What is our primary use case?
We use Dropbox for three main reasons. First, it provides a safe backup of our critical files without individual backups. We simply utilize Dropbox's synchronization feature to ensure that our local drives and Dropbox are always in sync.
Second, Dropbox allows us to share files with our clients easily. As long as Dropbox is installed on the computer, whether within our company, on our laptop, or another family computer, we can access our files from any of these locations.
Third, Dropbox synchronizes documents between our mobile phones and our Dropbox accounts.
What is most valuable?
The important features are safe storage, seamless synchronization between different devices, and the security protection built around Dropbox, keeping my files intact and accessible to others.
What needs improvement?
Microsoft OneDrive offers one terabyte of free storage with its Microsoft 365 Family plan. I primarily use it to store my most recent, critical files, such as project documentation and similar items, but the bulk is stored on OneDrive due to its free storage plan. Dropbox's limited storage capacity has compelled me to rely heavily on OneDrive. Dropbox can effectively compete with Microsoft regarding storage capacity. There could be flexibility in terms of pricing.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have been using Dropbox for 12 years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
The solution is stable.
I rate the solution’s stability a nine out of ten.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
The solution is scalable.
Dropbox offers a free personal plan with limited storage, but additional storage can be purchased in increments of 2GB, 1TB, and 2 TB. While this provides some flexibility in scaling storage capacity, it does not offer a continuous spectrum of options. Instead, users must choose from these predefined tiers. It is a scalability limitation, as it may not perfectly align with individual storage needs. For instance, if users require more than 2GB but less than 1TB, they still have to pay for the 1TB tier. However, the price difference between the tiers is relatively small, so the overall impact of this limitation may be minimal for most users.
How are customer service and support?
I had a technical issue with a mobile phone application that utilized Dropbox as a backup service. The application itself was not cloud-based, but it relied on Dropbox for storing backup data. The backup included financial information, notes, Exchange data, and task manager data. The issue was resolved by contacting the technical support of the specific application.
How was the initial setup?
The initial setup is very easy. Dropbox has special features like a corporate catalog allowing limited access to corporate files. It is quite simple to share files with Dropbox or use Dropbox with others to create dedicated libraries. I used it with my colleagues a couple of times.
I downloaded the Dropbox application on my laptop and phone and initiated the installation. The installation was straightforward and quick. I reinstall my computer every other year, and reinstalling Dropbox is simple. I only need to provide my email address and password and may need to respond to a two-factor authentication prompt sent via SMS. The entire installation process is user-friendly and effortless.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
Dropbox has become much more affordable in recent years. About two or three years ago, I was seriously considering how to structure my backups, file storage, and file sharing within my family. Dropbox was a viable option, even though I was willing to pay for its services.
I pay ten euros monthly for Dropbox, which is 120 euros/year. I have two terabytes of storage, and I'm also paying for Microsoft Office Home, which costs around 100 dollars/year. For the same price, I get half the storage with Dropbox. The complete Office suite package gives access to Word, Excel, Outlook, and other applications.
What other advice do I have?
Dropbox is a cloud-based solution that provides a synchronized local storage experience. This means you can access your files locally, even when not online. When reconnecting to the internet, Dropbox automatically synchronizes your local files with the cloud-based files. This ensures that you always have the most up-to-date version of your files, regardless of your device or location.
Users should clearly define their cloud storage needs before selecting a tool. They should consider factors such as file access frequency, storage requirements, collaboration needs, and cost-effectiveness. Different cloud storage solutions offer unique advantages, and an optimal solution may involve a combination of services. For instance, Dropbox is not always the best choice for storing large video files or photos. OneDrive offers a more flexible approach to file synchronization, allowing users to selectively sync files between their computer(s) and the cloud. This can help conserve storage space on local devices. Additionally, uploading files to OneDrive may be faster than uploading them to Dropbox.
To optimize cloud storage usage, users should categorize their files based on access frequency, update frequency, and number of users. They should then develop an individualized strategy incorporating a mix of cloud storage solutions, such as OneDrive, Dropbox, and Google Drive. Google Drive is a suitable option for storing and syncing images, photos, videos from mobile devices, and Gmail messages. It can also be an external storage solution for various files, such as contacts and project documents.
Overall, I rate the solution a nine out of ten.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
Public Cloud
Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.