Filen
End-to-end encrypted cloud storage and file sharing from Germany.
Alternatives · 2026
Alternatives to Google Drive
Cloud storage and file collaboration inside Google Workspace.
9 hand-curated alternatives from MintedSaaS's directory. See the Google Drive listing →
Google Drive is Google's cloud storage and file collaboration tool, tightly integrated with Google Workspace and Gmail. It lets teams store documents, spreadsheets, and videos online, then share them with permission controls and real-time editing. Most users access it through the browser or via synced folders on their computer. Google Drive appeals to businesses and individuals already embedded in the Google ecosystem—companies running Gmail, Workspace, or Google Calendar often adopt Drive as their default file storage without evaluating alternatives.
The typical workflow involves uploading files to Drive, sharing links with collaborators, and editing documents together in Google Docs or Sheets. Teams use it for project files, meeting notes, templates, and archives. However, some users seek alternatives for privacy reasons (concerns about Google's data practices), to avoid vendor lock-in, to use a non-Google email provider, or because their organization mandates a different storage vendor. Others want stronger encryption, more generous free tiers, or compatibility with specific compliance frameworks. Still others simply prefer a different interface or pricing model.
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.
Dropbox
Cloud file storage and sync across devices and teams.
What to look for
- Whether files are encrypted end-to-end by default so the provider cannot read your data
- Whether the service includes native real-time collaborative editing or relies on third-party integrations
- Whether the free tier includes automated file sync to your computer or only web-based access
- Whether deleted files can be recovered for 30+ days and how many previous file versions are retained
- Whether the service integrates natively with Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zapier, or your existing business tools
- Whether permissions allow granular control such as view-only, download-only, or edit-only access per share link
FAQ
What's the best alternative to Google Drive?
The best alternative depends on your priority: Proton Drive if you want end-to-end encryption by default, Dropbox if you need the most native integrations outside Google Workspace, or Tresorit if your industry demands HIPAA or zero-knowledge compliance. pCloud and Sync.com are strong middle-ground options with encrypted storage and reasonable pricing.
Are there free alternatives to Google Drive?
Yes. Filen and Internxt both offer free tiers with multi-gigabyte storage and encryption. pCloud's free tier is more limited (10GB), and Proton Drive provides 5GB free to Proton Mail users. MEGA offers 20GB free with encrypted storage but requires manual login, no automated sync.
Which cloud storage platforms support real-time collaboration like Google Drive?
None of the alternatives fully replicate Google Docs-style simultaneous editing. Dropbox and Box integrate with Microsoft Office and other third-party apps for collaboration, but the workflow differs from Google Drive. Most alternatives focus on file sync and sharing rather than native document editing.
What should I look for in a Google Drive alternative?
Decide whether end-to-end encryption matters to you (Proton Drive, Tresorit, Sync.com offer it; Google Drive does not). Check integration breadth if you use Slack, Microsoft Teams, or other tools. Verify the free tier size if cost is a factor. Confirm file version history depth and how long files stay recoverable after deletion.
Can I import my Google Drive files to another cloud storage service?
Yes. You can download files from Google Drive as a .zip, then upload them to any alternative. Some services like Dropbox and Box have import tools or can connect via APIs for automated migration, but most alternatives require manual download and re-upload for large libraries.
Do Google Drive alternatives work on mobile and desktop?
All nine alternatives offer mobile apps (iOS and Android) and desktop clients for Windows and Mac. Sync.com, pCloud, and Tresorit sync files to your computer like Google Drive. Filen and Internxt emphasize encryption but may sync more slowly. Box is designed for enterprise teams and requires more setup.
What are the main reasons people leave Google Drive?
Privacy and encryption are the biggest drivers—Google Drive scans files for content, while Proton Drive, Tresorit, and Sync.com use client-side encryption so the provider can't see your data. Others switch to avoid Google account dependence, to get better pricing per terabyte, or because their workplace mandates a specific vendor like Box or Dropbox.
How do permissions and sharing work in Google Drive alternatives?
Most alternatives offer share links with password protection and expiration dates. Dropbox, Box, and Sync.com let you set granular permissions (view-only, download-only, edit). Encryption-first services like Proton Drive and Tresorit limit some sharing flexibility to maintain zero-knowledge architecture—they often require recipients to use a web link rather than native access.