Box vs Google Drive
Box vs Google Drive comes down to more than just storage space - sync reliability, sharing features, and ecosystem integration all play a role. After storing files on both services for extended periods, Google Drive leads with 9.2/10.
Some products are sponsored. Rankings reflect our honest assessment. See our affiliate disclosure
Quick Answer
Google Drive beats Box for most users. It scores 9.2/10 vs 8.4/10 and 15gb free storage (best free tier). Choose Box if you need enterprise-grade security and compliance.
Box
Enterprise content management with top-tier security
Starting from
$5/mo
Google Drive
WinnerBest for collaboration with 15GB free storage
Starting from
$1.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Starting Price | $5/mo | $1.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Storage | ||
| Free Storage | 10GB | 15GB |
| Max Storage | Unlimited | 2TB+ |
| File Versioning | 100 versions | 30 days |
| Security | ||
| Encryption | AES 256-bit + TLS | In-transit + at-rest |
| Zero Knowledge | Box KeySafe option | |
| Features | ||
| Collaboration | ||
| Offline Access | ||
| Desktop App | ||
| Mobile App | ||
| Unlimited Devices | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Box
- Enterprise-grade security and compliance
- 1500+ third-party app integrations
- Unlimited storage on business plans
- Box Sign for e-signatures included
- Advanced admin and governance controls
- SOC, HIPAA, FedRAMP compliant
- Expensive for small teams
- 10GB free storage limited
- Occasional sync slowdowns
- Complex pricing tiers
Google Drive
- 15GB free storage (best free tier)
- Excellent real-time collaboration
- Seamless Google Workspace integration
- Powerful AI-powered search with Gemini
- Works on all platforms
- Generous family sharing (up to 5 members)
- Privacy concerns with Google scanning
- Storage shared with Gmail and Photos
- Limited offline capabilities
Key Difference
The core difference lies in approach: Box focuses on enterprise-grade security and compliance, while Google Drive emphasizes 15gb free storage (best free tier). Both philosophies have merit depending on your priorities.
Which Should You Choose?
Box
Choose Box if you prioritize enterprise-grade security and compliance, want to start with a free tier, need unlimited usage, or value 1500+ third-party app integrations.
Google Drive
Choose Google Drive if you prioritize 15gb free storage (best free tier), want to start with a free tier, or value excellent real-time collaboration.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Google Drive is our winner with a rating of 9.2/10 compared to Box's 8.4/10. Google Drive stands out for its 15gb free storage (best free tier) and excellent real-time collaboration. Google Drive also offers better value at its price point. However, Box remains an excellent choice if enterprise-grade security and compliance is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Moving files between Box and Google Drive is time-consuming for large collections. Download everything locally first (ensure you have space), then upload to the new service. Consider keeping both active during the transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Box better than Google Drive?
Google Drive scores higher in our testing (9.2/10 vs 8.4/10). Google Drive excels at 15gb free storage (best free tier), while Box is better for enterprise-grade security and compliance.
Which is cheaper, Box or Google Drive?
Google Drive is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. Google Drive offers NaN% savings.
Box vs Google Drive: which should I choose?
Choose Box if you prioritize enterprise-grade security and compliance. Choose Google Drive if you need 15gb free storage (best free tier). Both are solid cloud storage options.
What's the main difference between Box and Google Drive?
The main difference is Box offers enterprise content management with top-tier security, while Google Drive focuses on best for collaboration with 15gb free storage.