pCloud vs Dropbox
pCloud 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 pCloud for most users. It scores 8.8/10 vs 8.5/10 and excellent file syncing reliability. Choose pCloud if you need lifetime subscription option.
pCloud
Swiss privacy with lifetime storage option
Starting from
$49.99/yr
Dropbox
WinnerPioneer of cloud sync with excellent sharing
Starting from
$11.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| Starting Price | $49.99/yr | $11.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Storage | ||
| Free Storage | 10GB | 2GB |
| Max Storage | 2TB | 3TB+ |
| File Versioning | 30 days | 180 days |
| Security | ||
| Encryption | TLS + 256-bit AES | 256-bit AES |
| Zero Knowledge | Crypto add-on | |
| Features | ||
| Collaboration | ||
| Offline Access | ||
| Desktop App | ||
| Mobile App | ||
| Unlimited Devices | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
pCloud
- Lifetime subscription option
- Swiss privacy laws
- Optional zero-knowledge encryption
- Built-in media player
- Virtual drive saves local space
- 10GB free with bonuses up to 20GB
- Crypto add-on costs extra
- No native document editing
- Fewer integrations 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: pCloud offers lifetime option while Dropbox provides smart sync. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
pCloud
Choose pCloud if you prioritize lifetime subscription option, want to start with a free tier, or value swiss privacy laws.
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 pCloud's 8.5/10. 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, pCloud remains an excellent choice if lifetime subscription option 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 pCloud 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 pCloud better than Dropbox?
Dropbox scores higher in our testing (8.8/10 vs 8.5/10). Dropbox excels at excellent file syncing reliability, while pCloud is better for lifetime subscription option.
Which is cheaper, pCloud or Dropbox?
Dropbox is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. Dropbox offers NaN% savings.
pCloud vs Dropbox: which should I choose?
Choose pCloud if you prioritize lifetime subscription option. Choose Dropbox if you need excellent file syncing reliability. Both are solid cloud storage options.
What's the main difference between pCloud and Dropbox?
The main difference is pCloud offers swiss privacy with lifetime storage option, while Dropbox focuses on pioneer of cloud sync with excellent sharing.