Difference Between iCloud and Dropbox (With Table)

We all are aware of Cloud Storage Applications. These applications help us to store our important works such as documents, photos, videos, important files, etc. The users can be relieved as their sensitive data is safe inside the cloud. Also, one more benefit of these applications is that now people do not require to carry their documents with themselves, and they can print their files whenever necessary. Here, iCloud and Dropbox are such Cloud Storage Applications, and we are going to discuss them in detail.

iCloud vs Dropbox

The main difference between iCloud and Dropbox is the availability of their respective platforms. iCloud is the kind of Cloud Storage Application that is a great deal for iOS users. On the other hand, Dropbox does not have any limitations in terms of platforms and therefore it can be used by any platform.

iCloud is a Cloud Storage Application that was introduced by Apple. It also works as a computing service. iCloud has a limitation and hence this limitation binds it only to associate with the iOS users.

On the other hand, Dropbox Cloud Storage Application is a self-branding company that was established by Dropbox itself. Dropbox has no barriers and therefore it can be used by both iOS as well as Android users. There are many amazing features of Dropbox.

Comparison Table Between iCloud and Dropbox

Parameters of Comparison

iCloud

Dropbox

Extra Storage

iCloud offers extra storage of 5GB.

2GB of extra storage capacity is allowed in Dropbox.

Price

It is noticed that iCloud comparatively charges more money.

Dropbox is cheaper than iCloud.

Platforms

iCloud is limited only to iOS and Mac users.

Dropbox is available to use on any platform.

Users

According to sources, it has been calculated that there are more iCloud users.

There are comparatively fewer Dropbox users

Speed

The speed capacity of iCloud has been identified as way faster than Dropbox.

Dropbox is not slow but it is comparatively lacking behind in speed as compared to iCloud.

What is iCloud?

Cloud storages applications have become an important aspect of our life as it enables us to store important data, that we might not want to loos it. And iCloud is one such storage application that is specially designed for iOS and Mac users. Therefore, in other words, iCloud is only supported in the devices that are manufactured by Apple. iCloud was initially released on 12th Oct 2011. And since then its has been regarded as a useful tool for iOS and Mac users. iCloud allows storing about 50 GB max file capacity. And, as a bonus point, it gives about an extra 5GB storage capacity.

According to the features provided by iCloud, its charges are also quite expensive. Since this is designed for iOS users we can term it exclusive and luxurious for those users. And, though some sources we also came to know that there is a larger population that users iCloud for storage. And, one more thing that is needed to be noted is that the process of sharing the exclusive files is accomplished via links only.

The speed quality of iCloud is also faster and does not create any problem during transferring files. And, iCloud’s privacy has been authorized with 128 bit AES encryption. And this application is not that complex to use for the people associated with other related Apple devices.

What is Dropbox?

We all have heard about the cloud application named Dropbox and its amazing features. This application was established by Dropbox Incorporations themselves. It is a North American company and the headquarters has been situated in San Fransico, California. This application was structured and released on 11Sep, 2008. And it’s been many years since people have been loving it thoroughly. Any kind of platform such as both iOs and Android can enjoy the accessibility of Dropbox. Since its advent, it has changed people’s lives in various directions.

Dropbox has a website file size of 10GB and is also provided with an extra storage capacity of 2TB through the applications available on desktops and mobiles. And, comes with a bonus storage capacity of 2GB. Dropbox charges money every month which is quite affordable as per the features provided by them. And, the files can only be transferred through desktop and mobile applications.

According to the 2021 reports, it is noted that there are only limited Dropbox users, and are happy with the application. The file-sharing speed of Dropbox is not that bad. And, it takes care of the privacy of the users. About 256-bit AES encryption has been offered by Dropbox. Overall, Dropbox is a good Cloud Storage Application.

Main Differences Between iCloud and Dropbox

  1. The iCloud users are benefited from an extra 5GB of space and on the other hand, the users of Dropbox only get 2GB of data space.
  2. The monthly charges of iCloud are quite expensive and on the other hand, Dropbox charges quite cheaper than iCloud.
  3. iCloud users can only use this application on their iOS or Mac devices and on the other hand, Dropbox allows its users to use Dropbox on any platform accordingly.
  4. The sum of iCloud users is more and on the other hand, comparatively, there are only a few Dropbox users.
  5. iCloud users enjoy high and good quality speed. On the other hand, the speed of Dropbox is a bit slower.

Conclusion

Cloud Storage System has benefited almost everyone as they keep our data safe and secure. There are many Cloud Storage Applications in the market and here we have discussed iCloud and Dropbox. The iOS device users can only tell there pros and cons of iCloud and on the other hand, both iOS, as well as Android users, can tell about the pros and cons of Dropbox. It depends upon the device in which the users use their applications. But, both the applications work amazingly.

References

  1. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-4302-6029-5_8
  2. https://dl.acm.org/doi/abs/10.1145/2398776.2398827