IDrive vs Dropbox
IDrive vs Dropbox 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, Dropbox leads with 8.8/10.
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Quick Answer
Dropbox beats IDrive for most users. It scores 8.8/10 vs 8.6/10 and excellent file syncing reliability. Choose IDrive if you need excellent backup features.
IDrive
Best for comprehensive backup and versioning
Starting from
$59.88/yr
Dropbox
WinnerPioneer of cloud sync with excellent sharing
Starting from
$11.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 |
| Starting Price | $59.88/yr | $11.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Storage | ||
| Free Storage | 10GB | 2GB |
| Max Storage | 20TB+ | 3TB+ |
| File Versioning | 30 versions | 180 days |
| Security | ||
| Encryption | 256-bit AES | 256-bit AES |
| Zero Knowledge | Optional | |
| Features | ||
| Collaboration | ||
| Offline Access | ||
| Desktop App | ||
| Mobile App | ||
| Unlimited Devices | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
IDrive
- Excellent backup features
- Unlimited devices on one account
- Physical drive backup option
- 30 previous versions retained
- Snapshots for ransomware protection
- Very affordable for storage offered
- Sync is secondary to backup
- Interface feels dated
- Slower upload speeds than competitors
Dropbox
- Excellent file syncing reliability
- Smart Sync saves local storage
- Great sharing and collaboration
- Dropbox Paper for docs
- Dropbox Dash AI search across tools
- Transfer large files easily
- Only 2GB free storage
- Expensive compared to competitors
- 3-device limit on free tier
Key Difference
The key difference: IDrive offers unlimited devices while Dropbox provides collaboration. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
IDrive
Choose IDrive if you prioritize excellent backup features, want to start with a free tier, or value unlimited devices on one account.
Dropbox
Choose Dropbox if you prioritize excellent file syncing reliability, want to start with a free tier, or value smart sync saves local storage.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Dropbox is our winner with a rating of 8.8/10 compared to IDrive's 8.6/10. Dropbox stands out for its excellent file syncing reliability and smart sync saves local storage. Dropbox also offers better value at its price point. However, IDrive remains an excellent choice if excellent backup features 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 IDrive and Dropbox 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 IDrive better than Dropbox?
Dropbox scores higher in our testing (8.8/10 vs 8.6/10). Dropbox excels at excellent file syncing reliability, while IDrive is better for excellent backup features.
Which is cheaper, IDrive or Dropbox?
Dropbox is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. Dropbox offers NaN% savings.
IDrive vs Dropbox: which should I choose?
Choose IDrive if you prioritize excellent backup features. Choose Dropbox if you need excellent file syncing reliability. Both are solid cloud storage options.
What's the main difference between IDrive and Dropbox?
The main difference is IDrive offers best for comprehensive backup and versioning, while Dropbox focuses on pioneer of cloud sync with excellent sharing.