Custom transfer rules
• Premium support
• Single sign-on (SSO)
• Advanced access management
• Usage and security logs

Additional features include:

• Custom links
• Custom transfer wallpapers
• Shared branding
• Social links

While WeTransfer may be a suitable option for teams or enterprises, €23/month to get unlimited file sharing is a heavy investment when free file sharing options with zero-knowledge encryption are available for free with Internxt Send.

Dropbox vs WeTransfer free & paid plan

The main differences when checking WeTransfer vs Dropbox are that WeTransfer focuses entirely on file sharing features, whereas Dropbox offers file sharing, cloud storage, and more.

With a free Dropbox plan, you get:

• 2 GB of cloud storage
• Share files and folders using shareable links
• Create shared folders for collaboration with other users
• Option to leave comments on shared files and folders
• Access to files from web, mobile, and desktop apps
• Basic file recovery and version history (up to 30 days)

Some advanced sharing features are not included in the free plan, such as:

• Password-protected shared links
• Custom link expiration dates
• Advanced access controls and analytics
• Higher storage and larger collaboration capabilities

Dropbox paid plans start at €11.99/month and go up to €21.50/ month for the most advanced plan, so it is significantly cheaper than WeTransfer.

For more details on Dropbox pricing and its cloud storage features, check out our article below.

WeTransfer vs Dropbox file size limits and what you can send (real-world examples)

A free WeTransfer plan allows 3GB of file sharing per month, which is enough for:

• About 1 to 3 minutes of 4K video (4K video is very large, often 1 GB per minute or more depending on compression)
• Around 30 to 100 HD photos (depending on resolution and file format; RAW files are much larger, JPEGs are smaller)
• Hundreds to thousands of documents (PDFs, Word files, etc., since they are usually very small in size)

For unlimited file sharing, a paid WeTransfer account is required.

Dropbox is for storing and syncing files over time, so the free cloud storage of 2 GB is shared across everything you keep, including file sharing, so 2 GB will allow for roughly the same size to share videos, photos, or documents.

For larger file sharing, Internxt Send offers up to 5GB of file sharing for free, without needing to create an account, so if you need to send large videos, photo albums, or documents, Internxt is the better option.

Dropbox vs WeTransfer, which one should you choose?

When to use WeTransfer: when you need to quickly send large files to someone once, without creating an account or setting up storage. It is best for one-time sharing and simple delivery.

When to use Dropbox: when you need cloud storage or collaboration on files and folders over time. It is better for organizing files, syncing across devices, and working with others regularly.

When to use an alternative: For zero-knowledge encrypted file sharing, which neither Dropbox nor WeTransfer offers, you should use Internxt Send or Internxt Drive to share files online securely and in total privacy.

WeTransfer vs Dropbox: how safe is your personal data?

Encryption

For data encryption, Dropbox and WeTransfer both use encryption in transit with TLS (HTTPS) and encrypt files at rest using AES-256.

However, neither option offers zero-knowledge encryption for its file sharing or cloud storage services, meaning:

• WeTransfer or Dropbox can access your files if required for legal, security, or service reasons
• Files are encrypted, but the company holds the encryption keys, so it is not end-to-end encrypted
• Data could be scanned for abuse detection, compliance, or service improvement
• If accounts are compromised, attackers may access more data because decryption is possible on the server side
• Government or legal requests can force access to stored content in some cases

Therefore, if you need to send private documents and ensure maximum confidentiality and privacy, the best alternative is a service with zero-knowledge encryption, such as Internxt Send or Internxt Drive, a private alternative to Dropbox and WeTransfer.

Privacy policy: what data do WeTransfer and Dropbox collect?

WeTransfer collects a lot of data about you from:

1. Information you provide,
2. Information collected automatically
3. Information received from other sources.

According to its privacy policy, WeTransfer collects a lot of data about you, your devices, including:

• Files, photos, videos, audio, metadata, messages, comments, reviews, and descriptions.
• Device model, OS, IP address, system language, device ID, and uses this to determine your approximate location.

WeTransfer also faced criticism when updating its privacy policy, with many users voicing their concerns that the company was using data from their files to train its AI and machine learning models.

Similarly, Dropbox also collects data on:

• Account information such as name, email, password, and billing details
• Files you upload, store, or share on the platform
• Metadata about your files such as file names, size, type, and when they were created or modified
• Usage data like how you interact with Dropbox, device information, IP address, and logs of activity
• Sharing data such as who you share files with and when links are accessed

Therefore, if you want your data handled privately, neither WeTransfer nor Dropbox is the best option, so you are best choosing a company that protects your data, rather than profits from it, like Internxt.

Transparency

Open source software allows security experts to verify the security of platforms, check for vulnerabilities, updates, or if there are any backdoors to your data.

Dropbox and WeTransfer are not open source, so you have to trust that they have no access to your personal data and that their platform is secure.

Data breaches

Both Dropbox and WeTransfer have faced security breaches in the past, which put user accounts, emails, and shared files at risk.

Dropbox leaked 68 million user passwords in 2012, and in 2019, a system error with WeTransfer caused emails to be leaked, and many people received the wrong shared files, leaking potentially confidential information.

Alternatives to WeTransfer and Dropbox

Internxt Drive

Internxt Drive offers post-quantum and zero-knowledge encrypted cloud storage and file sharing to share private videos, photos, and more in total privacy.

With Internxt, you have total control over who can access your files, as the encryption keys are held on your device, so not even Internxt can see them.

When you share files, the recipient doesn’t need an Internxt account to download them, and you can send up to 10GB of files, enough for:

• About 6 to 10 minutes of 4K HD video (depending on quality and compression)
• About 10 to 25 minutes of HD video (1080p, depending on bitrate)
• Around 100 to 300 HD photos (fewer if RAW, more if compressed JPEG)
• Several thousand documents such as PDFs, Word files, and spreadsheets

Additional features include password-protected file sharing, view and revoke access, and file collaboration.

Internxt is fully open source, and GDPR, HIPAA, ISO 27001, and SOC 2 compliant, and independently audited to ensure maximum data protection and security for individual and enterprise use.

Aside from that, Internxt offers a more expanded product suite than WeTransfer and Dropbox, with Antivirus, VPN, Meet, Mail, and more available, which you can discover with our full list of features below and get started from just €1.99/month.

So if you want to combine secure cloud storage with full privacy online, visit the Internxt website for 85% off all monthly and lifetime plans, and pick your perfect plan.

Internxt Send

You can combine your Internxt Drive plan with our free service, Internxt Send, to get the same zero-knowledge encryption when sending files securely online.

Once you upload your files, you can send the link via email or message, and everything is encrypted on your device for maximum privacy. Files will automatically expire after 15 days, and there are no file transfer limits for the number or size of files you want to share, so you can use the service as often as you want.

No login or other details are required to use Internxt Send, so you know your personal data is protected with Internxt, and your files are protected with the best encryption available and accessible to nobody.

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Frequently asked questions

WeTransfer vs Dropbox: which is faster?

WeTransfer is generally faster for one-time file transfers because you simply upload a file and share a download link. It is designed specifically for sending large files quickly.

Dropbox can take longer for the initial upload because it stores and syncs files to your cloud storage. However, once files are uploaded, sharing them is fast, and only changes to files are synced, making it more efficient for ongoing collaboration.

If you need to send a file once, WeTransfer is usually faster. If you regularly access, update, and share files, Dropbox is the better long-term option.

Is WeTransfer safer than Dropbox?

Neither WeTransfer nor Dropbox is inherently safer than the other. Both use TLS encryption for data in transit and AES-256 encryption for data at rest.

The main difference is privacy, not security. Neither service uses zero knowledge encryption by default, so both companies hold the encryption keys and can technically access your files if required for legal, security, or operational reasons.

If your priority is secure file transfers, then you should choose more private alternatives such as Internxt Send or Drive.

What's the largest file WeTransfer and Dropbox allow?

The largest file size you can send depends on your plan.

With WeTransfer, the free plan lets you send up to 3 GB per transfer, while the Starter plan increases this to 300 GB. Ultimate supports transfers up to 1 TB, and Enterprise plans offer custom limits.

With Dropbox Transfer, the free Basic plan allows transfers of up to 2 GB. Paid plans increase this to up to 250 GB, depending on your subscription.

If you need free file sharing for large files, Internxt Send offers large file transfers for up to 5GB.

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