Filen
End-to-end encrypted cloud storage and file sharing from Germany.
Alternatives · 2026
Alternatives to Dropbox
Cloud file storage and sync across devices and teams.
9 hand-curated alternatives from MintedSaaS's directory. See the Dropbox listing →
Dropbox is a cloud storage and file-sync service that lets individuals and teams store documents, photos, and projects on remote servers and access them across phones, tablets, and computers. It's been the default choice for general-purpose file syncing since 2008, widely used by freelancers, small businesses, and enterprise teams who need files available everywhere. The core appeal is simplicity: drag files into a folder, and they sync automatically to all your devices and shared collaborators.
Most users reach for Dropbox either for personal backup and access (keeping documents synchronized across a laptop and phone) or for team collaboration (sharing folders with colleagues, version history, and commenting on files). It handles straightforward scenarios well—a designer sharing project files with a client, a manager syncing spreadsheets across the company, a student keeping notes backed up. Visitors comparing Dropbox against alternatives typically care about pricing, privacy (especially whether the provider can see your files), storage limits, cross-platform support, and whether the sync quality and sharing controls match their workflow.
What we offer that competes
Tresorit
Zero-knowledge encrypted file sharing for businesses.
Proton Drive
End-to-end encrypted cloud storage from the Proton team.
Internxt
Open-source-friendly end-to-end encrypted cloud storage.
pCloud
Swiss cloud storage with optional zero-knowledge encryption add-on.
Sync.com
Zero-knowledge cloud storage and file sharing from Canada.
MEGA
End-to-end encrypted cloud storage with a generous free tier.
Box
Enterprise cloud content management with strong governance.
Google Drive
Cloud storage and file collaboration inside Google Workspace.
What to look for
- Whether the service encrypts files end-to-end so that the company cannot access your data
- Whether desktop sync works offline and uploads changes automatically when you reconnect
- Whether you can set granular permissions (view-only, edit, or admin) per person or per group
- Whether the free tier is large enough for your typical use case without upgrading paid plans
- Whether the service offers version history and whether deleted files can be recovered after 30+ days
- Whether the app or web interface requires a learning curve or setup beyond signing in with a password
FAQ
What are the best alternatives to Dropbox?
Filen, Tresorit, and Proton Drive offer end-to-end encryption so the provider can't read your files, while pCloud and Sync.com provide encrypted storage with simpler setup. Box and Google Drive prioritize team collaboration and integration with enterprise tools. MEGA offers large free storage but encrypts locally, requiring you to manage keys. The choice depends on whether you prioritize privacy, collaboration features, or pricing.
Are there free alternatives to Dropbox?
Yes. Google Drive offers 15 GB free and works well for basic document syncing. MEGA provides 20 GB free but with a steeper learning curve for privacy features. pCloud's free tier gives 10 GB. Filen offers 3 GB free but focuses on encryption. All free tiers have limited sharing and sync features compared to paid plans.
How do I choose a file storage service for my team?
Evaluate integration depth (does it connect to Slack, Zapier, or your project tools?), permission controls (can you restrict folder access by person or group?), and whether editing happens in-app or requires downloads. For privacy-sensitive work, check if end-to-end encryption is available. For large teams, test whether version history and audit logs meet your compliance needs.
What platforms do Dropbox alternatives support?
Most alternatives run on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Proton Drive, Tresorit, and Sync.com offer full cross-platform sync. MEGA and Google Drive have strong mobile apps but less aggressive desktop syncing. Box integrates tightly with Windows and macOS enterprise setups but less so with Linux.
Which file storage service has the best privacy?
Filen, Tresorit, and Proton Drive use end-to-end encryption by default, meaning even the company can't decrypt your files. Sync.com and pCloud offer encrypted storage but the provider holds encryption keys. Google Drive and Box don't encrypt data in transit to their servers. If privacy is your main concern, prioritize end-to-end encryption.
Can I host file storage on my own server?
Most commercial alternatives to Dropbox (Tresorit, Proton Drive, pCloud, Sync.com, MEGA, Box, Google Drive) are cloud-only and don't offer on-premises deployment. Filen is cloud-based but privacy-focused. If self-hosting matters, consider open-source options like Nextcloud or Seafile instead.
What's the difference between file sync and cloud storage?
File sync (Dropbox, pCloud) automatically copies files to your devices so you can work offline and upload changes when reconnected. Cloud storage (Google Drive, Box) primarily stores files online and syncs only what you actively pull down. Sync works better for offline-heavy workflows; cloud storage suits teams who mostly work online.
Do I need to pay for file storage if I have unlimited phone photos?
Photo backup services (like Google Photos) and file storage overlap but aren't identical. Google Photos stores unlimited photos but compresses them and doesn't sync documents or folders the way Dropbox does. If you need organized file sync across devices for work, a dedicated storage service is better. If you only backup photos, a photo-specific app may suffice.