Dropbox vs OneDrive

A comprehensive comparison of features, pricing, and capabilities to help you choose the right cloud storage solution in 2025

Dropbox
OneDrive
Dropbox
OneDrive
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OneDrive vs Dropbox: Quick feature comparison
Compare key features and capabilities

  • Features
  • Dropbox
  • OneDrive
Core Focus
File sync & collaboration
Personal & team file storage
Starting Price
$12/user/month
$5/user/month
Free Storage
2 GB
1TB/user (Business)
Security Features
Advanced
Standard
Integrations
500+ apps
Microsoft 365
File Version History
30 days (free)
Yes
Collaboration Tools
Advanced
Basic
Maximum File Upload
50 GB
100 GB

Detailed feature comparison
A comprehensive look at what each platform offers

  • Feature
  • Dropbox
  • OneDrive
File storage
File sharing
Mobile access
Version history
30 days (free)
Yes
Two-factor authentication
Enterprise mobility management
Advanced
Standard
Content workflow automation
Real-time collaboration
Custom branding
API access
Offline access
File recovery
30 days
30 days
Password protected links
Link expiration
File preview
Document scanning
Team folder management
Activity tracking
Advanced
Basic
Device management
Advanced
Standard
Data classification

Dropbox: File Sync & Collaboration Platform

Dropbox is a cloud storage and file synchronization service that focuses on simplicity and collaboration. It offers robust file syncing across devices with advanced sharing and collaboration features.

  • Advanced file synchronization across devices
  • Extensive third-party integrations
  • Advanced collaboration tools
Best use cases: Teams that need reliable file synchronization, creative agencies, remote teams, organizations requiring extensive third-party integrations.
Dropbox file management interface
OneDrive file management interface

OneDrive: Personal & Team File Storage

OneDrive is Microsoft's cloud storage solution designed primarily for individual file storage and simple team sharing. It's perfect for personal use, small teams, and organizations that need straightforward file storage integrated with Microsoft 365 applications.

  • Microsoft 365 integration: Seamless integration with Office apps
  • Simple sharing: Basic link sharing with view/edit permissions
  • Personal file storage: 1TB per user with easy sync across devices
  • Mobile access: Easy access from phones and tablets
  • Version history: Basic file versioning and recovery

OneDrive vs Dropbox pricing comparison
Compare pricing plans and features

Dropbox Plans

Starting from
$18/user/mo
Professional$20/month
Standard$18/user/month
Advanced$30/user/month

OneDrive Plans

Starting from
$5/user/mo
OneDrive for Business Plan 1$5/user/month
Microsoft 365 Business Basic$6/user/month
Microsoft 365 Business Standard$12.50/user/month

Key differences: OneDrive vs Dropbox
Understanding the main distinctions

Core Purpose

Dropbox is focused on file synchronization and collaboration with extensive third-party integrations, while OneDrive is designed for personal and team file storage with deep Microsoft 365 integration.

Security & Compliance

Dropbox offers advanced security features and enterprise-grade compliance, while OneDrive provides basic security with Microsoft 365 integration.

Storage & Integration

Dropbox provides flexible storage options and extensive third-party integrations, while OneDrive offers 1TB storage with deep Microsoft 365 integration.

Best use cases for Dropbox

Dropbox is ideal for teams and organizations that need reliable file synchronization, advanced collaboration features, and extensive third-party integrations.

  • File synchronization across devices
  • Advanced collaboration tools
  • Extensive third-party integrations

Best use cases for OneDrive

OneDrive excels for individuals, small teams, and organizations that need simple file storage and sharing integrated with Microsoft 365 applications.

  • Personal file storage
  • Small team collaboration
  • Microsoft 365 integration

OneDrive vs Dropbox: Which is right for you?

Dropbox and OneDrive serve different primary purposes, making them suitable for different use cases:

Choose Dropbox if: You need reliable file synchronization across devices with advanced collaboration features and extensive third-party integrations. Dropbox is perfect for teams that require robust file syncing, creative agencies, and organizations that need flexibility with third-party tools.

Choose OneDrive if: You need simple, secure file storage and sharing for individuals or small teams, with seamless Microsoft 365 integration. OneDrive is perfect for personal use, basic team collaboration, and organizations that primarily use Microsoft applications.

Consider Papermark if: You are looking for a modern alternative that combines secure document sharing with advanced analytics and security features. Papermark offers dynamic watermarking, geo-location tracking, and detailed engagement analytics in an open-source platform that can be customized to your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Dropbox vs OneDrive

What is the difference between Dropbox and OneDrive?

Dropbox is a cloud storage and file synchronization service focused on reliable file syncing across devices with advanced collaboration features and extensive third-party integrations. OneDrive is Microsoft's cloud storage solution designed for personal and team file storage with deep Microsoft 365 integration. While both provide cloud storage, Dropbox is better suited for teams that need robust file synchronization and collaboration, while OneDrive is ideal for individuals and small teams who primarily use Microsoft 365 applications.

How to transfer files from Dropbox to OneDrive?

To transfer files from Dropbox to OneDrive, you can use several methods: 1 Download files from Dropbox and upload them to OneDrive manually, 2 Use Microsoft's OneDrive desktop app to sync files locally, 3 Use third-party migration tools like Mover.io or CloudHQ, 4 Use the OneDrive web interface to drag and drop files from your local Dropbox folder. For large amounts of data, consider using Microsoft's FastTrack service or enterprise migration tools. Remember to verify all files transferred correctly and update any shared links or permissions.

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