Cloud storage is a safe, third-party remote server on which you can store data and have it readily accessible as long as you have an internet connection. The cloud storage platform securely hosts and manages the server data, so you won’t have to do anything besides store your files.

The biggest benefit of cloud storage is that it is a scalable and cost-effective alternative to traditional storage devices. Individuals who require limited space of up to 15GB will be content with free cloud storage plans. Cloud storage considerably improves data security since the cloud servers must comply with cybersecurity laws. Most of them go beyond basic protection and have features like end-to-end encryption.

Geekflare has compiled this list of the best free cloud storage platforms based on storage capacity, security and encryption features, offline availability, etc.

  • Google Drive – Best Overall
  • Zoho WorkDrive – Best for Small to Medium Businesses
  • Sync.com – Best for Sharing Files
  • Box – Best for e-Signature Features
  • OneDrive – Best for Microsoft 365 Integration
  • Koofr – Best for Keeping Data in Europe
  • Dropbox – Best for Document Collaboration
  • iCloud Drive – Best for Apple Devices
  • MediaFire – Best for Quick File Sharing
  • Degoo – Best for Massive Free Storage Tier
  • pCloud – Best for Small Businesses
  • Icedrive – Best for Twofish Encryption
  • MEGA – Best for Large Free Storage Allowance
  • Internxt – Best for Decentralized Storage Focus
  • NordLocker – Best for Advanced Encryption Features
  • Show moreShow less

You can trust Geekflare

Imagine the satisfaction of finding just what you needed. We understand that feeling, too, so we go to great lengths to evaluate freemium, subscribe to the premium plan if required, have a cup of coffee, and test the products to provide unbiased reviews! While we may earn affiliate commissions, our primary focus remains steadfast: delivering unbiased editorial insights, and in-depth reviews. See how we test.

Google Drive

Google Drive

Best Overall

Geekflare rating score 4.5 out of 5
4.5
|
  • Encryption
    AES256
  • Available Offline
    Yes
  • Customer Support
    Chat, Forum
15 GB Free Storage
Try Google Drive

About Google Drive

Google Drive is one of the most widely used cloud storage platforms. It offers a free version for its users. It has a simple UI with incredible features, and it’s backed by the collaborative Google ecosystem that has access to all productivity tools.

Google Drive is a great cloud storage platform for individuals and businesses that love high scalability. It supports various integration options with third-party apps like Zoom, YouTube, and Webhooks.

Google Drive’s file management and organization are also top-notch. All the files are arranged systematically, and you can search them by date, people added, or last activity. The ease of accessibility across all devices also contributes to its insane popularity. It is accessible from your smartphone, tablet, computer, or smartwatch.

Google Drive Features

  • Key feature

    Integrates with Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms.

  • Key feature

    Offers easy and quick file sharing with people.

  • Key feature

    Provides real-time collaboration on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.

  • Key feature

    Is accessible from multiple devices.

  • Key feature

    Has file encryption, two-step verification, and expiration dates for shared files.

Google Drive Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    Good cross-platform functionality, integrating with Adobe, DocuSign, Atlassian, etc.

  • Advantage

    Meet video and voice conferencing with up to 100 participants.

  • Advantage

    It offers free storage of up to 15 GB, which is sufficient for most individual users.

  • Disadvantage

    Does not provide online support with the free version.

  • Disadvantage

    The free plan does not provide a custom business email.

Zoho WorkDrive

Zoho WorkDrive

Best for Small to Medium Businesses

Geekflare rating score 4.2 out of 5
4.2
|
  • Encryption
    256-bit AES
  • Available Offline
    Yes
  • Customer Support
    Phone, Live Chat
5 GB Free Storage
Try Zoho WorkDrive

About Zoho WorkDrive

Zoho WorkDrive offers a free cloud storage solution with incredible security features and industry-standard encryption protocols. Their cloud storage platform is business-centric, making it ideal for professionals.

Zoho WorkDrive has features like real-time synchronization and global access through any device with sanctioned credentials, providing a central place to securely store data and assign responsibility for each project or team.

Zoho WorkDrive allows delegating admin responsibilities to team leaders to manage their respective team folders and other members as organizers, editors, or viewers for better control. The main window has a drop-down menu with Zoho’s native workplace apps, and you can switch to any app with a click.

Zoho WorkDrive Features

  • Key feature

    Offers universal content search to find your files quickly.

  • Key feature

    Provides mobile and desktop access for flexibility.

  • Key feature

    Has sub-folder level sharing to organize and share specific content.

  • Key feature

    Offers granular access controls to manage permissions precisely.

  • Key feature

    Provides password-protected links for secure sharing.

Zoho WorkDrive Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    Allows integration with Zoho Suite and other apps.

  • Advantage

    Allows delegating admin control at various levels to eliminate confusion.

  • Advantage

    Allows team members to work together in real-time.

  • Disadvantage

    The free storage space offered isn’t much, as it is considered to be an individual plan.

  • Disadvantage

    There is a 1GB upload limit.

Sync.com

Sync.com

Best for Sharing Files

Geekflare rating score 4.2 out of 5
4.2
|
  • Encryption
    AES 256-bit with TLS
  • Available Offline
    Only on Mobile
  • Customer Support
    Email
5 GB Free Storage
Try Sync.com

About Sync.com

Sync.com is a great cloud storage platform if your main concerns are file sharing and team collaboration. Its seamless workflow can ease your day-to-day file-sharing vows while securing all data transfers via its end-to-end encryption and HIPAA-compliant security protocols.

Your files are stored on Sync’s servers and accessible only to you. Plus, there is no limit to file sizes. One of Sync’s best collaborative features is that shared files take up the original user’s storage space, so subscribed employees can share large files with free account holders without taking up their quota.

Sync’s free plan comes with 5 GB storage capacity, but if you want to expand it, there’s a referral program. For each new account you refer using your unique code, you get 1 GB of extra space. Even though the rewards cap off at 20 GB, it’s still a great program.

Sync.com Features

  • Key feature

    Provides sharing and collaboration tools to work efficiently with your team.

  • Key feature

    Offers real-time backup and sync to keep your data current and safe.

  • Key feature

    Is accessible from multiple devices for your convenience.

  • Key feature

    Has unlimited data transfer to support your extensive data needs.

Sync.com Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    Users can upload files to a vault for undistributed backup

  • Advantage

    The advanced security features are significantly better than those of other cloud storage platforms.

  • Advantage

    File versioning is available as far back as 30 days.

  • Disadvantage

    The free plan does not include integration with Office 365.

  • Disadvantage

    There’s no preview mode in the free plan.

  • Disadvantage

    The storage limit is 5 GB and 3 links per month only.

Box

Box

Best for e-Signature Features

Geekflare rating score 4.2 out of 5
4.2
|
  • Encryption
    256-bit AES
  • Available Offline
    Per Machine Basis
  • Customer Support
    Phone
10 GB Free Storage
Try Box

About Box

Box is a business-forward cloud storage platform that supports powerful integrations and software package add-ons. It has an extensive admin console from which you can quickly switch to any app, such as Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Google Workspace.

Box makes admin work extremely simple. It saves every user action, such as logging in, opening a file, sharing data, or installing or updating the app. This way, employers can ensure transparency and accountability within the organization. Freelancers and individuals also benefit from this feature, as they can keep track of all their actions.

Box provides 10 GB as part of their free plan. It’s quite generous when it comes to free space, and there is no limit to the number of devices you can use it from, so your work is accessible from anywhere.

Box Features

  • Key feature

    Provides secure file sharing to ensure your data is protected.

  • Key feature

    Offers 2-factor authentication for enhanced security.

  • Key feature

    Has built-in integrations with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace.

  • Key feature

    Offers an integrated desktop experience for seamless workflow.

Box Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    It provides a full version history of files and actions.

  • Advantage

    The free versions have many integrations, such as Microsoft Office and Slack.

  • Advantage

    Allows real-time editing and commenting on documents.

  • Disadvantage

    Being a personal plan, it does not provide custom branding or document watermarking.

  • Disadvantage

    The free version does not come with data loss protection.

OneDrive

OneDrive

Best for Microsoft 365 Integration

Geekflare rating score 4.5 out of 5
4.5
|
  • Encryption
    AES256 key
  • Available Offline
    Yes
  • Customer Support
    Chat (only for paid users)
5 GB Free Storage
Try OneDrive

About OneDrive

OneDrive by Microsoft provides a centralized space for all your files while providing integration options with the Microsoft ecosystem, including Windows. It’s the default app for computers using Windows 10 or above, so Windows users should have plenty of familiarity.

OneDrive’s feature-rich cloud storage platform makes it ideal for business and personal use. You get cross-platform functionality, picture management, folder organization, GDPR and ISO standards compliance, and data password protection via a PIN, biometric, or OTP. Plus, if a file is corrupted, you can easily restore its previous version if it was on the server as far back as 30 days.

OneDrive allows you to back up your data so you don’t lose important files. Even if you don’t remember, scheduled backups ensure your data is secure in case of any human or technical issue.

OneDrive Features

  • Key feature

    Provides ransomware protection for files and photos.

  • Key feature

    Offers online photo presentation and management tools.

  • Key feature

    Has file sharing and collaborative editing capabilities.

OneDrive Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    It performs automatic backups.

  • Advantage

    The free plan comes with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

  • Advantage

    Allows accessing files from anywhere.

  • Disadvantage

    Microsoft Defender is not provided.

  • Disadvantage

    For an Ad-free Outlook experience, users need to subscribe to a paid version.

Koofr

Koofr

Best for Keeping Data in Europe

Geekflare rating score 4.8 out of 5
4.8
|
  • Encryption
    SSL, TLS
  • Available Online
    Only on Android
  • Customer Support
    Form, Community
10 GB Free Storage
Try Koofr

About Koofr

Koofr is a European cloud storage platform that respects your privacy by not adding trackers to your data. If you are a European or a company based in the continent or wish to store data β€˜in’ Europe, you should opt for their reliable service. It is a secure platform that works well across all linked devices through browsers, desktop apps (Windows, Mac, Linux), and mobile apps (Android or iOS).

Koofr securely stores your files in one place. It provides seamless integration with many third-party apps but works best with Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox. Through Koofr’s unified access, you can view and edit all your files on these linked cloud services. However, it does not support file sync or transfer among the different platforms.

Since you can access OneDrive, DropBox, and Google Drive through a single Koofr account, you get 32 GB of space on the same app. However, barring that, Koofr provides 10 GB for free.

Koofr Features

  • Key feature

    Provides automatic mobile media backup to keep your photos and videos safe.

  • Key feature

    Offers two-way synchronization for seamless file updates across devices.

  • Key feature

    Has file versioning to track and restore previous versions of your documents.

  • Key feature

    Offers private sharing with up to 10 users for secure collaboration.

  • Key feature

    Provides a 50 GB daily public sharing transfer limit to meet your sharing needs.

  • Key feature

    Has a ‘Save to Koofr’ browser extension/add-on for easy file saving.

Koofr Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    Does not track or scan your files, making it the EU’s safest cloud storage.

  • Advantage

    Gives you access from every device and location.

  • Advantage

    Gives you the option to share expiring or protected files.

  • Disadvantage

    The free forever version comes with only 1 Koofr Vault Safe Box.

  • Disadvantage

    Limited to only 2 external cloud connections.

Dropbox

Dropbox

Best for Document Collaboration

Geekflare rating score 4.5 out of 5
4.5
|
  • Encryption
    256-bit (AES)
  • Available Offline
    Yes
  • Customer Support
    Chat, Email, Phone
2 GB Free Storage
Try Dropbox

About Dropbox

Dropbox is a well-known cloud storage app that supports third-party integrations, automated backup, and cross-platform functionality. It is also an excellent file-syncing app that allows you to move your data to digital storage in the easiest manner.

While many other cloud storage platforms offer these features, Dropbox stands out with its unparalleled collaboration possibilities. You can share files conveniently with people using a simple link, which also works for audio and video files. This simplified approach to file sharing is what makes it a great collaborative cloud storage platform.

Dropbox integrates with cloud computing systems without compromising speed or accuracy. Once synchronization is established with your current system, the workflow is seamless. You can keep track of your files, including each modified version, without hassle. You can also arrange files in numerous folders and sub-folders and utilize the search feature to find data you forgot existed.

Dropbox Features

  • Key feature

    Provides access to files from multiple devices for convenience and flexibility.

  • Key feature

    Offers file sync and automatic backups to keep your data secure and up-to-date.

  • Key feature

    Has file version history to track changes and revert to previous versions.

  • Key feature

    Provides file recovery from the past 30 days to restore lost or deleted files.

  • Key feature

    Offers sharing and collaboration tools to work effectively with others.

Dropbox Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    Every file is backed up once it is uploaded.

  • Advantage

    Connects with up to 3 devices.

  • Advantage

    Backed by strong security protocols.

  • Disadvantage

    The free storage space is limited to 2 GB.

  • Disadvantage

    Does not provide PDF editing.

iCloud Drive

iCloud Drive

Best for Apple Devices

Geekflare rating score 4.2 out of 5
4.2
|
  • Encryption
    End-to-end
  • Available Offline
    Yes
  • Customer Support
    Phone, Chat
5 GB Free Storage
Try iCloud Drive

About iCloud Drive

iCloud Drive is Apple’s official cloud storage app, and it follows the footsteps of its company by taking the security of users very seriously. It only syncs within the iOS ecosystem to tackle security breaches through connectivity with foreign devices.

iCloud is deeply integrated with macOS and iOS, like OneDrive with Windows. The interface is clean and sophisticated, true to its brand. Apple users will find the dashboard easy and familiar to navigate.

iCloud Drive lacks advanced management features, but it works exceptionally well when backing up files. If you are looking for a simple cloud storage platform for iOS and macOS, this will fulfill your requirements.

iCloud Drive Features

  • Key feature

    Provides automatic file sync and backup to keep your data safe and current.

  • Key feature

    Connects with the entire Apple ecosystem for seamless integration.

  • Key feature

    Ensures files are encrypted both in transit and at rest for maximum security.

  • Key feature

    Maintains a file version history to track and restore previous versions of your files.

iCloud Drive Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    Incredibly secure and hard to break into

  • Advantage

    It offers simple features that eliminate overwhelm

  • Advantage

    File sharing between Apple users is fast and smooth

  • Disadvantage

    Only paid users get access to the privacy features.

  • Disadvantage

    It does not support Android or Linux and offers limited support for Windows.

MediaFire

MediaFire

Best for Quick File Sharing

Geekflare rating score 4.2 out of 5
4.2
|
  • Encryption
    Not specified
  • Available Offline
    Only on Mobile app
  • Customer Support
    Email
10 GB Free Storage
Try MediaFire

About MediaFire

MediaFire is a cloud storage platform with several advantages. You can upload files up to 20 GB, filter your data, generate shareable links to send via email or social media, and even upload directly from your smartphone.

With a simple interface, MediaFire allows users to upload, store, and access their files from anywhere at any time. The free version gives 10 GB of storage space, making it perfect for photos, documents, and smaller media files. Its integration with popular apps can also improve workflow and enable quick file transfers between different platforms.

While the free version of MediaFire doesn’t include features like priority support or ad-free experience, it remains an excellent choice for basic cloud storage needs.

MediaFire Features

  • Key feature

    Provides unlimited bandwidth and download for unrestricted access.

  • Key feature

    Offers one-time links for sensitive files to enhance security.

  • Key feature

    Allows multiple uploads at once to save time and increase efficiency.

  • Key feature

    Gives control over access to all files for improved security management.

  • Key feature

    Ensures seamless file organization for easy navigation and management.

MediaFire Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    It offers 10 GB of free storage, which should be enough for basic uses.

  • Advantage

    It provides simple and effective file-sharing options.

  • Advantage

    It supports integration with popular apps.

  • Disadvantage

    Bulk downloads are possible with the pro version only.

  • Disadvantage

    The free version is not ad-free.

Degoo

Degoo

Best for Massive Free Storage Tier

Geekflare rating score 3.8 out of 5
3.8
|
  • Encryption
    Zero knowledge encryption
  • Available Offline
    Not specified
  • Customer Support
    Support Tickets
25 GB Free Storage
Try Degoo

About Degoo

Degoo is a consumer-oriented cloud storage platform with 25 million global users. The features are simple, making it ideal for personal use, primarily to backup photos. If you have a huge camera roll, you will benefit greatly from its generous free plan, as it clears up space on your device for essentials like contacts, apps, and documents.

Degoo lets you arrange your pictures in folders and subfolders for easy access. It’s like a private locker that can be opened solely with a password allotted to the owner. The code is not saved by Degoo but rather ciphered into smaller bits to be sent to various data centers globally, guaranteeing 100% NSA compliance.

One of the only downsides to Degoo is that it displays ads even if you’re a premium member.

Degoo Features

  • Key feature

    Provides automatic backups to safeguard your data continuously.

  • Key feature

    Offers cross-device sync to access files from anywhere for ultimate convenience.

  • Key feature

    Enables sharing of files and folders with others via links for easy collaboration.

  • Key feature

    Uses AES-256 encryption both during transfer and while stored on their servers for robust security.

  • Key feature

    Implements unique passphrase encryption for an added layer of protection.

Degoo Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    It provides 20 GB free storage + 5 GB bonus for signing up.

  • Advantage

    Backs up and restores your data swiftly.

  • Advantage

    Collect only small and limited amounts of data.

  • Disadvantage

    Does not provide access to the web app.

  • Disadvantage

    Users need to upgrade to the paid version to go ad-free.

pCloud

pCloud

Best for Small Businesses

Geekflare rating score 4.2 out of 5
4.2
|
  • Encryption
    4096-bit RSA, 256-bit AES
  • Available Offline
    Yes
  • Customer Support
    Email, Form
10 GB Free Storage
Try pCloud

About pCloud

pCloud has a bunch of capabilities that’ll elevate your cloud storage experience. It has zero restrictions in terms of upload and download limits for files. You can upload any file type regardless of size without worrying about speed. It uses block-level sync to upload large files in seconds.

pCloud provides two levels of security: AES 256-bit encryption and zero-knowledge proof. The latter requires an additional fee, but the security is pretty solid even without that. Its compact and formidable capabilities make it a great cloud storage platform. It’s secure, fast, and supports all types of files.

pCloud Features

  • Key feature

    Facilitates collaboration using shared links, file requests, invitations, and more for efficient teamwork.

  • Key feature

    Utilizes 256-bit AES encryption for all files to ensure top-notch security.

  • Key feature

    Offers backups from other cloud storage platforms for consolidated data management.

  • Key feature

    Includes a built-in video player for video streaming to enhance media accessibility.

  • Key feature

    Has file versioning to keep track of document changes and revisions.

pCloud Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    pCloud’s β€˜save’ extension can be added to your browser to save pictures to your cloud account directly.

  • Advantage

    Provides up to 10 GB of free storage.

  • Advantage

    Allows access across all devices.

  • Disadvantage

    Users who want an extra layer of encryption must purchase it as an additional paid service.

  • Disadvantage

    The free account provides storage space for an individual user.

Icedrive

Icedrive

Best for Twofish Encryption

Geekflare rating score 4.5 out of 5
4.5
|
  • Encryption
    256-bit key, Two-fish
  • Available Offline
    Only on Mobile App
  • Customer Support
    Support Tickets
10 GB Free Storage
Try Icedrive

About Icedrive

Icedrive’s cloud storage platform was launched fairly recently but is already making waves with strict security measures and a 10 GB free plan. It’s constantly rolling out new updates for improved performance.

This cloud storage platform has a straightforward dashboard with all the productivity tools at the forefront. Most clouds allow you to restore a 30-day-old version of your file, but Icedrive takes it up a notch to include versions as far back as 180 days. You can also let it upload media from your mobile automatically.

Icedrive follows Twofish protocol for security, making it one of the most secure cloud storage systems. It’s available via browser, phone, and desktop, syncing all your devices to access your uploaded files anytime, anywhere.

Icedrive Features

  • Key feature

    Facilitates collaboration using file sharing, public links, and file requests for seamless teamwork.

  • Key feature

    Allows control over access to shared files via password protection for enhanced security.

  • Key feature

    Supports multiple devices to ensure accessibility from anywhere.

  • Key feature

    Offers a timeout option for sensitive files to protect your data with automatic expiration.

Icedrive Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    It has an excellent upload speed.

  • Advantage

    You can restore old file versions up to 10 times.

  • Advantage

    It’s compliant with GDPR and UK laws.

  • Disadvantage

    The free version does not have client-side encryption.

  • Disadvantage

    The monthly bandwidth is capped at 50GB.

MEGA

MEGA

Best for Large Free Storage Allowance

Geekflare rating score 4.5 out of 5
4.5
|
  • Encryption
    Zero-knowledge encryption
  • Available Offline
    Yes
  • Customer Support
    Email
20 GB Free Storage
Try MEGA

About MEGA

MEGA’s cloud storage app is loaded with features. You can upload files without a hitch, share encrypted folders, links, or media, and set expiration dates for complete control over access. You can also preview documents, listen to audio files, and chat through an integrated secure chat platform – MegaChat.

MEGA emphasizes its security protocol, which is evident through its end-to-end encryption and cybersecurity law compliance. It extends zero-knowledge encryption to both paid and free users. If you ever forget your password, the account can be unlocked only by a recovery key, extending its security protocols.

Since MEGA is spread out in European Union countries, it complies with GDPR laws. If you need security, storage capacity, and easy navigation, look no further than this.

MEGA Features

  • Key feature

    Provides various browser extensions to enhance your browsing experience.

  • Key feature

    Offers accessibility from multiple devices for convenience and flexibility.

  • Key feature

    Ensures end-to-end data encryption with AES-128 and TLS for robust security.

  • Key feature

    Syncs across all your devices and browsers to keep your data up-to-date everywhere.

  • Key feature

    Includes administrative reports and analysis for better management and insights.

  • Key feature

    Has file versioning to track and restore previous versions of your files.

MEGA Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    A generous 20 GB free storage option.

  • Advantage

    It has a sleek interface with easy navigation.

  • Advantage

    It has an elite security protocol that encrypts every activity.

  • Disadvantage

    The free plan has limits on transfers.

  • Disadvantage

    MEGA VPN does not come with the free plan.

Internxt

Internxt

Best for Decentralized Storage Focus

Geekflare rating score 3.8 out of 5
3.8
|
  • Encryption
    Zero-knowledge encryption
  • Available Offline
    Not specified
  • Customer Support
    Email
1 GB Free Storage
Try Internxt

About Internxt

Internxt is a solid cloud storage platform with simple yet useful features. You can upload media to the app, and it will sync across all linked devices. Then, you can securely access and share it.

Internxt knocks the ball out of the park when it comes to security. It follows stringent protocols when it comes to user privacy. Every account is end-to-end encrypted, even the free ones. A quick look at its privacy policy clearly states that it does not share the metadata collected at the time of sign-up. The user information is hosted on Internxt’s decentralized network to ensure nobody except the owner can retrieve the data. In fact, their cloud storage keeps your files safe, even if your device gets stolen or hacked.

Besides being a convenient cloud storage service, Internxt gives you complete control over your data with zero-knowledge, military-grade encryption. It uses open-source code, which allows independent verification of its security practices.

Internxt Features

  • Key feature

    Provides encrypted file and folder sharing for secure data transmission.

  • Key feature

    Offers a password-protect option to enhance the security of shared files.

  • Key feature

    Allows access from multiple devices for greater flexibility.

  • Key feature

    Supports uploading files up to 20GB to accommodate large data transfers.

  • Key feature

    Has two-factor authentication (2FA) for additional account security.

Internxt Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    It is open-source and regularly audited.

  • Advantage

    It puts an incredible amount of emphasis on security.

  • Advantage

    It syncs data across devices quickly.

  • Disadvantage

    The storage space offered to free users is limited.

  • Disadvantage

    There are better security options with paid plans.

NordLocker

NordLocker

Best for Advanced Encryption Features

Geekflare rating score 4.0 out of 5
4.0
|
  • Encryption
    AES-256, xChaCha20-Poly1305, Ed25519
  • Available Offline
    Yes
  • Customer Support
    Email
3 GB Free Storage
Try NordLocker

About NordLocker

NordLocker is a cloud storage app known for its secure encryption features. It has a clean interface with tools to edit your files without glitches. Especially with the latest updates, the interface has improved considerably.

NordLocker supports easy file sharing, allowing you to send encrypted files securely to others. This feature is particularly useful for sharing sensitive information while maintaining privacy. The link-sharing capabilities are also commendable. When you share a link, a code is generated for the guest user to access the file, preventing unauthorized access.

Additionally, NordLocker’s integration with both Windows and macOS enhances its usability, providing a smooth experience across different devices.

NordLocker Features

  • Key feature

    Provides unlimited end-to-end encryption for maximum security.

  • Key feature

    Syncs files across devices to keep your data consistent everywhere.

  • Key feature

    Ensures neat organization of files for easy management and access.

  • Key feature

    Offers a file drag and drop option for convenient uploading.

  • Key feature

    Has secure backups to protect your data from loss.

NordLocker Pros/Cons

  • Advantage

    It provides unlimited encryption for files.

  • Advantage

    It supports all file sizes and types with no lag in synchronization speed.

  • Advantage

    It levels up your security with the option of multi-factor authentication (MFA).

  • Disadvantage

    The free version does not come with secure file sharing.

  • Disadvantage

    The free storage amount is limited to 3GB, which is quite low.

Best Cloud Storage Platforms Comparison

The best cloud storage platforms based on pricing, storage, encrpytion, and additional features have been compared in the table below.

Cloud Storage Platform
Pricing (monthly)
Storage (GB)
Encryption
Additional Features
Explore
Google Drive

Google Drive

4.5
/5
$12
15
AES256
In-built security, cloud-native collaboration tools, integration capabilities.
Zoho WorkDrive

Zoho WorkDrive

4.2
/5
$2.50
5
256-bit AES
Collaboration tools, thousands of integrations
Sync.com

Sync.com

4.2
/5
$8
5
AES 256-bit with TLS
Real-time backups, custom file portal for branded file sharing

Box

Box

4.2
/5
$10
10
256-bit AES
Powerful e-signatures, AI-powered content management
OneDrive

OneDrive

4.5
/5
$1.99
5
AES256 key
Integration with Microsoft Office, personal vault
Koofr

Koofr

4.8
/5
€0.5
10
SSL, TLS
Security without tracking, easy access across devices
Dropbox

Dropbox

4.5
/5
$9.99
2
256-bit (AES)
Smart sync, various collaboration tools
iCloud Drive

iCloud Drive

4.2
/5
$0.99
5
End-to-end
Integration with Apple ecosystem, easy access via web and app
MediaFire

MediaFire

4.2
/5
$5.83
10
Not specified
Download with no wait times, file organization
Degoo

Degoo

3.8
/5
Β£2.39
25
Zero knowledge encryption
Auto upload of photos, supports up to 3 devices
pCloud

pCloud

4.2
/5
€4.99
10
4096-bit RSA, 256-bit AES
Full-featured GUI, advanced browser upload, document conversion
Icedrive

Icedrive

4.5
/5
$2.99
10
256-bit key
Full featured GUI, advanced browser upload, document conversion
MEGA

MEGA

4.5
/5
$10.80
20
Zero-knowledge encryption
Secure video calls, private messaging, meetings
Internxt

Internxt

3.8
/5
$1.10
1
Zero-knowledge encryption
Available on all platforms, military-grade encryption
NordLocker

NordLocker

4.0
/5
$2.99
3
AES-256, xChaCha20-Poly1305, Ed25519
Quick syncing across devices, drag and drop file encryption

What is a Cloud Storage?

A cloud storage is a secure server where users can store, share, and manage their data digitally. The data is accessible as long as there’s an active internet connection. As long as you choose one of the top cloud storage software, you’ll get a scalable and cost-effective solution compared to traditional devices like hard disks that store data locally. 

Why Use Free Cloud Storage?

Free cloud storage enables users to store their data without spending any money. It’s ideal for people who want to store small files and access them from anywhere while reducing the need for physical storage devices. A free plan also helps you decide whether to invest in a paid subscription. 

Can Free Cloud Storage be Used as a Backup?

Yes, storing data digitally helps create a backup for sensitive information. If a local storage device fails, the information it contains is lost forever, but the data is saved in more than one location on cloud storage. A copy is stored offsite beside the main server and can be easily retrieved in case of system failure or human error.

Who Uses Free Cloud Storage?

Most cloud storage providers offer a free plan with limited storage space that people with small needs can benefit from. Ideally, everyone can use free cloud storage, but it is best suited for individuals or teams that need to save, manage, and share files and a limited amount of data securely without investment.

Also, if you already have a paid cloud storage platform subscription, you can use a free one to supplement it. This is exactly what many people do, according to a survey by Goodfirms[1].

What are the Disadvantages of Free Cloud Storage?

There are 4 disadvantages of a free cloud storage subscription, as listed below.

  1. Limited amount of space, ranging between 1-20 GB, which is not enough to store all your data
  2. It lacks advanced management features
  3. Free plans without strong security are at a risk of losing data
  4. It lacks priority support, which can be crucial for when you’ve encountered a problem

What can you do with the Free Cloud Storage?

Free cloud storage is ideal for storing and backing up data like pictures, audio files, videos, documents, and, more importantly, critical information that needs privacy protection. While it’s not suitable for large amounts of data, it does the job pretty well if you just want a minimal storage capacity.

What is the Average Capacity of Free Cloud Storage?

The average free cloud storage capacity is about 10 GB, but the plans vary. For example, Box and Koofr provide 10 GB of free space, iCloud and OneDrive offer only 5 GB, and Google Drive offers a generous 15 GB of space. MEGA and Degoo offer the maximum free account storage space of 20 GB.

Is there a Free Unlimited Cloud Storage?

Sadly, all platforms charge a fee for more storage capacity. However, some platforms offer a generous free plan, and many others offer affordable prices.

What is the Difference Between Cloud Storage and Object Storage?

Cloud storage refers to storing data in a remote location, while object storage is a way of storing unstructured data by sectioning it into sections called β€˜objects’. This approach is best for large volumes of data, including web pages, audio files, documents, and pictures. As a matter of fact, object storage is a type of cloud storage. 

When dealing with large volumes of data, it is better to use the top object storage for your applications and data as when it comes to free versions, there are always limitations as is the case for the free plans of these cloud storage platforms too.

References
  1. Personal Cloud Storage Uses and Trends from GoodFirms

More About Cloud Storage