IDrive vs Google Drive
IDrive 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.
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Quick Answer
Google Drive beats IDrive for most users. It scores 9.2/10 vs 8.6/10 and 15gb free storage (best free tier). Choose IDrive if you need excellent backup features.
IDrive
Best for comprehensive backup and versioning
Starting from
$59.88/yr
Google Drive
WinnerBest for collaboration with 15GB free storage
Starting from
$1.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Starting Price | $59.88/yr | $1.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Storage | ||
| Free Storage | 10GB | 15GB |
| Max Storage | 20TB+ | 2TB+ |
| File Versioning | 30 versions | 30 days |
| Security | ||
| Encryption | 256-bit AES | In-transit + at-rest |
| 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
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 key difference: IDrive offers unlimited devices while Google Drive 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.
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 IDrive's 8.6/10. 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, 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 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 IDrive better than Google Drive?
Google Drive scores higher in our testing (9.2/10 vs 8.6/10). Google Drive excels at 15gb free storage (best free tier), while IDrive is better for excellent backup features.
Which is cheaper, IDrive or Google Drive?
Google Drive is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. Google Drive offers NaN% savings.
IDrive vs Google Drive: which should I choose?
Choose IDrive if you prioritize excellent backup features. Choose Google Drive if you need 15gb free storage (best free tier). Both are solid cloud storage options.
What's the main difference between IDrive and Google Drive?
The main difference is IDrive offers best for comprehensive backup and versioning, while Google Drive focuses on best for collaboration with 15gb free storage.