If your team’s shared Google Drive is a mess of ambiguous documents and mystery folders, you’re not alone. For many businesses, it doesn’t take long before Drive starts feeling like a digital everything drawer. And when everyone has access to everything, you end up with multiple versions of the same file and no clear source of truth.

The good news? Once you’ve hit the ceiling with Google Drive, there are plenty of tools built to give you more structure and control of your company docs. In this article, we’ll share eight alternatives that help your team stay aligned and work from a single, reliable source of truth.

What to look for in Google Drive alternatives

As teams grow, Drive can become chaotic—disorganized folders, unclear permissions, and version control issues.

If your team struggles with messy folders, inconsistent file names, or unclear access rules, it might be time to move beyond Google Drive. The best alternatives don’t just store files—they help you turn confusing documents into a searchable system your whole team can rely on. Here’s what to prioritize when choosing an alternative:

• Organized layout: Go beyond folders. Look for tools that support linked records, tags, or database-style layouts to keep related content together.
• Flexible access control: Set clear rules for who can see and edit what, whether it’s by role, team, or client.
• Search functionality: Prioritize tools with full-text search, filters, and the ability to surface specific files quickly.
• Simple user experience: Your team should be able to find, access, and organize files without a manual or IT support.

8 top Google Drive alternatives

Not every team needs the same thing from a Drive alternative. Some prioritize access control, others need better integration with their existing tools, and many are just looking for a cleaner way to keep things organized. Here are eight platforms worth considering:

1. Softr

Best for building an internal resource hub

While Softr isn’t a direct replacement for Google Drive, it’s a great option for teams who want to store documents or SOPs in a structured database—and make them easier to find, filter, and share. Whether you’re using Airtable, Google Sheets, Notion, Softr’s native database (beta), or another data source, you can turn that data into a clean, searchable interface without writing a line of code.

With drag-and-drop blocks, you can build directories with tags and filters that reflect how your data is already organized. And with custom permissions, you control who sees what—so sales can access only their materials, HR can view employee docs, and no one gets overwhelmed with files they don’t need.

Who is Softr best for

Softr is a good fit for teams that have outgrown Google Drive and need a clearer, more secure way to surface information stored in a structured database. It’s also a strong choice if you need a front-end for clients or external users, without giving them access to everything behind the scenes.

Key features:

• Drag-and-drop builder: Drag and drop pre-built blocks to create custom layouts, directories, and filtered views that fit your team’s structure—not just a folder hierarchy.
• 14+ native data source integrations: Softr connects to Airtable, Google Sheets, HubSpot, Notion, monday.com, BigQuery, SQL databases, and more. You can also connect to almost any external data source via REST API—or use Softr’s own native database (currently in beta).
• Role-based access control: Decide who can view, edit, or manage content based on their role, team, or login status—no more shared folders with unclear permissions.
• Search and filtering: Let users quickly find what they need by filtering content using tags, categories, or any custom fields from your data source.
• Custom sorting: Sort articles by date, category, or custom fields to surface the most relevant content.
• PWA: Allow your team or clients to access from any device.

Soft pros

• Fast to set up: Launch in minutes using pre-built templates and a drag-and-drop builder, no dev work or complicated setup needed.
• Works with your existing data: Connect Softr to Airtable, Google Sheets, Notion, HubSpot, and 14+ other native data sources, no need to migrate anything. You can also connect to any custom data source using the REST API.
• Control who sees and edits what: Set granular, role-based permissions so internal teams, clients, or partners only see or update the content meant for them.
• All-in-one platform: Build knowledge bases, client portals, and internal tools in one place—so you can cut down on tool sprawl and costs.

Softr cons

• No built-in document editing: You can’t create or edit text docs, spreadsheets, or slides directly inside Softr like you can with Google Docs or Sheets.
• Requires structured data: To get value from Softr, you need to organize your content in a database like Airtable, Notion, Google Sheets, or Softr Databases (beta).

Softr pricing

Softr offers flexible pricing plans, so you can build a knowledge base at any tier:

• Free for up to 10 users per month
• Paid plans start at $49/month for 20 users (when billed annually)
• Professional: Starts at $139/month for 100 users (when billed annually)
• Business: Starting at $269/month for 2500 users (when billed annually)
• Custom plans for enterprise customers

2. Dropbox

Best for reliable file sync and external sharing

Dropbox is a cloud storage tool focused on fast, secure file syncing across devices. It’s designed around a traditional folder structure and integrates well with desktop environments, making it a familiar option for teams transitioning from local file storage. Users can upload, share, and manage documents, and collaborate using comments or integrated tools like Microsoft Office.

It’s a solid fit for teams that often need to store and share files—especially those working with external contributors. While it lacks advanced customization or workflow features, its simplicity and performance make it dependable for everyday use.

Key features

• Cross-device file syncing: Access and update files from any device, with offline availability when needed
• External file requests: Collect uploads from clients or teammates without giving them full access
• Folder-level sharing: Set permissions for specific folders, ideal for client work or team handoffs
• Version history and recovery: Restore previous versions or recover deleted files with built-in tracking
• App integrations: Connect with tools like Microsoft 365, Slack, Zoom, and more for a smoother workflow

Dropbox pros

• Fast, reliable sync and file access
• Simple interface that’s easy to onboard
• External sharing tools are straightforward to use

Dropbox cons

• Limited structure beyond folders and files
• No built-in tools for custom layouts or internal knowledge hubs
• Advanced permission settings locked behind paid tiers

Pricing

• Free plan with 2 GB of storage
• Plus: $11.99/month for individuals (2 TB storage)
• Standard: $15/user/month (5 TB, admin tools, version history)
• Advanced: $24/user/month with more granular controls and team features

3. Microsoft OneDrive

Best for teams already using Microsoft 365

Microsoft OneDrive is a cloud storage tool built into the Microsoft 365 suite. It lets teams store, sync, and share files across devices, with built-in access to tools like Word, Excel, and Teams. Recent updates have added AI features like file summarization and smarter search, making it easier to manage growing document libraries.

It’s a strong fit for businesses that already use Microsoft tools and want to keep everything in one system—especially teams that need IT-managed access controls, secure sharing, and audit-friendly compliance settings.

Key features

• Real-time editing and version history in Office docs
• AI-powered file suggestions and summaries with Microsoft Copilot
• Secure access via Teams, Outlook, and OneDrive mobile apps
• Central admin controls for permissions and sharing
• Built-in compliance features for enterprise or regulated teams

Microsoft OneDrive pros

• A seamless experience for Microsoft 365 users
• Strong security and access management tools
• Regular updates with new AI and productivity features

Microsoft OneDrive cons

• Less flexible for teams not using the full Microsoft suite
• External sharing settings can be hard to manage
• Limited customization for how content is organized or displayed

Pricing

• Free: 5 GB storage
• Microsoft 365 Basic: $1.99/month (100 GB)
• Microsoft 365 Personal: $6.99/month (1 TB + Office apps)
• Business Standard: $12.50/user/month (1 TB per user + desktop apps)

4. pCloud

Best for teams that need secure, flexible cloud storage without vendor lock-in

pCloud is a Swiss-based cloud storage platform that prioritizes user control and data privacy. It offers client-side encryption through its optional Crypto add-on, ensuring that only you can access your encrypted files. Unlike some competitors, pCloud allows you to choose between U.S. or EU data centers, catering to specific compliance needs.

This service is well-suited for teams that require secure file storage without being tied to a larger ecosystem. Its lifetime pricing options can be cost-effective for long-term use, and its media playback capabilities make it appealing for content-heavy workflows.

Key features

• Client-side encryption: Add an extra layer of privacy with pCloud Crypto (available as a paid add-on)
• Choice of data storage location: U.S. or EU
• Integrated media player for audio and video files
• File versioning and extended file history options
• Offline access with selective sync: Make specific files or folders available offline without syncing your entire drive

pCloud pros

• Strong emphasis on data privacy and security
• Flexible pricing, including lifetime plans
• Supports large file sizes and media streaming

pCloud cons

• Client-side encryption requires a paid add-on
• Lacks native document editing and collaboration tools
• Interface may feel outdated compared to newer platforms

Pricing

• Free: Up to 10 GB storage
• Premium 500 GB: $4.99/month or $49.99/year
• Premium Plus 2 TB: $9.99/month or $99.99/year
• Lifetime Plans: 500 GB for $199, 2 TB for $399
• pCloud Crypto: $4.99/month, $49.99/year, or $150 lifetime

5. Box

Best for teams that need enterprise-grade security and collaboration

Box is a cloud content management platform designed for businesses that need secure document storage, advanced sharing controls, and workflow automation. It supports file collaboration, integrates with tools like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, and includes built-in e-signature and approval workflows.

While Box is often seen as an enterprise tool, it can also be valuable for mid-sized teams that handle sensitive data or work with external clients. Its admin controls and audit-ready compliance features make it a strong option for regulated industries.

Key features

• Role-based access: Control who can view, edit, or manage files with granular sharing permissions
• Built-in e-signature: Sign documents directly in the platform using Box Sign
• Version history and detailed file activity tracking
• Integration with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Slack, and Zoom
• Compliance and governance add-ons: Support for HIPAA, GDPR, legal holds, and retention policies (available on enterprise plans)

Box pros

• Strong compliance and security capabilities
• Good collaboration tools without locking you into one ecosystem
• Flexible workflows with automation and approvals built in

Box cons

• Can be more complex to set up and manage
• Some advanced features only available on enterprise plans
• Overkill for teams that only need basic storage and sharing

Pricing

• Free: 10 GB with 250 MB file upload limit
• Business: $20/user/month (minimum 3 users, unlimited storage)
• Business Plus: $33/user/month (advanced collaboration and security)
• Enterprise: Custom pricing for compliance-heavy teams or large orgs

6. Icedrive

Best for privacy-focused storage with a modern interface

Icedrive is a cloud storage provider that emphasizes security and user control. It offers client-side encryption, ensuring that only you can access your encrypted files. Unlike some competitors, Icedrive allows you to choose between U.S. or EU data centers, catering to specific compliance needs.

This service is well-suited for teams that require secure file storage without being tied to a larger ecosystem. Its lifetime pricing options can be cost-effective for long-term use, and its media playback capabilities make it appealing for content-heavy workflows.

Key features

• Client-side encryption: Protect sensitive files with zero-knowledge encryption using the Twofish algorithm
• Choice of data storage location: U.S. or EU
• Integrated media player for audio and video files
• File versioning and extended file history options
• Offline access and selective sync: Work without the internet and sync only the files you need on each device

Icedrive pros

• Strong emphasis on data privacy and security
• Flexible pricing, including lifetime plans
• Supports large file sizes and media streaming

Icedrive cons

• Client-side encryption requires a paid add-on
• Lacks native document editing and collaboration tools
• Interface may feel outdated compared to newer platforms

Pricing

• Free: Up to 10 GB storage
• Premium 500 GB: $4.99/month or $49.99/year
• Premium Plus 2 TB: $9.99/month or $99.99/year
• Lifetime Plans: 500 GB for $199, 2 TB for $399
• pCloud Crypto: $4.99/month, $49.99/year, or $150 lifetime

7. NordLocker

Best for secure, encrypted storage with a simple interface

NordLocker is a cloud storage service from the makers of NordVPN, focused on zero-knowledge encryption and user privacy. All files are encrypted locally before they’re uploaded, meaning even NordLocker can’t access your data. It works across devices and includes drag-and-drop functionality for encrypted folders ("lockers") on your desktop.

It’s best for small teams, freelancers, or privacy-conscious businesses that need secure cloud storage but don’t require extensive collaboration features or app integrations.

Key features

• End-to-end zero-knowledge encryption by default
• Cross-platform access (Windows, macOS, mobile, web)
• Easy-to-use desktop app with drag-and-drop encrypted folders
• Automatic backup and syncing between devices

NordLocker pros

• Strong focus on privacy and file security
• Clean interface with minimal setup required
• No file size limits on uploads

NordLocker cons

• Limited sharing and collaboration options
• No built-in editing or document management tools
• Smaller ecosystem than competitors like Google or Microsoft

Pricing

• Free: 3 GB encrypted cloud storage
• Personal Premium: $3.19/month (500 GB)
• Business: From $7.99/user/month with admin tools and priority support
• Includes zero-knowledge encryption on all plans

8. Sync.com

Best for secure file sharing with client-friendly controls

Sync.com is a cloud storage and file-sharing platform built around privacy and compliance. It offers end-to-end encryption on all plans, making it a strong choice for businesses that need to share documents securely—especially with clients or external partners.

Unlike some tools that treat encryption as an add-on, Sync.com includes it by default. Its clean interface and simple permission settings make it approachable for small teams that prioritize secure sharing over complex collaboration.

Key features

• End-to-end encryption on all files
• Custom branding and secure client portals
• File requests and password-protected links: Collect documents securely and control access with link protection
• Built-in document preview and download tracking
• Canadian-based data centers (helpful for teams with non-US compliance needs)

Sync.com pros

• Strong built-in security and privacy protections
• Easy-to-use sharing controls and branded portals
• All plans include encryption—no add-ons required

Sync.com cons

• No live document editing or collaboration
• Limited integrations with third-party apps
• Slower sync speeds compared to some competitors

Pricing

• Free: 5 GB encrypted storage
• Solo Basic: $8/month (2 TB, single user)
• Teams Standard: $6/user/month (1 TB per user, minimum 2 users)
• Teams Unlimited: $15/user/month (unlimited storage, advanced admin features)

Finding the best Google Drive alternative

There’s no single “best” alternative to Google Drive—just the best fit for your team’s needs. Some teams need tighter control over who can access what. Others want stronger compliance or a cleaner way to organize files by client, project, or department. The best choice depends on how your team works and what problems you're trying to solve.

If your current setup feels out of place or hard to scale, Softr offers a more flexible way forward. You can turn your existing spreadsheets or documents into a structured, searchable knowledge hub—complete with custom layouts, live data, and granular access control. It’s ideal for internal teams that want clarity without complexity.

👉 Try Softr for free or explore our internal knowledge base template to start building a smarter system today.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is safer than Google Drive?

Tools like NordLocker and Sync.com offer end-to-end encryption, meaning no one but you can access your files—not even the provider.

2. How do I share files other than Google Drive?

Most cloud storage tools support secure sharing via links, folders, or client portals. Dropbox, Box, and Sync.com let you send files with password protection, expiration dates, and view-only options—without needing a Google account.

3. What is better, OneDrive or Google Drive?

OneDrive is better for Microsoft 365 users; Google Drive works best with Google Workspace. If you need more structure or live data views, Softr is a smarter layer on top.