Dropbox vs. OneDrive - comparison of cloud providers

The cloud providers Dropbox and OneDrive basically offer the same thing. In our practical tip, we compare the two and show you how the cloud storage still differs.

Dropbox vs. OneDrive: design and features

• Dropbox works like the usual desktop system: You can create folders and subfolders, share files and folders with others and synchronize individual folders with your computer.
• OneDrive also relies on the folder structure. The advantage for Windows users: OneDrive is integrated in Windows 8 as a virtual hard disk. The service is also permanently linked to Office 365.
• Special feature of Dropbox: If you upload files that are already in the cloud in a slightly changed form, Dropbox recognizes this and only saves the changes. So you can quickly change and upload even large files.
• If you have an Outlook, Live or Hotmail account, you can use it to sign in to OneDrive and get started.

Dropbox vs. OneDrive: Free storage and prices

With both cloud providers, you have limited space for your files with free registration. If you need more storage, you can buy an upgrade:

• Dropbox was one of the first cloud services. Since then, this provider has had a meager 2 GB of free storage.
• Microsoft's OneDrive service, founded as SkyDrive, offers significantly more storage: 15 GB is free.
• With Dropbox, the upgrade to Dropbox Pro with 1000 GB costs 9.99 euros per month.
• OneDrive is cheaper: 100 GB cost 1.99 euros a month. For 3.99 euros you get 200 GB and 1000 GB cost 7 euros per month.
• Good offer: If you choose the large OndeDrive subscription for 7 euros, you will receive Office 365.

Dropbox vs. OneDrive: Apps and desktop versions

Both cloud storage provide free apps and desktop applications:

• Dropbox has apps for iOS and Android. An official Dropbox app has recently been released for Windows Phone.
• Microsoft also covers all mobile systems: There are OneDrive apps for Android, iOS and Windows Phone.
• Dropbox also offers desktop applications for the computer: on Mac, Windows and Linux, you can easily integrate the service into your system.
• The OneDrive application is already integrated in Windows 8, but there are also versions for older Windows systems and for the Mac.

Dropbox vs. OneDrive: conclusion

The two cloud services differ only slightly. Both providers have their advantages:

• If you use Windows 8, OneDrive is integrated directly into your system, which makes it very easy to use. Your Office 365 files are also synchronized automatically. Therefore OneDrive is recommended to everyone who wants to network their Microsoft products.
• Dropbox has been the first clound provider. The service is widespread and the ability to share files is very well implemented here. Dropbox is therefore very suitable if you not only need the cloud for yourself but also want to make files available to a work group or your family, for example.
• The difference between the two providers is primarily in the price: Dropbox offers little free storage and a comparatively expensive update. With OneDrive you benefit from a whopping 15 GB and inexpensive upgrade options.