7 Open Source Alternatives to Dropbox

A list of 7 carefully selected open-source alternatives to Dropbox.

Created by

Adrian

Mar 9, 2025Updated•9 min read

The open-source alternatives are ranked based on our custom ranking system and score. This system takes into account various factors to determine the best alternatives.

If you’re looking for alternative features or workflows, here is a prepared detailed list of Dropbox open-source alternatives — each with its own distinctive strengths and key features.

Nextcloud

28,840

4,200

Nextcloud is a comprehensive open source collaboration platform that enables organizations to securely host, share, and manage data on their premises or in the cloud. It offers powerful tools for file sync, communication, and enterprise-grade security, ensuring complete control over your data.

Key Features

Self-hosted file sync and sharing
Integrated collaboration tools (Talk, Groupware, Office)
Enterprise-grade security and audit capabilities
Customizable and scalable deployment
Local AI assistant for productivity enhancement
Compliance and data privacy by design

Nextcloud provides a self-hosted solution that brings together file storage, real-time collaboration, chat, video conferencing, and integrated office tools. Designed for scalability from small teams to global enterprises, it emphasizes privacy, compliance, and robust access control while offering customizable deployment options to suit varied organizational needs.

Learn more about Nextcloud

Twake

1,822

196

Twake is a secure open source collaboration platform designed to enhance organizational productivity. It integrates essential tools for messaging, file storage, and secure email, enabling teams to communicate and collaborate seamlessly with robust privacy and security measures.

Key Features

Secure, open source collaboration platform
Integrated chat, drive, and mail services
Advanced encryption and data protection
GDPR compliant with on-premise deployment options
Bridges for cross-application messaging
Versatile, multi-device synchronization

Twake offers an all-in-one digital suite that includes a secure messenger, encrypted data storage, and professional email services. Built with privacy-first principles, the platform ensures that files and communications are protected through advanced encryption and GDPR compliance. With features such as bridges for cross-application messaging, on-premise deployment options, and integration with third-party tools, Twake empowers teams to work efficiently across devices while maintaining full control of their data.

Learn more about Twake

Filestash

10,973

819

Filestash is a universal file manager and web client that connects to various storage protocols including SFTP, S3, FTP, WebDAV, Git, LDAP, and more. It offers an intuitive interface for browsing, organizing, and sharing files, making it a powerful solution for both personal projects and enterprise environments.

Key Features

Universal support for protocols (SFTP, S3, FTP, WebDAV, Git, LDAP, etc.)
Intuitive and responsive user interface
SSO integration with LDAP, SAML, and OIDC for streamlined authentication
White-label capabilities for brand customization
Extensible plugin-based architecture for custom solutions
Flexible deployment: self-hosted or SaaS options
Enterprise-grade security and support

Filestash streamlines file management by unifying access to multiple storage solutions through protocols such as SFTP, S3, FTP, WebDAV, and others. Its flexible deployment options—self-hosted or SaaS—coupled with features like SSO integration, white-label customization, and an extensible plugin architecture make managing files secure and efficient across diverse systems.

Learn more about Filestash

Ente

18,226

1,000

Ente is an end-to-end encrypted, open source cloud service designed to safeguard your photos and other sensitive data, including 2FA secrets. It offers privacy-focused storage, seamless backups, and secure sharing, making it a compelling alternative to mainstream cloud providers.

Key Features

End-to-end encryption ensuring zero-knowledge data privacy
Triple data replication across diverse, secure locations
Cross-platform support with dedicated open source apps
Automatic background uploads with on-device AI search
Encrypted sharing, collaboration, and family plan options

Ente securely backs up, organizes, and synchronizes your photos across Android, iOS, Web, Mac, Linux, and Windows platforms. Built with rigorous encryption and redundancy in mind, it automatically uploads your content in the background, uses on-device AI for smart search, and supports encrypted album sharing and collaborative features. Ente also offers family plans so you can safely share storage without compromising individual privacy.

Learn more about Ente

Spacedrive

34,062

1,030

Spacedrive is an open source cross-platform file explorer that unifies files from all your devices and clouds into one easy-to-use interface. Powered by a virtual distributed filesystem written in Rust, it caters to creators, hoarders, and anyone seeking better organization in their digital workflows.

Key Features

Unified file management across devices and clouds
Cross-platform support for Linux and Windows
Powered by a high-performance virtual distributed filesystem in Rust
Modern, user-friendly interface designed for creative workflows
Community-driven development with regular roadmap updates

Spacedrive brings together files from various devices and cloud services into a single explorer, offering a seamless file management experience. With support for Linux and Windows, its modern interface and real-time previews are designed for creative workflows and efficient organization. The tool, currently in its Alpha 0.4.2 stage, is developed by a vibrant open source community that continuously improves its capabilities.

Learn more about Spacedrive

Firefiles

337

Firefiles is the open‑source alternative to Dropbox that empowers users to set up a personalized cloud drive using the backend of their choice. It provides a secure and seamless platform to manage files across multiple providers with ease.

Key Features

Open‑source code available on GitHub
Seamless file uploads and downloads
Supports multiple cloud storage backends (AWS, Firebase, Digital Ocean, etc.)
Light and dark UI customization
Enhanced security and privacy measures
Built-in browser file previews
Dashboard for managing multiple drives
Future support for team collaboration

Firefiles transforms your storage buckets into fully managed cloud drives. It supports various backends like AWS S3, Firebase, Azure, and more, enabling you to upload, download, and preview files directly in your browser. With features like light and dark themes and a dashboard that manages multiple drives simultaneously, Firefiles offers enhanced security and privacy, making it ideal for both individuals and teams (team collaboration coming soon).

Learn more about Firefiles

Peergos

2,063

169

Peergos is a decentralized, peer-to-peer platform that provides secure file storage, a private social network, and an application hosting protocol. It enables users to control their data with quantum-resistant encryption and a self-sovereign identity, ensuring complete privacy and autonomy over digital content.

Key Features

Quantum-resistant end-to-end encryption
Decentralized storage built on IPFS and libp2p
Protected metadata and secure sharing via secret links
Multi-device login with offline access and sync client
Self-sovereign identity with portable credentials
Private social network with encrypted follow requests
Independent security audits by reputable firms

Built on a robust p2p architecture and IPFS, Peergos lets you store, share, and access files securely from any device. The platform features end-to-end encryption, metadata protection, and secret link sharing to keep your interactions private. With integrated applications such as document and media editors, along with offline access and a sync client, Peergos offers a holistic solution for managing digital life securely.

Learn more about Peergos

Price comparison of Dropbox open-source alternatives

Tool	Tier 1	Tier 2	Tier 3	Details
Nextcloud	$37.49 Nextcloud Enterprise – Files	$40 Nextcloud Enterprise – Talk	-	Learn more
Filestash	$6 Hobby	$50 Standard	$250 Enterprise Turnkey Solutions	Learn more
Ente	$0 Free	$2.49 Starter	$4.99 Popular	Learn more
Peergos	$3 Pro	$8 Visionary	$20 Pioneer	Learn more

* Pricing shown is based on publicly available information and may not reflect current rates. Visit each tool's website for detailed pricing information and additional tiers.

About Dropbox

Dropbox is a cloud storage and file sharing service based in San Francisco, California, United States. The company was founded in 2007 by Drew Houston and Arash Ferdowsi. The idea for Dropbox came to Houston when he forgot his USB drive while on a bus ride, leading him to envision a service that would allow users to access their files from anywhere. Dropbox's headquarters is located in San Francisco. The company's headquarters is a modern, open workspace that promotes collaboration among its employees. The headquarters includes amenities such as a gym, cafeteria, and recreational areas. The main product of Dropbox is its cloud storage and file sharing platform. Users can store files in the cloud and access them from any device, as well as share files and collaborate with others. Dropbox offers a variety of plans for individuals and businesses, with features such as advanced sharing options, file recovery, and enhanced security. On a global scale, Dropbox has a significant presence with millions of users worldwide. The company operates in multiple countries and has data centers in different regions to ensure reliable and fast service. Noteworthy subsidiaries of Dropbox include HelloSign, which provides e-signature and document workflow solutions, and Paper, a collaborative workspace for teams. Dropbox is a major player in the cloud storage market and is known for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with other applications. The company competes with other cloud storage providers such as Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive. In terms of market position, Dropbox has a substantial user base and has been able to maintain its relevance in a highly competitive industry. Over the years, Dropbox has made notable achievements and changes to its product lineup. In 2018, the company went public and successfully raised funds through its initial public offering. Dropbox has also expanded its services beyond just cloud storage, offering features such as document collaboration and integrations with popular productivity tools. As of the latest updates, Dropbox continues to evolve its platform and expand its offerings. The company has introduced features to enhance team collaboration and improve security. Additionally, Dropbox has focused on integrating with other applications to provide a seamless user experience. Overall, Dropbox remains a prominent player in the cloud storage and file sharing market, consistently updating and improving its services to meet the needs of its users.