Cloud storage platforms protect you from data loss by allowing you to access your data on any device. It ensures that your data remains secure even if your device is damaged or stolen. As a result, cloud storage is not only cost-efficient and straightforward, but it is also a necessity for many businesses, regardless of their size and structure.
This article compares OneDrive and Dropbox regarding their features and pricing to determine which tool better suits your data storage needs.
Overview: OneDrive vs Dropbox Features
OneDrive is the cloud storage solution provided by Microsoft, and it integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft Office Suite tools. Dropbox also integrates with Microsoft, so users can edit their Dropbox content using Microsoft tools. In addition, both tools offer cloud storage and synchronization services.
However, there are slight differences in their approaches and features. For instance, Dropbox seems more suited to creative businesses as it supports apps like Adobe and iPhoto. The platform also offers unlimited file uploads, making it primarily a productivity tool. On the other hand, OneDrive is a collaboration tool that allows users to comment on and edit documents in real-time.
Accessibility and Ease Of Use
You can access both platforms on multiple devices and channels (mobile, web, and desktop apps). This makes it easy for users to save, sync, and access their files from any device.
OneDrive comes pre-installed on all Windows computers, making it more accessible to both old and new users. However, Dropbox is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux-based systems.
OneDrive vs Dropbox Pricing
OneDrive and Dropbox offer free plans with limited features and storage space. OneDrive’s free plan comes with 5 GB of storage space and file storage in a personal vault limited to three files. OneDrive offers three paid plans for personal data storage and four paid plans for business data storage.
The first business plan tier costs $5.00 per month and comes with 1 TB of storage space. The plan also allows file upload limited to 100 GB, file sharing and access permissions, multi-page scanning, file versioning, 24/7 phone support, etc. The second business plan costs $10.00 per user per month and unlimited cloud storage. The plan also grants subscribers access to data search, custom passwords, priority support on purchasing additional seats at no extra cost, etc.
The Microsoft 365 Business Basic plan also costs $5.00 per user per month. However, this plan comes with integration with Microsoft Office tools and all the other features of the first business plan. The Microsoft 365 Business Standard plan costs $12.50 per user per month. It comes with a mailbox with up to 50GB of storage, unlimited video conferencing for 250 people, team hubs, the Microsoft Teams feature, integration with collaboration tools like Yammer, 24/7 phone, online support, etc.
Dropbox Plans and Pricing
Dropbox offers a free 30-day trial period and four paid subscriptions for business storage needs. The Standard plan comes with 5 GB of storage space and only three users. It costs $12.50 per user and comes with unlimited shared devices, limited file recovery, file locking, an admin console, etc. The Advanced plan costs $20 per user per month and unlimited storage space. It also comes with access to APIs, billing, audit logs, SSO, etc.
The Professional plan costs $16.58 per month and comes with 3 TB of storage space. It also comes with Dropbox Paper, priority email, live chat support, integrated cloud content, etc. The Enterprise plan, designed for large enterprises, comes with custom pricing dependent on the needs of an organization.
While OneDrive is cheaper overall, Dropbox offers more plan options for businesses of all sizes.
READ MORE: Dropbox vs Google Drive Features and Pricing Review
Syncing
Both platforms allow you to upload and sync files across your devices. They also offer block-level sync that enables users to upload updated sections of files to the cloud. OneDrive and Dropbox also offer Smart Sync. However, OneDrive calls this feature “files on demand.”
File Recovery
OneDrive and Dropbox allow users to recover accidentally lost or deleted files. However, their file recovery times vary. For example, OneDrive allows users to recover lost files within a 30-day limit, but Dropbox allows users to recover lost files for up to 180 days.
Integration
Both apps offer users access to integrations with other software to enhance productivity and ensure a seamless workflow. However, Dropbox offers more integrations than OneDrive and works well with Adobe, iPhoto, and other creative work tools.
OneDrive vs Dropbox Features: Security
Both platforms use encryption to protect your data from your device to the cloud while in transit. They also use 2FA as an added layer of security for accounts and data stored.
However, there is a slight difference in securing files stored on their servers. OneDrive places individual files in a separate “lockbox” with a “key” attached to each file. On the other hand, Dropbox uses one “lockbox” for all the data stored in an account.
OneDrive’s security measures make it harder for any potential hacker to access all of your data at once.
Another point to consider is that Dropbox has had security leaks, including a hack in 2012, while OneDrive has not recorded such an intrusion yet.
Bottom Line: OneDrive vs Dropbox Features and Pricing
OneDrive and Dropbox are great platforms that allow individuals and businesses to store their files securely and collaborate whenever the need arises. However, their differences point out which users will benefit the most from each platform.
OneDrive is considerably cheaper than Dropbox, and for small businesses and entrepreneurs on a limited budget, OneDrive is a better option.
On the other hand, larger companies and enterprises will prefer Dropbox for several reasons. First, Dropbox has more plans, which makes the platform suited to meet the needs of businesses at every stage of growth. Secondly, Dropbox offers unlimited storage at $20 a month. While OneDrive offers unlimited storage at just $10 a month.
Another point of consideration would be integrations with the tools you already use. For example, for individuals and companies who already use Office Suite tools, OneDrive is a preferable option because you can enjoy the full range of Microsoft tools.
However, if your business needs to store large files, Dropbox is a better choice as it allows users to store files in different formats and comes with unlimited storage.
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