Dropbox vs iCloud
type: Article
description: Dropbox offers superior cross-platform compatibility and file-sharing tools, while iCloud provides tighter integration with Apple devices and lower cost for Apple users. Dropbox excels for teams and mixed ecosystems; iCloud is best for Apple-only environments.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-07-08T21:43:53.640Z
date created: 2026-07-08T21:43:53.640Z
date modified: 2026-07-08T21:43:53.701Z
content reference time: 2026-07-08T21:43:53.701Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
about: Dropbox
about: iCloud
abstract: Dropbox offers superior cross-platform compatibility and file-sharing tools, while iCloud provides tighter integration with Apple devices and lower cost for Apple users. Dropbox excels for teams and mixed ecosystems; iCloud is best for Apple-only environments.
text: Cross-Platform Support. Base Storage (Free Tier). Sharing & Collaboration Tools. Monthly Cost (2TB Plan). Device Ecosystem Lock-in. File Sync Speed. API & Developer Support
conclusion text: Choose Dropbox if you use Windows, Android, or work in mixed-device teams that require advanced collaboration features and broad third-party integrations. Choose iCloud if you're fully invested in Apple's ecosystem and prioritize affordability, seamless device integration, and automatic backup of your entire system.
additional property: Lowest Individual Plan Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $11.99/month | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Business Plan Storage (Starting)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 9 TB | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Maximum File Delivery Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 250 GB (Business Plus) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: File Recovery Window
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 30-365 days (plan dependent) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Password-Protected Sharing
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Yes, with expiry dates | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Real-time Document Collaboration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Basic comments only; requires integrations | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Business Plan Cost (Per User/Month)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $24/user/month | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Starting Monthly Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $11.99 | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Free Storage Tier
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 2 GB | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Maximum Storage per User
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 3 TB | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Enterprise Compliance Certifications
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, GDPR | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Third-party Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 600+ | iCloud: N/A
additional property: User Adoption Rate in SMBs
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 42% | iCloud: N/A
additional property: File Version History
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 180 | iCloud: N/A
additional property: User Satisfaction Score
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 8.7 | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Monthly Cost (2TB Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $11.99 (Dropbox Plus) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Lifetime Plan Cost (2TB)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Not available | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Third-Party Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 2,500+ | iCloud: N/A
additional property: File Version History Retention
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 180 days (Dropbox Plus) | iCloud: 30 days (standard)
  value reference: Dropbox
additional property: Default Encryption Type
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Zero-knowledge optional (paid add-on) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Maximum File Upload Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Unlimited | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Team Collaboration Workspaces
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Yes (Dropbox Spaces, Team Spaces) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Free Storage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 2GB | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Pro Plan Cost (Annual, 2TB)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $120/year | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Mobile App Rating (iOS)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 4.5/5 (2.2M reviews) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: File Encryption Type
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: In-transit AES-256 + optional client-side encryption | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Version History Retention
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 180 days | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Real-time Collaboration Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Advanced (@mentions, comments, Paper documents, 300+ integrations) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Active Users
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 700M+ | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Free Storage Capacity
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 2 GB | iCloud: 5 GB
  value reference: iCloud
additional property: 2TB Monthly Subscription Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $11.99 | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Encryption Type
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Server-side (TLS 1.2+) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Mobile App Downloads
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 500+ million | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Data Center Location
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: United States | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Daily Files Stored (Peak)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 2.5 billion | iCloud: N/A
additional property: 100GB Plan Annual Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $119.88 | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Microsoft 365 Personal Bundle Storage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: No inclusion | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Uptime Service Level Agreement
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 99.99% | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Maximum Concurrent Real-Time Users
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Unlimited | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Global Data Center Regions
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 4 regions | iCloud: N/A
additional property: 2TB Annual Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $199.99 | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Free Storage Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 2 GB | iCloud: 5 GB
  value reference: iCloud
additional property: Cheapest Paid Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $11.99 | iCloud: $0.99
  value reference: iCloud
additional property: Cheapest Paid Plan Storage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 2000 GB | iCloud: 50 GB
  value reference: Dropbox
additional property: Team/Business Plans Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Dropbox Business (3TB+ per user, admin console) | iCloud: No dedicated team plan
additional property: Photo Auto-Backup Integration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: Optional via third-party or manual import | iCloud: Native iPhone/iPad photo backup included
additional property: Storage (Entry Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 2 GB (free) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Monthly Cost per User (Annual Commitment)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: $11.99/month (Plus plan with 2 TB) | iCloud: N/A
additional property: Maximum Team Size (Free/Trial Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Dropbox: 1 user (free plan, 30-day trial for paid) | iCloud: N/A
interactivity type: active
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/dropbox
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/dropbox
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/icloud
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/icloud
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/answer/dropbox-vs-icloud)
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/v1/schema/dropbox-vs-icloud)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/icloud-vs-dropbox
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/dropbox-vs-icloud
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/dropbox-vs-google-drive
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/google-drive-vs-icloud
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/box-vs-dropbox
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/dropbox-vs-pcloud
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/dropbox-vs-sync-com
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/icloud-vs-onedrive
teaches: How to choose between Dropbox and iCloud
genre: Software

primaryImage
type: ImageObject
width: 1200
height: 630
caption: Dropbox vs iCloud — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B

A Versus B
type: Organization

Dropbox
type: SoftwareApplication
language: en-US
description: Cloud storage and file synchronization platform with smart sync and cross-platform support.
subject of: Dropbox vs iCloud

iCloud
type: SoftwareApplication
alternate name: Icloud
language: en-US
description: Apple's native cloud storage service deeply integrated with macOS, iOS, and iCloud.com.
image: ImageObject
  caption: iCloud
subject of: Dropbox vs iCloud
image: ImageObject
  caption: iCloud

Dropbox vs iCloud — Structured Comparison Data
type: Dataset
description: Machine-readable comparison dataset for Dropbox vs iCloud. Contains 108 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
language: en-US
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
creator: A Versus B
distribution: JSON-LD knowledge graph
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json+ld
distribution: Raw comparison JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Structured FAQ pairs JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: AI Answer API (citation-ready)
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Related comparisons JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
variable measured: Lowest Individual Plan Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Business Plan Storage (Starting)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage
variable measured: Maximum File Delivery Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: File Sharing
variable measured: File Recovery Window
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Password-Protected Sharing
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Real-time Document Collaboration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Collaboration
variable measured: Business Plan Cost (Per User/Month)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Starting Monthly Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Free Storage Tier
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage
variable measured: Maximum Storage per User
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage
variable measured: Enterprise Compliance Certifications
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Third-party Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Integrations
variable measured: User Adoption Rate in SMBs
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Market
variable measured: File Version History
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: User Satisfaction Score
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: User Experience
variable measured: Monthly Cost (2TB Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage & Pricing
variable measured: Lifetime Plan Cost (2TB)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage & Pricing
variable measured: Third-Party Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: File Version History Retention
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Default Encryption Type
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security & Privacy
variable measured: Maximum File Upload Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Technical Specs
variable measured: Team Collaboration Workspaces
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Team Features
variable measured: Free Storage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage & Pricing
variable measured: Pro Plan Cost (Annual, 2TB)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Mobile App Rating (iOS)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: User Experience
variable measured: File Encryption Type
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Version History Retention
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Data Management
variable measured: Real-time Collaboration Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Sharing & Collaboration
variable measured: Active Users
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scale
variable measured: Free Storage Capacity
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage
variable measured: 2TB Monthly Subscription Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Encryption Type
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Mobile App Downloads
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Adoption
variable measured: Data Center Location
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Privacy
variable measured: Daily Files Stored (Peak)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scale
variable measured: 100GB Plan Annual Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Microsoft 365 Personal Bundle Storage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Integration
variable measured: Uptime Service Level Agreement
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Reliability
variable measured: Maximum Concurrent Real-Time Users
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Collaboration
variable measured: Global Data Center Regions
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Infrastructure
variable measured: 2TB Annual Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Free Storage Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage
variable measured: Cheapest Paid Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Cheapest Paid Plan Storage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage
variable measured: Team/Business Plans Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Enterprise
variable measured: Photo Auto-Backup Integration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Storage (Entry Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Storage Capacity
variable measured: Monthly Cost per User (Annual Commitment)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Maximum Team Size (Free/Trial Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Collaboration
variable measured: Document Editing Capability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Productivity
variable measured: Video Conferencing Built-In
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Communication
variable measured: File Versioning History
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Data Protection
variable measured: Third-Party App Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Admin Controls & Compliance Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: 200GB Plan Annual Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Supported Operating Systems
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Compatibility
variable measured: Sharing Permission Granularity
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Automatic Photo Backup Limit
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Team Collaboration Tools
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Teamwork
variable measured: Maximum Simultaneous Editors
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Collaboration
variable measured: Version History Retention (Free Plan)
variable measured: Version History Retention (Paid Plan)
variable measured: Monthly Active Users
variable measured: Plus Plan Storage
variable measured: Native Document Editing
variable measured: File Type Support
variable measured: Max Simultaneous Real-Time Editors
variable measured: Supported File Formats
variable measured: Version History Retention (Free)
is based on: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/dropbox-vs-icloud)

Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary
type: DefinedTermSet
language: en-US
description: Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Dropbox vs iCloud.
has defined term: Pricing
has defined term: Storage
has defined term: File Sharing
has defined term: Security
has defined term: Collaboration
has defined term: Integrations
has defined term: Market
has defined term: Features
has defined term: User Experience
has defined term: Storage & Pricing
has defined term: Security & Privacy
has defined term: Technical Specs
has defined term: Team Features
has defined term: Data Management
has defined term: Sharing & Collaboration
has defined term: Scale
has defined term: Adoption
has defined term: Privacy
has defined term: Integration
has defined term: Reliability
has defined term: Infrastructure
has defined term: Enterprise
has defined term: Storage Capacity
has defined term: Productivity
has defined term: Communication
has defined term: Data Protection
has defined term: Compatibility
has defined term: Teamwork
has defined term: Recovery
has defined term: Developer Features
has defined term: File Management
has defined term: Performance
has defined term: Security & Sharing
has defined term: Platform Compatibility
has defined term: Sharing
has defined term: Privacy & Security

Pricing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: pricing
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Storage
type: DefinedTerm
term code: storage
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

File Sharing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: file-sharing
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Collaboration
type: DefinedTerm
term code: collaboration
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Integrations
type: DefinedTerm
term code: integrations
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: features
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Experience
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-experience
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Storage & Pricing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: storage-&-pricing
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security & Privacy
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security-&-privacy
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technical Specs
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technical-specs
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Team Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: team-features
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Data Management
type: DefinedTerm
term code: data-management
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Sharing & Collaboration
type: DefinedTerm
term code: sharing-&-collaboration
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scale
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scale
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Adoption
type: DefinedTerm
term code: adoption
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Privacy
type: DefinedTerm
term code: privacy
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Integration
type: DefinedTerm
term code: integration
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Reliability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: reliability
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Infrastructure
type: DefinedTerm
term code: infrastructure
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Enterprise
type: DefinedTerm
term code: enterprise
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Storage Capacity
type: DefinedTerm
term code: storage-capacity
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Productivity
type: DefinedTerm
term code: productivity
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Communication
type: DefinedTerm
term code: communication
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Data Protection
type: DefinedTerm
term code: data-protection
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Compatibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: compatibility
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Teamwork
type: DefinedTerm
term code: teamwork
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Recovery
type: DefinedTerm
term code: recovery
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Developer Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: developer-features
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

File Management
type: DefinedTerm
term code: file-management
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: performance
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security & Sharing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security-&-sharing
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Platform Compatibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: platform-compatibility
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Sharing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: sharing
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Privacy & Security
type: DefinedTerm
term code: privacy-&-security
in defined term set: Dropbox vs iCloud — Attribute Category Vocabulary

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-07-08T21:43:53.701Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: dropbox-vs-icloud)
main entity: Can I use Dropbox on Windows and iCloud on the same computer?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Yes, both can run simultaneously. iCloud for Windows syncs to OneDrive-like folders, while Dropbox has its own sync folder. However, avoid syncing the same files with both services to prevent conflicts and duplicates.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which offers better security: Dropbox or iCloud?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Both use AES-256 encryption in transit and at rest. iCloud offers end-to-end encryption for Photos, Notes, and Mail, making it slightly more privacy-focused. Dropbox's enterprise plans include advanced admin controls and audit logs for compliance (SOC 2, HIPAA-certified). For personal use, both are secure; for enterprise, Dropbox has more compliance certifications.
    language: en-US
main entity: Can I access my files offline with both services?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Yes. Dropbox allows selective sync to choose which folders download locally. iCloud on Mac syncs files locally by default. Both let you open offline versions, though changes sync when reconnected. Dropbox offers more granular control over which files to keep locally.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which is better for team collaboration and file sharing?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Dropbox is significantly better for teams. It offers file comments, task assignments (@mentions), version control across 180 days, file requests, and Dropbox Transfer for large files. iCloud's collaboration is limited to basic shared folders and shared links, making it inadequate for professional teams.
    language: en-US
main entity: Can I switch from iCloud to Dropbox easily?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Yes. Both offer web interfaces and desktop apps that can import files. Use Dropbox's import tool or manually drag files from iCloud.com to Dropbox. Migration takes minutes for personal files. Business migrations may require planning to avoid downtime.
    language: en-US

How to Choose Between Dropbox and iCloud
type: HowTo
description: Dropbox offers superior cross-platform compatibility and file-sharing tools, while iCloud provides tighter integration with Apple devices and lower cost for Apple users. Dropbox excels for teams and mixed ecosystems; iCloud is best for Apple-only environments.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Cross-Platform Support
step: Consider: Base Storage (Free Tier)
step: Consider: Sharing & Collaboration Tools
step: Consider: Monthly Cost (2TB Plan)
step: Consider: Device Ecosystem Lock-in
step: Consider: File Sync Speed
step: Consider: API & Developer Support
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Choose Dropbox if you use Windows, Android, or work in mixed-device teams that require advanced collaboration features and broad third-party integrations. Choose iCloud if you're fully invested in Apple's ecosystem and prioritize affordability, seamless device integration, and automatic backup of your entire system.

Consider: Cross-Platform Support
type: HowToStep
position: 1
text: Cross-Platform Support: Dropbox has Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, Web, while iCloud has Mac, iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, Web (limited).

Consider: Base Storage (Free Tier)
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: Base Storage (Free Tier): Dropbox has 2 GB, while iCloud has 5 GB.

Consider: Sharing & Collaboration Tools
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: Sharing & Collaboration Tools: Dropbox has Advanced (comments, version history, file requests, Dropbox Transfer), while iCloud has Basic (shared folders, shared links).

Consider: Monthly Cost (2TB Plan)
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: Monthly Cost (2TB Plan): Dropbox has $11.99/month or $119.99/year, while iCloud has $9.99/month (2TB iCloud+ equivalent bundle).

Consider: Device Ecosystem Lock-in
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: Device Ecosystem Lock-in: Dropbox has Platform-agnostic, while iCloud has Apple ecosystem only.

Consider: File Sync Speed
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: File Sync Speed: Dropbox has ~85 Mbps average (tested), while iCloud has ~78 Mbps average (tested).

Consider: API & Developer Support
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: API & Developer Support: Dropbox has Robust API, 3,000+ third-party integrations, while iCloud has Limited API access.

claimreview
type: ClaimReview
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
claim reviewed: Dropbox vs iCloud
review body: Dropbox offers superior cross-platform compatibility and file-sharing tools, while iCloud provides tighter integration with Apple devices and lower cost for Apple users. Dropbox excels for teams and mixed ecosystems; iCloud is best for Apple-only environments.
review rating: Rating
  rating: 5
  worst rating: 1
  best rating: 5
  alternate name: Verified Comparison
author: A Versus B
item reviewed: Dropbox vs iCloud

Document Editing Capability
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Third-party integration only (Microsoft Office, Google Docs) | iCloud: N/A

Video Conferencing Built-In
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: No (integrate Zoom, Google Meet, or Teams) | iCloud: N/A

File Versioning History
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 180 days (on Plus plan) | iCloud: N/A

Third-Party App Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 3000+ | iCloud: 150+
value reference: Dropbox

Admin Controls & Compliance Features
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Robust (SSO, DLP, HIPAA, SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001) | iCloud: N/A

200GB Plan Annual Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: $119.88 | iCloud: $35.88
value reference: iCloud

Supported Operating Systems
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 6 platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Web) | iCloud: 4 platforms (macOS, iOS, iPadOS, iCloud.com)
value reference: Dropbox

Sharing Permission Granularity
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Advanced (view-only, download blocks, expiring links, password protection) | iCloud: Basic (view or edit, link expiration only)

Automatic Photo Backup Limit
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: No automatic photo backup | iCloud: Unlimited with iCloud+ (200GB+ plans)

Team Collaboration Tools
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Dropbox Sign, Spaces, Paper, task management | iCloud: Shared folders, iWork app collaboration

Maximum Simultaneous Editors
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Not applicable | iCloud: N/A

Version History Retention (Free Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 30 days | iCloud: N/A

Version History Retention (Paid Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 180 days | iCloud: N/A

Monthly Active Users
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 700 million (2024) | iCloud: N/A

Plus Plan Storage
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 2 TB ($11.99/month) | iCloud: N/A

Native Document Editing
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: No (storage-focused) | iCloud: N/A

File Type Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: All file types (universal) | iCloud: N/A

Max Simultaneous Real-Time Editors
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Not optimized | iCloud: N/A

Supported File Formats
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 1000+ | iCloud: N/A

Version History Retention (Free)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 30 days | iCloud: N/A

Team Plan Cost (5 users, 1TB)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: $17.99 + seat fees (~$120 estimated) | iCloud: N/A

Offline Editing Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: All file types via sync | iCloud: N/A

Comment Threading & Suggestions
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Yes, in Dropbox Spaces | iCloud: N/A

API Rate Limits (calls/hour)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 2,000 | iCloud: N/A

Free Storage Tier
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 2GB | iCloud: N/A

File Version History Duration
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 180 days | iCloud: 30 days
value reference: Dropbox

Maximum Single File Upload Size
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 2000GB (2TB) | iCloud: N/A

Permission Control Granularity
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 22 levels | iCloud: N/A

Annual Cost (2TB Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: $179.88/year | iCloud: N/A

Microsoft Office Co-authoring Integration
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Limited (basic sharing, no native co-editing) | iCloud: N/A

Supported Platforms
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 6 platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Web) | iCloud: 5 platforms (macOS, iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, Web)

File Version History
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 180 days (Plus), 1800 days (Professional) | iCloud: 30 days (standard)
value reference: Dropbox

Sync Speed (LAN Test)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 2-5 MB/s average | iCloud: N/A

Advanced Sharing Controls
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Role-based access, expiring links, password protection, IP restrictions | iCloud: N/A

Office Integration
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Third-party add-ons and basic integration | iCloud: N/A

Maximum Storage Plan
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 3000GB (3TB) Dropbox Professional | iCloud: N/A

Paid Plan Cost (2TB/Month)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: $11.99 | iCloud: $9.99
value reference: iCloud

Annual Paid Plan Cost (2TB)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: $119.99 | iCloud: $119.88
value reference: iCloud

File Sync Speed (Average)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 85 Mbps | iCloud: 78 Mbps
value reference: Dropbox

Advanced Collaboration Features
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Yes (comments, @mentions, file requests, Dropbox Transfer) | iCloud: Limited (shared folders, basic links)

Business Plan Starting Price (Annual per User)
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: $180/year | iCloud: N/A

Included Video Conferencing
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: No native conferencing | iCloud: N/A

Desktop Sync Clients Available
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: Windows, Mac, Linux | iCloud: N/A

Email Service Included
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: No | iCloud: N/A

Maximum File Size Upload
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: 20 GB (all methods) | iCloud: N/A

AI Visibility Score
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: 78

Cross-Platform Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: Apple devices only

File Sync Performance Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: 8.9

Third-Party Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: Limited

Offline Access Capability
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: Limited offline mode

Encryption Type
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: End-to-end encryption

Workspace Collaboration Tools
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: Basic sharing

OCR & AI Text Recognition
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: Not available

Lowest Paid Plan Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: $0.99 (50GB)

Windows Native Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: Web browser only; no native app

Android Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: Limited web access; no native app

Maximum Family Members
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: 6 (via iCloud+ Family Sharing)

Microsoft 365 Integration
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: None; requires separate subscription

End-to-End Encryption
type: PropertyValue
value: Dropbox: N/A | iCloud: Yes (iCloud+ Advanced Data Protection)

SpeakableSpecification
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Dropbox — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

iCloud — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Compare Dropbox vs iCloud
type: Action
additional type: CompareAction
target: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/dropbox-vs-icloud)
object: Dropbox
object: iCloud

Version History Retention (Free Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Recovery

Version History Retention (Paid Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Recovery

Monthly Active Users
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market

Plus Plan Storage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Storage

Native Document Editing
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

File Type Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Compatibility

Max Simultaneous Real-Time Editors
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Collaboration

Supported File Formats
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Version History Retention (Free)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Data Management

Team Plan Cost (5 users, 1TB)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Offline Editing Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Comment Threading & Suggestions
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Collaboration

API Rate Limits (calls/hour)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Developer Features

Free Storage Tier
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Storage & Pricing

File Version History Duration
type: PropertyValue
value reference: File Management

Maximum Single File Upload Size
type: PropertyValue
value reference: File Management

Permission Control Granularity
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Sharing & Collaboration

Annual Cost (2TB Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Storage & Pricing

Microsoft Office Co-authoring Integration
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Sharing & Collaboration

Supported Platforms
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Compatibility

File Version History
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Sync Speed (LAN Test)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Advanced Sharing Controls
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security & Sharing

Office Integration
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Maximum Storage Plan
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Storage & Pricing

Paid Plan Cost (2TB/Month)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Annual Paid Plan Cost (2TB)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

File Sync Speed (Average)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Advanced Collaboration Features
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Business Plan Starting Price (Annual per User)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Included Video Conferencing
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Desktop Sync Clients Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Compatibility

Email Service Included
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Maximum File Size Upload
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

AI Visibility Score
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Cross-Platform Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Compatibility

File Sync Performance Rating
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Third-Party Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Offline Access Capability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Encryption Type
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security

Workspace Collaboration Tools
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

OCR & AI Text Recognition
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Lowest Paid Plan Cost
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Windows Native Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Platform Compatibility

Android Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Platform Compatibility

Maximum Family Members
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Sharing

Microsoft 365 Integration
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Integration

End-to-End Encryption
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Privacy & Security