pCloud vs Dropbox: Which is the best cloud storage tool for your business?

We live in the era of remote collaboration, distributed teams, and data that travels more than we do. And in this landscape, having cloud collaboration tools that guarantee not only space but also protection and control makes a big difference.

Today more than ever, companies need online solutions that not only work well but are designed with the highest cybersecurity standards. It is no longer enough to just upload documents to “the cloud”; now top-level encryption, granular access controls, regulatory compliance, and, of course, a user experience that doesn’t make us miss the old hard drive are required.

In this article we are going to make a comparison of the two heavyweights of secure storage: Dropbox and pCloud. We will see what they offer, how they behave in professional day-to-day use, and which might be the best option for teams that want to work without surprises. Because choosing the right tool not only saves you trouble… it also saves you time, money, and more than one headache.

pCloud and Dropbox Business: What Both Cloud Storage Solutions Are and What They Are For

pCloud is a cloud storage solution developed in Switzerland that has gained popularity among users and companies who value security, privacy, and flexibility.

Unlike other services, pCloud places special emphasis on the control users have over their files: you can decide whether to keep data automatically synchronized or simply store it in the cloud without taking up space on your device.

With pCloud, it is possible to create and manage virtual folders to organize your files efficiently, facilitating synchronization and sharing files with other users. It also stands out for its option of one-time lifetime payment, which is interesting for businesses looking to avoid constant monthly subscriptions.

For professional environments, pCloud offers pCloud Business, a version adapted for work teams that includes features such as shared folders, detailed access controls, file revision history, and additional encryption with pCloud Crypto (an optional security feature that allows end-to-end encryption). In addition, compliance with standards such as the European GDPR makes it a serious option for companies concerned with the protection of confidential data.

Dropbox Business, for its part, is the enterprise version of one of the most veteran and recognized cloud storage services on the market.

Its strength lies in real-time collaboration: it allows multiple users to work on the same files simultaneously, thanks to seamless integrations with tools such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and productivity applications like Slack or Zoom. Additionally, you can invite friends and people to collaborate and share files, even if they do not have a Dropbox account, which facilitates collaboration and information exchange.

This solution is designed for teams that need a robust, reliable system with many integrations, especially in hybrid or remote work environments. Dropbox Business includes features such as smart sync, deleted file recovery, version history, activity audits, and advanced user administration. All supported by a global infrastructure and security standards such as 256-bit AES encryption and multifactor authentication.

In short, Dropbox Business is ideal for companies that prioritize collaborative work efficiency, while pCloud appeals to those who value privacy, autonomy, and control over managing their data. Millions of people and companies trust these services to store, share, and protect critical information through features such as backup and folder organization.

pCloud: Swiss security with a focus on user control

pCloud is one of the cloud storage solutions most oriented towards user control and data privacy. One of its main strengths is its focus on usage flexibility: you can choose to sync files between devices or keep them exclusively in the cloud to free up local space, thanks to its “pCloud Drive” feature.

Additionally, it allows file versioning, automatic backups, and an intuitive interface that makes managing large volumes of content simple. For businesses, this translates into operational agility without sacrificing organization.

Where pCloud is somewhat more limited is in the area of integrations with third-party tools. It is not as powerful or versatile as Dropbox Business in this regard: it lacks deep integrations with suites like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace.

However, it does offer a developer API, which allows for custom integration in certain technical environments. It also includes a backup feature for other cloud services such as Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, or even social networks like Facebook and Instagram, which helps consolidate scattered files.

In terms of cybersecurity, pCloud stands out especially due to its location: all data is hosted on Swiss or European servers and complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). It uses TLS/SSL encryption during file transfer and 256-bit AES encryption for storage.

Additionally, for users and businesses with high-security requirements, pCloud offers pCloud Crypto, an additional end-to-end encryption layer (client-server) where only the user has access to the keys. It is a premium feature but further strengthens trust in the platform.

Users highly value its lifetime payment model, which is rare in the cloud storage world, as well as its ease of use, upload/download speed, and the peace of mind knowing their data is not being indexed or monetized. They also highlight the efficient technical support and the clarity of its privacy policies.

Pros and cons of pCloud

pCloud Plans and Prices (2025)

pCloud is a highly scalable solution for businesses, largely thanks to its wide selection of available plans. Below we detail the subscription prices of pCloud, as well as its lifetime plan that offers unlimited access to the platform with a single payment.

• Premium 500 GB
• Monthly: €4.99/month (~ €59.88/year)
• Annual: €49.99/year
• Premium Plus 2 TB
• Monthly: €9.99/month (~ €119.88/year)
• Annual: €99.99/year
• "Lifetime" Plans
• 500 GB: €199 (one-time payment)
• 2 TB: €399 (one-time payment)
• Family and business plans also available (up to 10 TB and per-user licenses)
• pCloud Crypto (zero-knowledge encryption)
• Monthly: €4.99/month (monthly) or €3.99/month (with annual payment)
• Lifetime one-time payment: €150.
• Free Plan
• Up to 10 GB, identical to IceDrive.

Dropbox Business: Real-time collaboration with consolidated infrastructure

Dropbox Business is the professional version of the veteran cloud storage service that many know for being a pioneer in the file synchronization world. However, it has evolved a lot since then.

Today, Dropbox Business is an intelligent collaboration platform designed for teams that need not only to store files, but also to work on them smoothly, securely, and in real time.

One of its main strengths is its ecosystem of integrations. Dropbox natively connects with key tools such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Slack, Zoom, Trello and many more. This allows teams to work on documents without needing to download them or leave the collaborative environment. Also, with its Dropbox Paper tool, collaborative documents similar to Google Docs can be created, adding extra value for companies looking to centralize communication and workflow.

Regarding security, Dropbox Business complies with leading international standards, including ISO 27001, HIPAA, and GDPR, and offers encryption in transit (TLS/SSL) and at rest (AES-256). It also features multifactor authentication (MFA), threat detection, and administrative options such as permission control, deleted file recovery, extended version history, and activity auditing.

Administrators can manage user permissions and configure file access, ensuring only authorized users can access sensitive information. Additionally, session management is key for security and authentication, allowing control and monitoring of access during each user session.

When sharing files, Dropbox allows creation of customized links that can be password-protected, set with expiration dates, or restricted from downloads. It is possible to control data traffic through these links, which helps manage the amount of data transferred and maintain security.

Another highly valued aspect by its users is its intelligent synchronization, which allows viewing and managing files directly from the desktop without taking up disk space. Dropbox offers a clear and accessible preview of files, facilitating document, image, and video management. Additionally, the ease of accessing files from anywhere and across different platforms is a key feature. The Dropbox app stands out for its ease of use on various devices, allowing comfortable work both on computers and mobile phones.

The downside, for some companies, may be its subscription-only model, which in the long run may be more costly compared to options like pCloud.

Also, although Dropbox has greatly improved in privacy and data control, some stricter organizations regarding data residency outside the U.S. might consider this a limitation.

Pros and cons of Dropbox for Business

Dropbox Business Plans and Pricing (2025)

The European Dropbox page shows prices in USD, but the following equivalent rates apply in Europe:

• Professional: €16.58 per month for 3 TB of storage and one user.
• Standard: €12 per month for a minimum of 3 users, 9 TB per team. There is also an option for plans with 2 TB of storage, ideal for users who don’t require as much space but seek flexibility and cloud security.
• Advanced: €18 per user per month, with a minimum of 3 users, up to 15 TB (expandable with an Enterprise contract). This plan allows managing large volumes of files and leveraging storage size in TB according to the team’s needs.
• Enterprise: Custom pricing, includes advanced security options, personalized storage, and dedicated support.

pCloud vs Dropbox: Direct comparison

What do both tools do well?

Although pCloud and Dropbox Business have different approaches, both platforms share a number of strengths that make them highly reliable and professional cloud storage tools. Here we tell you what they have in common and where they stand out:

• Strong security as standard: Both use AES-256 level encryption at rest and TLS/SSL in transit, ensuring that data is protected both when being sent and stored.
• Multiplatform access: Both platforms are available on all major platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS), ensuring synchronization and access from any device.
• Good user experience: Both Dropbox and pCloud offer clean, intuitive interfaces with a low learning curve, ideal for teams that don't want complications.
• Selective / smart synchronization: Both allow viewing files without physically downloading them to the device, saving local space without losing productivity.
• Control over shared content: In both tools, you can create password-protected links, set expiration dates, and limit downloads, which is key to properly managing information leaving your company.
• File recovery and version control: If you delete a file by mistake or need to go back to a previous version, both platforms have effective systems to recover and manage file history.
• Strong technical support: In their Business versions, both pCloud and Dropbox offer dedicated support channels designed to quickly resolve issues in professional environments.
• Scalability for teams: Both solutions allow adding users, managing permissions, and scaling storage according to the team's growth needs.

How does one clearly outperform the other?

Here is a comparative table summarizing in which aspects one tool is clearly superior to the other, helping to decide based on what you value most in your company:

Why look for alternative cloud backup and collaboration tools?

Both Dropbox and pCloud have certain challenges or limitations that should be considered before making a decision. If you are evaluating which one fits your organization better, this section can help you identify the weak points that could tip the balance:

pCloud: the least considered for teamwork

pCloud is an excellent platform if what you seek is security, privacy, and control over your files, especially with its end-to-end encryption option (pCloud Crypto) and the ability to choose the location of your data in Europe or Switzerland.

However, there are scenarios where pCloud may not be the best choice. Its focus is clearly oriented towards secure storage, but it lacks integrated productivity and real-time collaboration tools, such as simultaneous document editing, integration with office suites, or automations.

This can limit its usefulness for teams working in intensive collaborative environments, where workflows are integrated with tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, or Slack.

It also may fall short for large organizations that require advanced auditing features, approval workflows, or complex integrations with internal systems.

Dropbox: less ideal if you care about the security and governance of your data

Dropbox Business is a mature, reliable, and extremely powerful solution for companies that value collaboration, team organization, and integrations with productivity tools.

However, its main weakness remains privacy and control over data, as files are stored on U.S. servers and Dropbox does not offer end-to-end encryption by default. For European companies concerned about strict GDPR compliance or professionals handling confidential information (lawyers, psychologists, journalists), this can be a significant limitation.

Additionally, its per-user pricing model and the requirement to purchase at least three licenses may be less attractive to freelancers or small teams looking for a simpler, more private, and affordable solution.

Alternatives to pCloud and Dropbox

If pCloud and Dropbox do not meet your business needs, don’t worry. At Softonic we have gathered the top alternatives on the market that we like the most. All of them offer the best storage and data security options, as well as collaboration features for remote teams. They are the following:

Tresorit

Tresorit is a cloud storage platform specially designed for those who prioritize security and privacy, both on a personal and business level.

It is headquartered in Switzerland, which gives it a significant legal advantage regarding data protection, and its main strength is that all content is end-to-end encrypted by default, without needing to activate additional features as is the case with pCloud.

Unlike Dropbox, not even Tresorit as a provider has access to your files, making it an especially attractive option for lawyers, doctors, journalists, or any professional handling highly sensitive information.

Functionality-wise, Tresorit offers multi-platform synchronization, secure collaboration through shared folders, granular access controls, and file versioning.

Although it doesn't have integrations as extensive as Dropbox, its professional focus, compliance with European regulations, and strong security reputation make Tresorit a very attractive option for teams needing to work in the cloud without compromising privacy.

That said, its prices are above average, making it a premium alternative.

Sync.com

Sync.com is an interesting alternative to both Dropbox and pCloud, based in Canada, and aimed at offering an end-to-end encrypted cloud storage experience included by default in all its plans.

Like pCloud, Sync places a strong emphasis on user privacy, but it also provides a modern interface and basic collaborative features that make it an intermediate solution: more private than Dropbox, but with more flexibility than pCloud in certain aspects of shared work.

Sync allows secure sharing of files and folders, setting passwords, expiration dates, and download restrictions, all hassle-free. Its design is intuitive, its synchronization system is very efficient, and it offers good value for money, especially in annual plans.

It does not have advanced integrations with other platforms, but for teams that only seek secure storage, simple shared work, and controlled costs, Sync.com is a very solid option.

Google Drive (with Google Workspace)

Google Drive, integrated within the Google Workspace ecosystem, is one of the most popular options worldwide for companies that need real-time collaboration, flexibility, and scalability.

Unlike pCloud and other alternatives more focused on privacy, Google Drive bets on productivity and the connection between tools: documents, spreadsheets, presentations, email, calendar, and more, all unified. It is ideal for teams that work remotely and need to edit files simultaneously, comment, review, and share effortlessly.

In terms of privacy, Google does not offer end-to-end encryption, which can be a barrier for those handling ultra-confidential information. However, it complies with multiple security standards (including GDPR) and allows advanced administration and auditing controls.

Additionally, its plans have competitive prices and a low learning curve, especially for users already familiar with Gmail or Android. Ultimately, if the priority is collaboration and integration, Google Drive remains a tough giant to beat.

What is the best option for storing and sharing files in the cloud?

If your company works with sensitive information, operates in sectors such as legal, health, finance, or simply prioritizes privacy and absolute control over data, pCloud is a very solid option.

Its optional end-to-end encryption, the possibility to choose server locations (EU or Switzerland), and its minimalist and secure approach make it the ideal choice for teams that do not need real-time collaboration but do want a cloud where everything is locked down.

On the other hand, if your business needs agile collaboration, simultaneous work on documents, integration with productivity tools like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, and shared workflows, Dropbox Business makes everything easier for you.

Its ecosystem is designed for teams to communicate, edit, and progress without friction, making it a very powerful solution for agencies, startups, creative departments, or any environment that values group work efficiency.

The choice ultimately depends on your priorities: if privacy is your focus, go with pCloud; if shared productivity is your priority, Dropbox Business is hard to beat. Both are excellent tools but respond to different needs. Understanding how your team works and what you value most — security or collaboration — is the key to making the right choice.

Verdict: Dropbox Business or pCloud?

After thoroughly analyzing the features, advantages, and limitations of pCloud and Dropbox Business, we can confidently say that both are highly competent and professional cloud storage tools.

Each is designed with a clear focus: pCloud strongly emphasizes security and privacy, while Dropbox positions itself as a hub for collaboration and digital productivity.

Dropbox Business stands out especially in environments where smooth collaboration, integrations with office suites, and shared workflows are key. It is ideal for teams that value real-time work, task automation, and centralizing information in a single platform.

On the other hand, pCloud becomes the best option for companies seeking maximum control over their data, end-to-end encryption, and strict regulatory compliance, without sacrificing ease of use or accessibility.

In summary: there is no universally better tool, but a better tool for you. Choose Dropbox Business if your company revolves around collaborative work and connected productivity; go with pCloud if your priority is data protection, privacy, and secure simplicity.

In both cases, you will be investing in a modern, robust solution prepared for the digital challenges of 2025.