Cloud storage has become a part of nearly everyone’s daily workflow — used to back up photos and share big files. While Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive are usually the default options, you may need more free space, better privacy, or want to get out of that ecosystem. This guide provides 7 excellent alternatives to try in 2025, including some of the best Google Cloud Storage alternatives. All of the following options include a free tier, good apps, and useful extras.
Identifying the best Google Cloud Storage alternatives will help you make informed decisions about your cloud storage needs.
For those exploring Google Cloud Storage alternatives, we present options that cater to various needs.
Top 7 Google Cloud Storage Alternatives
Many users now seek Google Cloud Storage alternatives for enhanced privacy and features.
Quick Comparison Table
| Service | Free Tier (approx.) | Privacy/Encryption | Why Pick It |
|---|---|---|---|
| pCloud | 10 GB | Encrypt-at-rest; optional client-side (pCloud Crypto) | Balanced usability + privacy; good all-rounder |
| Sync.com | 5 GB | Zero-knowledge by default | Best for privacy-first workflows |
| MEGA | 20 GB | Strong encryption | Generous free tier; good for large media |
| Tresorit | 3–5 GB | Enterprise-grade encryption | For sensitive documents & teams |
| Degoo | 100 GB (ad-supported) | Encrypted backup focus | Huge free space for backup use |
| Internxt | 10 GB | Client-side encryption by default | Privacy-centric, lightweight apps |
| Icedrive | 10 GB | Strong security; modern UI | Sleek experience + lifetime options |
a)Â pCloud
- Free tier:Â 10 GB
- Best for:Â Everyday users who want simple sync + optional client-side encryption
- Highlights:Â pCloud Crypto (paid), media streaming, virtual drive
Tip: If you regularly share media, pCloud’s playback and link controls are handy.
b)Â Sync.com
- Free tier:Â 5 GB
- Best for:Â Privacy-first users; zero-knowledge encryption by default
- Highlights:Â Link passwords, expiry dates, granular permissions
Note:Â Collaboration is solid, but previewing very large media in-browser can be slower than mainstream clouds.
c)Â MEGA
- Free tier:Â 20 GB
- Best for:Â Big free allowance; media sharing
- Highlights:Â Strong encryption, desktop & mobile apps
Tip:Â If speeds vary in your region, try off-peak hours or the desktop app for more reliable transfers.
d)Â Tresorit
- Free tier: 3–5 GB
- Best for:Â Legal, finance, or anyone handling sensitive docs
- Highlights:Â Enterprise-grade features, advanced access policies
Trade-off:Â Pricier than most, but top-tier security & compliance.
e)Â Degoo
- Free tier:Â 100 GB (ad-supported)
- Best for:Â Cloud backup rather than day-to-day sync
- Highlights:Â Enormous free storage for secondary backups
Trade-off:Â Ads and fewer collaboration features than pCloud/Sync.com.
f)Â Internxt
- Free tier:Â 10 GB
- Best for:Â Privacy-minded individuals; minimalist UI
- Highlights:Â Default client-side encryption; open-source ethos
Note: Newer service — great for personal files; test big-file performance in your region.
g)Â Icedrive
- Free tier:Â 10 GB
- Best for:Â Modern Dropbox-like experience + security
- Highlights:Â Clean UI, lifetime pricing tiers, media previews
How to choose (especially for India)
Consider these Google Cloud Storage alternatives to find the best fit for your requirements.
- More free storage:Â Try MEGA or Degoo first.
- Strongest privacy:Â Sync.com or Tresorit.
- Slick UI + easy sharing:Â pCloud or Icedrive.
- Test speed locally:Â Upload a 500MB file on mobile + broadband to see real-world performance.
Pro tips & best practices
- Enable 2-factor authentication on day one.
- Use client-side encryption for sensitive docs.
- Turn on file versioning to undo accidental overwrites.
- Mix services to stack free space (e.g., photos on MEGA, docs on Sync.com).
- Keep a local offline backup — cloud is not a substitute for redundancy.
What to look for in an alternative
- Free tier & upgrade price:Â How much do you get for free, and what are paid plans like?
- Privacy & encryption:Â Zero-knowledge client-side encryption is ideal for sensitive files.
- Apps & sync:Â Windows, macOS, Android, iOS; selective sync, file versioning, sharing controls.
- Speed & region: Performance from India can vary — always test uploads/downloads.
- Extras:Â Collaboration, media previews, backup vs sync, lifetime plans, etc.
Recommended reads on TechyCoder
For further insights, check out our guide on Google Cloud Storage alternatives tailored for different needs.
- How to Back Up Your Android Phone to PC
- Best Internet Security Tools You Should Use
- Google Drive Tips & Tricks
FAQs
Is there a truly free, private cloud?
Yes — services like Sync.com and other Google Cloud Storage alternatives offer zero-knowledge encryption even on free tiers, though space is limited.
Which alternative gives the most free space?
Degoo advertises around 100GB free (ad-supported). MEGA usually offers ~20GB free as one of the popular Google Cloud Storage alternatives.
What’s better for sharing large files?
pCloud and Icedrive have smooth web players and sharing options that work well for media.
Can I migrate from Google Drive easily?
Most services offer web importers or desktop apps. For large libraries, migrate in batches and verify integrity with checksums.
Final thought: Try two services in parallel for a week to evaluate their features as Google Cloud Storage alternatives — the daily feel (speed, previews, mobile workflow) decides more than specs.
Have a suggestion or a hidden gem to add? Drop it in the comments — we may feature it in the next update.
