Best Lesser-Known Free Cloud Storage Services

Cloud storage is a convenient way to store and access your files whenever and wherever you need them or to share them with your friends, family members, and coworkers. You're probably familiar with the big names like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. While these platforms offer reliable storage solutions and free plans, there are also many excellent alternative options that deserve your attention. Here's our selection of the best lesser-known services that provide free cloud storage without compromising on security and functionality.

MEGA

MEGA offers 20 GB of free storage upon sign-up, which is one of the most generous free plans out there. Moreover, you can increase your free space by completing various achievements like installing the desktop and mobile app. Each action will earn you an additional 5 GB of free storage, which remains valid for one year. You can also get an extra 5 GB of free space for each person you invite and who installs the app. MEGA's zero-knowledge encryption, unlimited file size, and seamless file-sharing capabilities allow you to store and share your files with others easily and securely.

Download: iOS, Android, Desktop.

pCloud

pCloud is another reliable cloud storage service known for its focus on security and versatility. You can get up to 10 GB of free storage, but to unlock all of this space, you need to complete some simple tasks like following the beginner's tutorial or inviting friends. This service provides advanced file management features, including file versioning, file encryption, and remote upload capabilities. pCloud also doesn't limit file size and offers seamless synchronization across multiple devices and with popular applications, ensuring you can access your files anytime and anywhere.

Download: iOS, Android, Desktop.

Sync

Sync provides 5 GB of free storage when you sign up, but you can earn an additional 20 GB by referring your friends. It's one of the most secure cloud storage services with two-factor authentication (2FA), end-to-end encryption, remote device lockout, and password-protected sharing. You can create shared folders to share your files with others and sync up to five devices. There is also a cloud-only storage space called Vault, where you can back up files you don't need to sync to your other devices. You can upload or download as much data as you want as long as you have enough space in your account.

Download: iOS, Android, Desktop.

Filen

Filen is a relatively new player in the cloud storage market but has quickly gained traction for its substantial free plan, robust security measures, and excellent features. Its free plan offers 10 GB of cloud storage and, most importantly, all the features included in the paid plans, apart from storage allowance. If you need more storage, you can get it for free by inviting friends. Security measures include end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication for enhanced protection of user data. Filen's simplicity and reliability make it a hidden gem worth exploring.

Download: iOS, Android, Desktop.

IceDrive

IceDrive is also a relative newcomer to the scene, but it has already proven itself as an excellent service with its user-friendly interface, features, and a strong commitment to security and privacy. You get 10 GB of free cloud storage when you create an account. One of its best features is the Virtual Drive for PC, which lets you use your cloud storage space directly from desktop software as if it were another hard drive, without the need to synchronize data manually. IceDrive is among the fastest cloud storage services, and you can easily access your files across multiple devices.

Download: iOS, Android, Desktop.

Box

While primarily targeted toward businesses, Box offers a free personal plan with 10 GB of cloud storage, along with file sharing, collaboration tools, two-factor authentication, and mobile access. You can even get additional free storage during their promotional periods. Box Canvas, built-in integrations with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, and note-taking and project management are some of its best features. Although Box's free plan has some limitations compared to its paid plans, it provides a solid foundation for users to securely store and share their files.

Download: iOS, Android, Desktop.

Tresorit

Tresorit has a free plan with 3GB of storage, 500 MB maximum file size, an option to connect up to two devices, and limited access to its essential features. While it may provide less free storage than the other services on this list and limits file size, it ranks among the most secure cloud storage services. It offers end-to-end encryption for your entire account and free email plugins to encrypt email attachments (Gmail and Outlook), making it a great option for those prioritizing security and privacy. Tresorit is available on all platforms and has an easy-to-use interface.

Download: iOS, Android, Desktop.