pCloud vs Google Drive
pCloud 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 pCloud for most users. It scores 9.2/10 vs 8.5/10 and 15gb free storage (best free tier). Choose pCloud if you need lifetime subscription option.
pCloud
Swiss privacy with lifetime storage option
Starting from
$49.99/yr
Google Drive
WinnerBest for collaboration with 15GB free storage
Starting from
$1.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Starting Price | $49.99/yr | $1.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Storage | ||
| Free Storage | 10GB | 15GB |
| Max Storage | 2TB | 2TB+ |
| File Versioning | 30 days | 30 days |
| Security | ||
| Encryption | TLS + 256-bit AES | In-transit + at-rest |
| 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
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: pCloud focuses on lifetime subscription option, while Google Drive emphasizes 15gb free storage (best free tier). Both philosophies have merit depending on your priorities.
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.
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 pCloud's 8.5/10. 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, 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 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 pCloud better than Google Drive?
Google Drive scores higher in our testing (9.2/10 vs 8.5/10). Google Drive excels at 15gb free storage (best free tier), while pCloud is better for lifetime subscription option.
Which is cheaper, pCloud or Google Drive?
Google Drive is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. Google Drive offers NaN% savings.
pCloud vs Google Drive: which should I choose?
Choose pCloud if you prioritize lifetime subscription option. Choose Google Drive if you need 15gb free storage (best free tier). Both are solid cloud storage options.
What's the main difference between pCloud and Google Drive?
The main difference is pCloud offers swiss privacy with lifetime storage option, while Google Drive focuses on best for collaboration with 15gb free storage.