Reports, minutes of meetings, proposals. Without a centralized suite to archive, organize, and retrieve them, your company is in a mayhem. Employees will waste valuable time scrambling through emails, local folders, or scattered drives. Worst of all, they could only find outdated or incorrect documentation.
Collaboration suffers. Accountability fades. Miscommunication becomes inevitable.
That’s a nightmare companies don’t want to dream of. Fortunately, the best cloud storage apps are here to save you.
And no, I’m not here to recommend some generic tools. I’ve put different products on the market to the test. I compared all the factors: ease of use, integration with existing workflows, and cost. I even asked my co-workers to chime in and share their honest feedback.
Now, I’m confident I’ve found the right solution. Here are the best cloud storage apps I’d happily vouch for.
The best cloud storage apps
In a rush? Here’s a quick glance at the best cloud storage apps. Or, feel free to explore the detailed review for each option below.
1. Google Drive: the best cloud storage app for personal use.
2. Dropbox Business: the best cloud storage app for team collaboration.
3. Box: the best cloud storage app for creative agencies.
4. Mega: the best cloud storage app for data privacy.
5. Microsoft OneDrive: the best cloud storage app for Microsoft users.
6. iCloud: the best cloud storage app for Apple users.
7. Nextcloud: the best cloud storage app for complete data control.
8. pCloud: the best cloud storage app for lifetime plans.
What makes a good cloud storage app?
Picture yourself working on a business proposal one that could secure a top-dollar deal. The deadline is closing in, and all of a sudden, you can’t type another word into the document. Turns out, your cloud storage quota has been exceeded.
The problem seems simple, for sure, but the aftermath? Your bottom line takes a hit.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. Cloud storage apps offer scalable storage at competitive monthly or yearly rates compared to buying physical drives.
That’s not the only issue that cloud storage apps can solve, though. From accessibility to collaborative file sharing, they cover much more than just additional memory space:
1. Reliable backups. No matter how much you try to grasp control, accidents happen: files get corrupted and devices crash or get stolen. Backups will save your data permanently.
2. File syncing. Misunderstanding can happen when people access different versions of a file. File syncing ensures every document is up-to-date. And when you edit the doc, either on your phone or PC, the changes will update across devices instantly.
3. Collaboration and file sharing. If it takes you hours to locate a document, cloud storage apps can cut that down to minutes or even seconds. Simply type in the name of the file in the search bar, and you’ll instantly find what you need.
4. Privacy features. Don’t want your boss to sneak in when your reports aren’t ready? Cloud storage apps will preserve your privacy. Set permissions to decide who can and can’t access, when, and for how long.
5. Security features. Of course, you don’t want to store your PIN codes in the cloud. But when it comes to crucial, sensitive, and private documents, storage apps are your best bet.
6. Pricing. Rather than purchasing floppy disks, USB drives, or external storage for a hundred team members, a cloud storage app is the most economical solution.
7. App integrations. Let’s face it: your PC is not an ideal file retriever. Oftentimes, your files get buried under countless downloads, folders, or duplicate versions of documents. A cloud storage app can fix this. Seamlessly connect your Microsoft 365 account to the file management platform of your choice.
Our top picks for the best cloud storage apps
Best cloud storage app for personal use
1. Google Drive
Google Drive remains an undisputed choice, since it’s the cloud storage app that most people are familiar with. And for a good reason. It’s intuitive to set up — just sign up with your Gmail, and that’s it. Not to mention, you get instant access to 15GB worth of storage. That’s equal to approximately 30,000–75,000 documents depending on file size.
Most people stick with Google Drive thanks to its collaborative suite of tools. Team members can view, comment on, and edit documents in real time. No more endless email threads or constant WhatsApp follow-ups, as everyone can work on the same centralized file.
This editing functionality also extends to Google Slides and Google Sheets. Whether you’re crafting a deck or crunching numbers, your team will stay in sync.
I especially like Google Drive because of its ease of use, and most of my co-workers agree. Even the senior team members are able to onboard themselves quickly. The layout is minimalistic with a clean white background. Only the buttons are subtly colored. Every element is where it should be, so you know exactly where to click.
Best of all, Google Drive is compatible with most devices. If you’re on the move and your boss suddenly rings for a quick fix in a presentation, instantly make changes on your phone. Or if you are remote working, virtually meet face-to-face with your teammates via Google Meet and share files on the spot.
Pricing: Free for the first 15GB storage; Starter and Standard plans cost $4.2 and $9.8/user/month, respectively; Plus and Enterprise offer up to 5 TB of space that starts from $22 to $35/user/month.
Security:
- Client-side encryption.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Google Vault (an enterprise archiving tool).
- Zero-trust security features.
- AI classification for sensitive content (available only in specific Google Workspace Enterprise plans).
Pros
- Unified collaboration within the Google Workspace ecosystem.
- Customizable file permissions.
- Automatic file syncing for Windows and macOS desktops.
- Highly competitive pricing.
Cons
- Dependency on the internet connection to access files.
- Difficulty uploading or transferring large files.
Best cloud storage for team collaboration
2. Dropbox Business
Dropbox is another well-known name in the cloud storage field. Before Google Drive became the norm, people used Dropbox to upload files, videos, and even music. Some still prefer to use the program until now.
But Dropbox has far evolved from a simple file management tool. Dropbox Business provides a streamlined digital workspace that brings everyone together. It’s the go-to choice for teams who want to collaborate in a zen environment while focusing on delivering outputs ASAP.
In one go, you can pull up PDFs, edit them on the fly, and seal the deal with your eSignature. And what if you’re dealing with large files? No problem. Dropbox handles them as smoothly as small files. There’s barely any lag, and before you know it, the file already arrives next door. Well, more precisely, on your teammate’s screen.
Dropbox is also the global standard for remote teams. It is GDPR and HIPAA compliant. Whether your file is accessed in the Netherlands or Mozambique, any data inside stays safe.
And I haven’t even brought up the Replay function. My creative team won’t stop talking about it. It’s integrated with Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and other video editing software (although it requires separate integration or plugin setup depending on editing suite). From file sharing to real-time feedback, everything works without the usual hassle. Managing projects across different versions becomes as easy as dropping a box.
Pricing: $15/user/month to $24/user/month if billed yearly; $18/user/month to $30/user/month if billed monthly.
Security:
- Two-factor authentication.
- Client-side encrypted password manager.
- 256-bit AES and SSL/TLS encryption.
- Vulnerability testing.
- Enterprise detection and response capabilities.
Pros
- Tiered file permissions across apps and content with embedded AI-powered search.
- Uninterrupted large file transfers.
- Reclaim.AI integration to schedule meetings, tasks, and breaks with AI.
- Automatic backup with easy file restoration.
- Deep integrations with Teams and Slack.
Cons
- Higher-end on the pricing side.
- No free plans for Dropbox Business (but a 2 GB free personal plan is available)
- Recent data breach concerns..
Best cloud storage for creative agencies
3. Box
There’s beauty in the chaotic work of creative teams. Nevertheless, Box aims to make your workflow simple, just like the software’s name.
More specifically, Box is an intelligent content management tool. The emphasis on “intelligent” means that AI is deeply woven into its core features, far more than what other tools on this list offer.
It’s no surprise that AI-driven companies like Airbnb and AstraZeneca, along with a couple of my AI enthusiast co-workers, are big fans of Box. Its AI system integrates with models from providers like OpenAI and others.
Box AI accelerates your productivity in multiple ways. When you’re creating content, conducting in-depth analysis, or approving contracts, AI will help you with real-time summaries, smart insights, and automated workflows.
This cloud storage app can further unleash productivity in creative teams. There have been growing concerns over copyright infringement and intellectual property theft. Box helps protect your ideas, designs, creative assets, and everything in between. It also complies with GPR, HIPAA, and FINRA.
Box also proves to be popular among HRs, based on my internal testing. From contract creation to finalization, the entire flow is a breeze. As a cherry on top, you get unlimited eSignatures without paying extra. However, note that the availability depends on your current location and plan tier.
Pricing: Free for the first 10GB; Pro and Business plans for individuals and teams range from $8 to $16/user/month; Business and Enterprise subscriptions cost $24 to $54/user/month; add-ons for APIs available.
Security:
- Multi-factor authentication and SSO user authentication.
- CASB and SIEM reporting.
- Ransomware detection.
- FIPS 140-2 certified.
- AES 265-bit encryption.
- Microsoft Information Protection (MIP) integration.
Pros:
- AI-native APIs for additional user and agentic interactions.
- Compatibility with 1,500+ tools, including Google Workspace, Salesforce, Zoom, Slack, Oracle Netsuite, and Amazon Web Services.
- AI-powered content portals with personalized business branding.
- OCR for automated data extraction and auto-filling.
- Intelligent workflows that unify Box Forms, Box Doc Gen, Box Sign, and Box Relay.
- IT and admin console for full visibility and mitigation.
Cons:
- Not ideal for teams who desire independence from AI.
- Some features come with a learning curve.
- Overkill functionality that not everyone needs.
Best cloud storage app for data privacy
4. MEGA
Data leaks happen in the most bizarre fashion, and no company wants to fall victim to that. What if I tell you there’s a cloud storage solution specializing in this?
Enter MEGA. It brings important work stuff like chats, meetings, and file sharing in one place. Most importantly, it brings privacy front and center.
MEGA employs one of the highest levels of online security with its zero-knowledge encryption. Practically, a hacker won’t be able to read your data, since it’ll appear as gibberish — let alone touch and do something with it. Only the sender and the recipient hold the exclusive keys to read, see, and listen to the data.
When I introduced MEGA to my coworkers, it immediately became a hit among those storing large and complex media files. It offers one of the highest storage spaces in the market, up to 16–20 TB, depending on bonuses and region. Some people even say that this will last them their lifetime.
But is MEGA ideal for long-term usage? I’d say yes, especially if you prioritize being in control over your data, files, and folders. You have the say in giving people read-only permission or full-control access. As a nice touch, MEGA lets you share your content and assets with anyone, even those without a MEGA account.
That said, most people have doubts about the safety of cloud storage apps for saving private credentials. Wait until you hear about MEGA Pass. For a dirt-cheap price of under $2, you get a premium password manager that’ll lock in your PayPal logins, crypto wallet addresses, or online bank passwords.
Pricing: Free for the first 20GB; Pro Plans start from Lite at €4.17/user/month to Pro III at €25.00/month for $20GB or storage; Mega Business starts from €15.00 for 3 users and will level up based on the number of users; VPN and Mega Pass services are available.
Security:
- MEGA decryption key.
- Password-protected attachments.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Ransomware threat detection.
- Open-source code for public audit.
Pros:
- Access to MEGA’s suite of tools, from MEGA Chat to MEGA VPN.
- Pain-free automated backups.
- Built-in camera uploads.
- One of the most affordable options.
- Generous free plan.
Cons:
- Limited integrations.
- Slow upload speeds.
- Less robust collaboration capabilities.
Best cloud storage app for Microsoft users
5. Microsoft OneDrive
If you’re a Windows user, did you know that there’s a native cloud storage app built right into the system? It’s like having extra space on top of your SSD and personal disk drive.
Sadly, not many people realized they had this bonus memory capacity lying around. If you’re reading this, well, now you know — and OneDrive is actually pretty easy to get around with. Simply search for the program, and when the pop-up appears, sign up with your Outlook email.
Once you have your OneDrive account on PC ready, you can also connect it to your Android or iOS mobile phone. That way, you’ll always have access to your images, videos, and files, no matter where you are.
Better yet, if you have a gaming hobby and champion work-life balance, you can save both your professional and Xbox backups in your OneDrive. There’s no need to juggle between different tools and platforms anymore.
I am a Windows user myself, along with my other peers, and all of us agree that OneDrive is a great backup solution. Prior to OneDrive, we always saved our documents and media assets across separate folders on our PC. Needless to say, it was pure chaos.
Files got missing when we needed them most. Meeting recordings got corrupted. Sure, Windows had a search function — but we still had to rummage through a mounting mess of files to find what we were looking for.
But once OneDrive was set up, file management, backups, and retrieval became harmonious. All of us could focus on work instead of wasting precious time tracking down a file copy. The addition of Microsoft Copilot, an all-in-one AI companion, further improved our workflow.
Pricing: Free for the first 5GB; OneDrive Business for $5/user/month; Microsoft 365 licenses (OneDrive included) start from $6/user/month.
Security:
- Encryption in transit
- Two-factor authentication
- Virus scanning
- Personal Vault to double-protect sensitive files
Pros:
- Game captures (clips and screenshots) can be saved to OneDrive
- Remote file and photo editing
- Embedded Microsoft Copilot with all Microsoft apps
- Smooth integration with Microsoft 365 (Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, etc)
Cons:
- Not as full-fledged as other tools on this list
- Limited storage size for the free plan
Best cloud storage app for Apple users
6. iCloud
Apple device users have probably used iCloud at some point, and I must say, it does its job as a cloud storage app.
Most people use iCloud for personal use. But if you’re provided with an iMac or Macbook at work, it’s time that you get the most out of your iCloud storage, free for the first 5GB.
And to be honest, if you have an iPhone, its memory capacity isn’t great (especially if you’re stuck with the base 64GB, hello old iPhone, or 128GB). Rather than sitting on the toilet trying to decide which precious photos or videos to delete, transfer them to iCloud, and your cherished memories stay intact.
At a glance, iCloud might seem too simple, but you always have the option to upgrade to iCloud+. It’s not just about additional cloud storage. It’s about protecting your privacy with features like Hide My Email, HomeKit Secure Video, and iCloud Private Relay — the very reason why people stick with Apple devices in the first place.
Pricing: Free for the first 5GB; Tiered plans are divided into 50GB, 200GB, 2TB, 6TB, and 12TB of storage; The pricing differs per country.
Security:
- Privacy surveillance features with iCloud+
- End-to-end encryption
- Two-factor authentication
- Encryption keys for private files
Pros:
- Backups for files of any type and size
- Compatibility with Windows
- Hassle-free integrations with the iOS operating system
- The “Find Device” feature to locate lost phones, tablets, laptops, or digital watches
- Budget-friendly additional storage offerings
Cons:
- Not Android-friendly
- Small memory space on the free plan
Best cloud storage app for complete data control
7. Nextcloud
With most cloud storage apps, you’re entrusting your data to a third party. Is it possible to retain full control? With Nextcloud, yes, it is. Though it requires some technical know-how. But if you’re into deploying self-hosted servers and all that jazz, you’re in for a ride.
The Nextcloud ecosystem hosts a variety of apps catering to different use cases. Nextcloud Talk is similar to Zoom, giving quick access to calls, notifications, chats, and screensharing.
Nextcloud File is a desktop client that keeps everything in sync between your server and computer. There are also integration apps that function like Chrome extensions. Right to your browser, add OpenAI to support decision-making, GIPHY to bring memes and GIFs into your professional chats, and more.
For teams, Nextcloud Enterprise is a one-stop shop. For your information, this specific service requires a paid subscription. It’s a full-stack collaboration hub designed for teamwork without security risks. It’s constantly updated with bug fixes and rigorous testing, so you always know you’re in good hands.
And it doesn’t matter where you use Nextcloud — on PC, mobile, while working at the office, or in a remote setting. Its performance constantly exceeds my expectations. It’s also optimized for work across diverse sectors, whether you’re in legal, education, or tech.
Pricing: Nextcloud File subscriptions begin with the Standard plan at €67.89/user/year for a team of 100 people; Nextcloud Talk only offers a Standard pricing tier for €40/user/year (for 100 team members) or €30/user/year (for 250 team members).
Security:
- ISO/IEC 27001-2013 certified.
- Industry-standard SQL databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL, and MariaDB).
- Built-in monitoring programs that can integrate with MDM, DLP, event logging, and backup tools.
- Brute force protection.
- Rate limiting.
- Content Security Policy 3.0.
Pros:
- One of the most secure cloud storage solutions.
- Open-source and self-hosted.
- Highly configurable based on your company's needs.
- Integrations with 100+ apps.
- HIPAA and GDPR compliant.
Cons:
- Requires technical skills to set up.
Best cloud storage app for lifetime plans
8. pCloud
If you’re a music director, a videographer, or a professional in a similar line of work, you’d probably be glad to come across pCloud. It’s one of the rare gems that has a built-in Music and Video Player that supports smooth playback of high-resolution videos. Nothing is stopping you from mastering your craft.
File-sharing is another area that pCloud doesn’t miss. For marketing or sales teams, branded shares help your products or services get the attention and love they deserve. Plus, with password-protected links, you can share highly-classified files with peace of mind.
pCloud is one of the few cloud storage solutions that offer a lifetime plan. As huge as 10 GB, in fact, with a 30-day trash history. A less-maintenance option for teams already stuck with a bunch of subscriptions.
Pricing: Monthly plans cost $4.99/month to $19.99/month; yearly plans cost $49.99/year to $199.99/year; lifetime plans cost $199 to $1,190
Security:
- TLS/SSL channel protection.
- Client-side encryption (only available with the pCloud Crypto add-on).
- ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 27001:2013 certified.
- Two-factor authentication.
- Extended file history.
- Highly secure data server location.
Pros:
- Shared folders for internal and external data management.
- Activity logs to track file changes and previous versions.
- Direct collaboration on files and folders.
- Group- and individual-based permissions.
- Fairly competitive pricing, especially the lifetime plan.
Cons:
- Occasional syncing issues.
Which cloud storage app should you choose?
Now you have all the cloud storage apps laid out on the table. Sure, they all seem like great options, so I understand the hardship of just picking one.
Nevertheless, I’ve done personal experimentations even gently pressured my peers to join me along the way. I’m well equipped with enough insights to recommend the following options, based on your team’s size and necessities:
- Small teams (1-10 people): Whether you’re working solo or in a tight-knit startup, Google Drive and MEGA are a good starting point with their expansive free storage.
- Medium teams (11-50 people): Growing companies will need better project coordination and user permissions, so I’d recommend Dropbox Business or Microsoft OneDrive. Box is especially ideal for marketing and creative teams.
- Large teams (100+ people): At this point, your enterprise will aim for scalability, compliance, and even customization with admin controls. Nextcloud Enterprise ticks all those boxes.
A better way to manage your data
Every employee has their dream work setup, but it all starts with clean and well-managed storage that won’t keep you up at night like a looming deadline.
However, not all cloud storage apps can integrate with the apps, tools, and programs that you have. That’s why most companies use Boltic. It’s a modern enterprise solution that’ll sync your data across Hubspot, Slack, devices, and the cloud.
Try out Boltic today. And see how it can transform your project, inventory, data management, and beyond.
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