In the world of online business, cloud storage is LIFE.
It’s the place you go to organize all your files, share them around the world as needed, and backup everything securely. For some, myself included, it’s even the place where we go to create documents and spreadsheets.
There are so many amazing things you can do with cloud storage services. And there are so many out there to choose from!
Which Cloud Storage Service is Right for You?
If you’re like most folks, you probably already have several accounts and files stashed all over the place. But if you’re trying to decide on a central hub for your business, it can be a challenge to narrow things down.
Google Drive vs. OneDrive vs. Dropbox
No doubt you’ve heard of each of these. Dropbox has been around for more than a decade now and the other 2 have caught up quickly in terms of what they offer. You can search for comparisons of them all day long and find a hundred or more supporters for each.
I’m just going to cut to the chase and tell you which one is best… The best cloud storage service is the one that you like and use.
Ta-da! End of post. But not really because that’d be lame.
Let’s check these big boys out in case you need help deciding.
Google Drive
Full disclosure: This is my favorite, and I’m extremely biased. You should use Google Drive too.
Best for: Mac Users, Google Addicts, and people who like lots of free stuff
Google Drive offers the largest amount of free storage space with 15GB. If you’re only storing docs and some images, this will last you a long time. If you need to store bigger files like videos or multitudes of graphics, you’re going to need an upgrade.
Luckily, GDrive has very reasonable pricing for additional storage. For example, you can get 2 TB for only $9.99 per month.
You can access your GDrive account and Google Suite apps anywhere you go on a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. There are also apps for android and iPhone users that make it easy to view, edit, and share your files even if you’re trapped at the dentist’s office for hours.
The final thing I really like about GDrive is that I can reach support through chat and not just through email. Waiting on email support can be a huge drag so I like having the instant option when I’m in a hurry.
OneDrive
Best for: Microsoft Users and people who are “old school”
If you’re using Microsoft devices, this is really a no brainer for you. At the very least I suggest you sign up for the free storage. It integrates flawlessly with the Microsoft operating system and makes storing things in the cloud a piece of cake.
One of the (only) areas where OneDrive outshines GDrive is with it’s sharing capabilities. Even with the free plan, you have the ability to set passwords and expiry dates when you share files, which is a really nice feature.
Just like GDrive, you can access your OneDrive account from anywhere including your great-aunt Nellie’s desktop she purchased during a Black Friday sale in 2009 (you know, back when it was only on Friday).
The free account will net you a cool 5GB, but you can upgrade to other plans if you need more like their 1TB plan for $6.99 per month that includes Office 365 (the free plan does not).
Dropbox
Best for: Basically anyone who just needs a little storage space
If all you need is a simple space to store and share files, Dropbox is your jam. There’s no office suite included so you can’t create or edit anything. Simplicity can be a good thing though.
It’s unfortunate that you only get 2GB free, but you can also “earn” more space through referrals. And 2TB for $11.99 per month ain’t half bad.
I like to use my free Dropbox space for stashing documents and images that I know I won’t be editing.
Other Options
The Big Three aren’t the only options you have of course. There’s iCloud, iDrive, SugarSync, Box, SpiderOak… The list goes on and on.
I prefer to stick with the big three for one reason – integrations. Because they’re so popular, they integrate with basically every other tool you’ll possibly need! That’s a huge bonus in my book, and honestly, it can be a must-have at times.
The Bottom Line
Google Drive - If you want the most free storage or if you’re a Mac user or Google addict.
OneDrive - If you’re a Microsoft user or you need advanced sharing capabilities like passwords and expiry dates.
Dropbox - The “everyone is equal, but we don’t give away a ton of free space” option.
