TOP 7 Affordable Cloud Solutions in Europe: 2025 Guide
6 min read
Finding an affordable cloud service in 2025 has become a real challenge in a market where American giants hold 72% dominance. The online storage sector is intensely competitive, while the European cloud services market is projected to reach 110 billion euros by 2028, with an impressive annual growth rate of 23%. Given this landscape, we have compared the best cloud storage solutions to help you make the most suitable choice for your needs. Our cloud comparison highlights cost-effective European alternatives, including Drime, a French solution offering 20 GB of free storage and plans starting at just €2.39 per month for 500 GB. Among other notable options are pCloud with its lifetime offers up to 10 TB, Internxt offering 2 TB for less than €200, and MEGA standing out with its free online cloud storage of 20 GB. Whether you're looking for secure professional cloud storage or simply the most affordable cloud for your personal needs, this guide details the specifics of each service - from data security to collaborative features, along with various pricing options.
Drime
In terms of affordable cloud storage, Drime positions itself as an innovative French solution that combines security, collaboration, and competitive pricing. This European alternative deserves special attention for anyone seeking reliable online storage without breaking the bank.
Drime Data Security
Data protection is Drime's absolute priority. The service implements AES 256-bit encryption, considered the highest available standard. This security level is so robust that it would take billions of years to crack a protected file using current technologies.
Furthermore, Drime employs SSL/TLS encryption technology to protect data in transit. To maximize availability, your files are distributed across clusters with triple replication for each element. This architecture ensures that even if one server fails, your data remains accessible.
The system also includes DDoS protection, ensuring constant and secure access to your data. To precisely control who can access your information, Drime offers granular permissions at the file and folder level, with the option to add password protection.
Drime Collaborative Features
Drime particularly excels in its team collaboration features. The platform enables dynamic collaboration with real-time document editing. You can work seamlessly with colleagues and clients - commenting, sharing, editing, and organizing everything in a single secure space.
One of Drime's strengths is that it facilitates exchanges even with collaborators who don't have an account on the platform. Gone are the days of back-and-forth emails or connection obstacles. The service centralizes your revisions across all file formats - videos, photos, documents, designs, PDFs.
Precise comments directly on visuals, videos, or documents streamline creative feedback. To quickly find your files, Drime offers advanced filters and a powerful search engine. You can also track who has opened, viewed, or downloaded your content.
Drime Pricing and Plans
Drime offers a range of pricing options tailored to different needs, with a 20% discount on annual subscriptions.
The Starter plan at $2.39 per month (billed annually) or $2.99 monthly provides 500GB of storage, easy and secure sharing, 30-day file history, an AI assistant, up to 5 members/workspaces, and 3 signature requests.
The Plus plan at $4.40 per month (annual) or $5.50 (monthly) includes 2TB of storage, password-protected links, custom expiration dates, 90-day history, and up to 15 members.
For medium-sized teams, the Professional plan costs $8.79 per month (annual) or $10.99 (monthly) with 3TB of storage, advanced role and member permissions, team activity management, and up to 25 members.
Finally, the Advanced plan at $15.99 per month (annual) or $19.99 (monthly) offers 6TB of storage, compliance monitoring, and up to 100 members.
For those who want to test the service, Drime also offers a free version with 20GB of storage.
Drime GDPR Compliance
In a context where personal data protection is becoming crucial, Drime commits to complying with European laws, among the strictest in terms of data protection. This compliance is particularly important for companies handling European citizens' data.
GDPR requires organizations to process personal data "lawfully, fairly, and transparently." Drime meets this requirement by allowing users to manage who has access to their files and workspaces and control their permissions.
Moreover, Drime's storage servers cover all regulatory compliance and data protection needs, including GDPR, SOC 1-2-3, HIPAA & HITECH, HDS, PCI DSS, CSA STAR, EBA, and more.
Unlike many providers, Drime hosts your data in Europe, significantly simplifying GDPR compliance. This also ensures that your data isn't subject to jurisdictions outside the EU, providing additional peace of mind for businesses concerned about their legal obligations.
Drime's commitment to environmental sustainability is also noteworthy. Currently, all their storage servers are powered by 78% renewable energy, with a target to reach 100% by 2025.
pCloud
Among the affordable cloud solutions available in the European market, pCloud stands out particularly for its unique lifetime plans and enhanced security system. Let's explore the features that make this service an interesting alternative, although different from Drime's collaborative approach.
pCloud Security and Encryption
Security at pCloud is built on multiple layers of protection. The service employs TLS/SSL encryption by default to secure transfers between your device and their servers. All stored data is also protected with AES 256-bit encryption during and after transfer.
A distinctive feature of pCloud is its client-side encryption functionality called "pCloud Encryption." This additional paid option allows users to protect their confidential files with an advanced security system. The encryption process occurs directly on the user's device before files are sent to the cloud, ensuring that no unencrypted version ever leaves your device.
pCloud also distinguishes itself by offering both encrypted and non-encrypted folders within the same account. This hybrid approach enables users to utilize server functionalities (previews, media transcoding) on non-encrypted files while maintaining maximum security for sensitive documents.
For data protection, pCloud maintains five copies of each file across at least three different server locations. Additionally, being a Swiss-based company, your data benefits from Swiss data protection laws, which are renowned for being among the world's most stringent.
pCloud Lifetime Plans
One of pCloud's most attractive features lies in its "Lifetime" plans. Unlike most cloud storage services that operate exclusively on subscription models, pCloud offers one-time payment options that provide access to the service for what they define as "lifetime" (technically 99 years or the account holder's lifetime, whichever is shorter).
The concept is straightforward: instead of paying a monthly or annual subscription, you make a single payment for permanent access to your storage space. Three main plans are available:
Premium (500 GB)
Premium Plus (2 TB)
Custom (up to 10 TB)
It's worth noting that the Lifetime Premium and Premium Plus plans don't include pCloud Encryption, which must be purchased separately. However, if you decide to add this feature later, you can also opt for a "Lifetime" version of pCloud Encryption.
For users who decide to increase their storage capacity, pCloud allows upgrades to Lifetime accounts. In such cases, the initially acquired storage adds to the new plan. For example, a user upgrading from a 500 GB plan to 2 TB will end up with 2.5 TB of space.
pCloud Cross-Platform Compatibility
Cross-platform accessibility is another strength of pCloud. The service is available on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. This extensive compatibility ensures you can access your files from any device and sync them automatically.
On computers, pCloud Drive functions as a virtual disk, providing access to files without consuming local hard drive space. For mobile users, the pCloud app enables viewing, editing, and sharing files on the go.
Real-time synchronization across different devices allows users to seamlessly transition from working on a document at home to continuing on a mobile device without interruption.
While this extensive compatibility is convenient, it's worth noting that pCloud's collaborative features are less comprehensive compared to Drime, which offers real-time collaborative editing and precise feedback tools for various file formats.
Finally, it's important to highlight that pCloud also provides access to files through any web browser, further enhancing its multi-platform flexibility.
Internxt
In the realm of affordable cloud storage solutions, Internxt stands out as a Spanish alternative that distinguishes itself through its radical approach to security and privacy. This platform is particularly notable for its unique architecture and strong commitment to protecting user data.
Internxt Decentralized Architecture
Unlike traditional solutions such as Drime that store your files on highly secure centralized servers, Internxt takes a fundamentally different approach. The service employs a system where files are fragmented before encryption. Consequently, each server never stores a complete file, only an encrypted fragment.
This decentralized approach offers several key advantages. First, even if a server is compromised or the entire network experiences an attack, the information remains inaccessible since the encryption/decryption protocol requires client-side data. Additionally, all Internxt servers are located within the European Union, ensuring complete compliance with GDPR regulations.
Internxt's decentralized architecture is strengthened by its fully open-source code, published on GitHub. This transparency enables anyone to independently verify the system's integrity and quickly identify potential vulnerabilities. The company has been audited by Securitum, a European firm specializing in penetration testing.
Internxt Zero-Knowledge Policy
The cornerstone of Internxt's approach lies in its "zero-knowledge" policy. This concept means that only the user can access their data. Files are end-to-end encrypted using AES-256 algorithm before leaving your device, preventing anyone, including Internxt, from accessing your information.
Internxt also distinguishes itself by implementing post-quantum Kyber-512 cryptography. This technology aims to protect data against future threats posed by quantum computers, which could potentially break traditional encryption methods. This forward-thinking approach ensures that your files remain secure not only today but also against tomorrow's technological advances.
For privacy-conscious users, this system provides substantial peace of mind. However, this enhanced security comes with some limitations in terms of collaborative features compared to Drime, which offers real-time editing and precise commenting capabilities across various file formats.
Internxt Cloud Storage Pricing
Regarding affordable cloud storage, Internxt offers several plans tailored to different needs and budgets. The service provides a free account with 1 GB of storage, significantly less generous than Drime's 20 GB offering.
For annual premium plans, pricing starts at $1.47 per month for 1TB and goes up to $4.42 per month for 5TB. While these rates are competitive, it's Internxt's lifetime plans that truly set it apart in the affordable cloud storage market:
2TB for $195 as a one-time payment
5TB for $410 as a one-time payment
10TB for $625 as a one-time payment
These lifetime offers provide exceptional long-term value. For instance, the 2TB plan at $195 becomes cost-effective after just two years of use. However, it's worth noting that these remarkably attractive offers might not be available indefinitely, as they primarily serve as a customer acquisition strategy.
Additionally, Internxt offers more comprehensive plans with extra features. The Essential plan, priced at $10.99 monthly (billed annually), includes 1TB of storage, post-quantum encryption, unlimited VPN access, antivirus protection, file backup, and password-protected file sharing capabilities.
While these offerings are economically attractive, they don't match Drime's extensive feature set, particularly in terms of PDF editing, electronic signatures, and advanced collaborative functionalities.
Ultimately, Internxt presents a viable option for users who prioritize data privacy and seek affordable cloud storage solutions with long-term benefits through its lifetime plans. However, for those who value collaboration and advanced features, other solutions like Drime might prove more suitable.
IceDrive
With its unique lifetime plan model and distinctive encryption algorithm, IceDrive stands out as a singular player in the affordable cloud storage market. However, unlike Drime which excels in team collaboration, IceDrive focuses more on individual security and one-time payments.
IceDrive Twofish Encryption
IceDrive fundamentally differentiates itself from other services through its exclusive use of the Twofish algorithm for data encryption. While most cloud storage providers employ the AES standard, Twofish is widely recognized by cryptographers as a more secure solution. Developed by Bruce Schneier and Counterpane Labs in 1998, this algorithm remains unbroken to this day.
IceDrive's security system operates through a meticulous process. Files are first divided into small fragments, with each fragment encrypted directly on the user's device before transfer. This method ensures that no one, not even IceDrive, can access the content – guaranteeing a true "zero-knowledge" policy. Additionally, each encrypted fragment is individually transmitted to secure servers and benefits from double encryption in transit via HTTPS.
However, unlike Drime which offers advanced collaborative functions with its AES 256-bit encryption, IceDrive prioritizes individual security at the expense of real-time team working capabilities.
IceDrive User Interface
IceDrive's web application has been designed with simplicity and user-friendliness in mind, offering compatibility with all modern browsers and adapting seamlessly to any screen size. The interface comes packed with several practical features:
Full support for drag-and-drop functionality, right-click operations, and keyboard shortcuts
Preview capability for all popular document types and vector files
Direct browser streaming for audio and video files
Advanced upload system enabling simultaneous transfer of multiple files
IceDrive's fragment-based upload method ensures a stable connection, even when transferring large files. However, while functional, this interface doesn't match Drime's collaborative editing capabilities, which allow PDF modifications, precise commenting across different formats, and integration with plugins like ChatGPT.
IceDrive Lifetime Plans
IceDrive offers two subscription types: standard plans and lifetime plans. The lifetime plans represent IceDrive's major advantage in the affordable cloud space, allowing users to acquire storage space indefinitely with a one-time payment.
The lifetime offers come in three packages:
Life 500: €299 for 512GB storage
Life 2K: €479 for 2TB storage
Life 10K: €1,199 for 10TB storage
For users seeking additional capacity, IceDrive offers supplementary "stacks": €79 for an extra 128GB, €199 for an extra 512GB, or €399 for an additional 2TB. All paid plans include client-side encryption functionality.
However, while these lifetime offers prove economically advantageous in the long run, they don't compete with Drime's rich feature set, which includes synchronization across multiple devices, PDF editing, electronic signatures, and comprehensive collaborative features for an accessible monthly fee starting at €2.39.
MEGA
Known for its generous free storage allocation, MEGA stands out as a compelling option in the affordable cloud landscape in 2025. However, this New Zealand-based service has certain limitations compared to European solutions like Drime, particularly in terms of collaboration features.
MEGA Free 20GB Storage
MEGA distinguishes itself primarily through its exceptionally generous free offering. The service provides 20GB of storage without any special conditions. This free allocation significantly surpasses most market competitors, making MEGA one of the most attractive free online cloud storage services for users with moderate storage needs.
However, unlike Drime, which also offers 20GB free but with advanced collaborative features, MEGA restricts certain capabilities on its free plan. For instance, non-paying users cannot password-protect their shared links or set expiration dates for shares. Similarly, file version restoration is limited to 30 days for free accounts.
MEGA End-to-End Encryption
Regarding security, MEGA implements end-to-end encryption (zero-knowledge encryption) across all its plans, including the free tier. This protection level ensures that only the sender and recipient possess the necessary keys to view, read, or listen to stored or shared data. For any other party, including MEGA itself, the data remains incomprehensible.
The service implements AES-128 encryption for data at rest, complemented by TLS encryption during transit. While AES-128 is technically less robust than the AES-256 used by Drime, it remains sufficiently secure since even the fastest computers available today would take centuries to decrypt it.
Each item on MEGA has a unique decryption key, and when sharing a link, this key is sent by default along with it. For enhanced security, users can export and send the decryption key separately, but this method is less intuitive than the secure sharing options offered by Drime.
MEGA Transfer Limits
The major drawback of MEGA lies in its transfer restrictions, particularly for free accounts. Unlike a professional cloud service like Drime that offers clearly defined transfer quotas, MEGA applies variable limits that are difficult to predict.
For free users, the transfer limit is not fixed and depends on several factors such as geographical location and current network usage. The system calculates this limit based on the data downloaded from the user's IP address over the past six hours. In practice, this limit is around 1 GB every six hours, which can quickly become constraining for professional uses.
Users reaching this limit must either wait for it to reset or opt for a paid plan. On the basic paid plan, the transfer quota amounts to 1 TB per month, which can be consumed immediately if necessary.
While MEGA represents an interesting option for cheap cloud storage, these transfer limitations can seriously hamper productivity, unlike Drime which prioritizes smooth exchanges and unrestricted collaboration.
kDrive
For companies concerned about digital sovereignty, kDrive represents an interesting Swiss alternative in the cheap cloud storage landscape, although less comprehensive than Drime for advanced collaboration.
kDrive Swiss Privacy
Developed and hosted exclusively in Switzerland by Infomaniak, an independent company, kDrive ensures optimal confidentiality in compliance with Swiss and European laws. Every uploaded file is stored securely on three different media distributed across two separate locations in Switzerland, guaranteeing complete reliability.
Data and metadata for each account are compartmentalized, and without explicit user authorization, no support or staff member can access the information. The service fully complies with GDPR and nFADP regulations, but unlike Drime which offers AES 256-bit encryption, kDrive employs AES 128-bit encryption.
kDrive Office Integration
kDrive incorporates the OnlyOffice suite, used by over 7 million users to collaborate on Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents. This integration enables real-time editing and co-editing, though without the advanced features for ultra-precise commenting on various formats that Drime offers.
With Pro and Enterprise versions, you can also integrate Microsoft Office while ensuring secure storage in Infomaniak's Swiss data centers. Additionally, kDrive is available on all major operating systems: Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as mobile devices.
kDrive Competitive Pricing
kDrive offers several pricing plans tailored to different needs:
kDrive Solo: $5.99 per month for 3TB of storage, perfect for individual use
kDrive Team: $12 per month for 3TB expandable up to 18TB, suitable for small teams (maximum 6 users)
kDrive Pro: $7.99 per user per month, starting from 3 users, with 6TB expandable up to 106TB
For individuals, kDrive provides 15GB of free storage, which is less generous than Drime's 20GB offering. Additionally, while competitive in pricing, kDrive lacks PDF editing capabilities, electronic signature functionality, and AI assistant features that come included with all Drime plans.
Ultimately, kDrive represents an appealing option for those seeking a European professional cloud solution at moderate prices, though it falls short compared to Drime's rich feature set for advanced collaboration.
Koofr
Koofr stands out in the cheap cloud storage landscape through its unique ability to integrate multiple cloud services into a single interface. However, despite its interesting features, this European solution has certain limitations compared to Drime in terms of advanced collaboration capabilities.
Koofr Multi-Cloud Management
Koofr's main strength lies in its ability to connect and manage multiple external cloud accounts from a unified interface. This service enables integration with major providers like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. The number of possible connections varies according to the chosen plan:
Free Plan: up to 2 external accounts (1 per provider)
Intermediate Plans: up to 9 or 18 external accounts
Premium Plans: up to 30 external accounts (10 per provider)
This integration doesn't impact your Koofr storage quota since files remain hosted on their original services. However, unlike Drime which offers advanced collaborative editing tools, Koofr primarily focuses on basic file access and management across different platforms.
Koofr Security and Sustainability
Regarding security, Koofr implements standard encryption during transfer via TLS/SSL and data storage. For enhanced protection, the service offers "Koofr Vault," a zero-knowledge client-side encrypted application. However, compared to Drime's AES 256-bit encryption, Koofr employs a more basic level of protection.
Additionally, Koofr distinguishes itself through its environmental commitment. Their servers are entirely powered by renewable energy sources, particularly wind and hydroelectric power. The data centers, located in Germany, utilize advanced cooling technologies that rely solely on air, eliminating water usage and improving energy efficiency.
Koofr Flexible Storage Options
Koofr offers various plans suited to different needs, with competitive pricing starting at just €0.5 monthly for 10GB. The main offerings include:
25GB at €1/month
100GB at €2/month
250GB at €4/month
1TB at €10/month
Paid plans unlock additional features such as Office for web, PDF management tools, extended sharing options, and longer retention periods for deleted files. Koofr also rewards loyalty with discounts of up to 50% for long-term subscriptions.
However, despite these advantages, Koofr lacks the advanced PDF editing capabilities, electronic signature functionality, and AI assistant features included in all Drime plans, thus limiting its utility for professional collaboration.
Conclusion
After examining the best affordable cloud storage solutions in Europe for 2025, we can see that each service offers distinct advantages. Without doubt, the European market now provides credible alternatives to the American giants that traditionally dominate this sector.
Drime stands out particularly for its balanced combination of security, advanced collaborative features, and competitive pricing. Its free 20 GB offer and plans starting at just €2.39 per month for 500 GB represent excellent value for money. Furthermore, its PDF editing capabilities, electronic signature functionality, and integrated AI assistance across all plans make it the most comprehensive solution for professional teams.
Some services like pCloud, Internxt, and IceDrive offer attractive lifetime plans for those who prefer one-time payments. However, these solutions generally lack the advanced collaborative features that Drime offers, particularly real-time editing and precise commenting across different file formats.
MEGA attracts users with its generous 20 GB free offer, although its transfer limitations can prove restrictive. kDrive and Koofr focus on Swiss privacy and multi-cloud integration respectively, but fall short compared to the complete ecosystem offered by Drime.
Security is clearly a crucial criterion when choosing a cloud service. Drime excels in this area with its AES 256-bit encryption, triple data replication, and full GDPR compliance. Consequently, companies handling sensitive data will find Drime to be a trusted partner for their digital transformation.
Environmental commitment is also worth considering. Drime aims for 100% renewable energy by 2025, demonstrating its responsible approach to modern cloud storage.
The final choice will depend on your specific needs. For users prioritizing collaboration, document editing, and advanced features, Drime undoubtedly represents the most comprehensive and economical solution. For those simply seeking secure storage with a one-time payment, lifetime offers from pCloud or Internxt might be more suitable.
Whatever your decision, choosing a European solution like Drime not only ensures better data protection but also contributes to strengthening European digital sovereignty in the face of American tech giants.
FAQs
Q1. What are the advantages of European cloud storage solutions compared to American giants? European solutions typically provide enhanced data protection, GDPR compliance, and support Europe's digital sovereignty. They often feature advanced collaboration and security capabilities while remaining price competitive.
Q2. How to choose between monthly subscription and lifetime cloud storage offers? The choice depends on your long-term requirements. Monthly subscriptions provide greater flexibility and access to the latest features, while lifetime offers may be more cost-effective in the long run for fixed storage needs. Assess your future requirements and compare costs over multiple years.
Q3. How important is the location of cloud storage servers? Server location is vital for regulatory compliance and data protection. Servers located in Europe generally ensure better GDPR compliance and provide greater peace of mind regarding the jurisdiction applicable to your data.
Q4. What collaborative features should you look for in a professional cloud storage service? Look for features such as real-time document editing, secure file sharing, precise commenting on different formats, integrated electronic signatures, and the ability to manage access permissions. These tools promote effective team collaboration.
Q5. How to evaluate the security of a cloud storage service? Review the type of encryption used (AES 256-bit is preferred), the presence of end-to-end encryption, security certifications, privacy policy, and server location. Also check access control features and the provider's security track record.
Finding an affordable cloud service in 2025 has become a real challenge in a market where American giants hold 72% dominance. The online storage sector is intensely competitive, while the European cloud services market is projected to reach 110 billion euros by 2028, with an impressive annual growth rate of 23%. Given this landscape, we have compared the best cloud storage solutions to help you make the most suitable choice for your needs. Our cloud comparison highlights cost-effective European alternatives, including Drime, a French solution offering 20 GB of free storage and plans starting at just €2.39 per month for 500 GB. Among other notable options are pCloud with its lifetime offers up to 10 TB, Internxt offering 2 TB for less than €200, and MEGA standing out with its free online cloud storage of 20 GB. Whether you're looking for secure professional cloud storage or simply the most affordable cloud for your personal needs, this guide details the specifics of each service - from data security to collaborative features, along with various pricing options.
Drime
In terms of affordable cloud storage, Drime positions itself as an innovative French solution that combines security, collaboration, and competitive pricing. This European alternative deserves special attention for anyone seeking reliable online storage without breaking the bank.
Drime Data Security
Data protection is Drime's absolute priority. The service implements AES 256-bit encryption, considered the highest available standard. This security level is so robust that it would take billions of years to crack a protected file using current technologies.
Furthermore, Drime employs SSL/TLS encryption technology to protect data in transit. To maximize availability, your files are distributed across clusters with triple replication for each element. This architecture ensures that even if one server fails, your data remains accessible.
The system also includes DDoS protection, ensuring constant and secure access to your data. To precisely control who can access your information, Drime offers granular permissions at the file and folder level, with the option to add password protection.
Drime Collaborative Features
Drime particularly excels in its team collaboration features. The platform enables dynamic collaboration with real-time document editing. You can work seamlessly with colleagues and clients - commenting, sharing, editing, and organizing everything in a single secure space.
One of Drime's strengths is that it facilitates exchanges even with collaborators who don't have an account on the platform. Gone are the days of back-and-forth emails or connection obstacles. The service centralizes your revisions across all file formats - videos, photos, documents, designs, PDFs.
Precise comments directly on visuals, videos, or documents streamline creative feedback. To quickly find your files, Drime offers advanced filters and a powerful search engine. You can also track who has opened, viewed, or downloaded your content.
Drime Pricing and Plans
Drime offers a range of pricing options tailored to different needs, with a 20% discount on annual subscriptions.
The Starter plan at $2.39 per month (billed annually) or $2.99 monthly provides 500GB of storage, easy and secure sharing, 30-day file history, an AI assistant, up to 5 members/workspaces, and 3 signature requests.
The Plus plan at $4.40 per month (annual) or $5.50 (monthly) includes 2TB of storage, password-protected links, custom expiration dates, 90-day history, and up to 15 members.
For medium-sized teams, the Professional plan costs $8.79 per month (annual) or $10.99 (monthly) with 3TB of storage, advanced role and member permissions, team activity management, and up to 25 members.
Finally, the Advanced plan at $15.99 per month (annual) or $19.99 (monthly) offers 6TB of storage, compliance monitoring, and up to 100 members.
For those who want to test the service, Drime also offers a free version with 20GB of storage.
Drime GDPR Compliance
In a context where personal data protection is becoming crucial, Drime commits to complying with European laws, among the strictest in terms of data protection. This compliance is particularly important for companies handling European citizens' data.
GDPR requires organizations to process personal data "lawfully, fairly, and transparently." Drime meets this requirement by allowing users to manage who has access to their files and workspaces and control their permissions.
Moreover, Drime's storage servers cover all regulatory compliance and data protection needs, including GDPR, SOC 1-2-3, HIPAA & HITECH, HDS, PCI DSS, CSA STAR, EBA, and more.
Unlike many providers, Drime hosts your data in Europe, significantly simplifying GDPR compliance. This also ensures that your data isn't subject to jurisdictions outside the EU, providing additional peace of mind for businesses concerned about their legal obligations.
Drime's commitment to environmental sustainability is also noteworthy. Currently, all their storage servers are powered by 78% renewable energy, with a target to reach 100% by 2025.
pCloud
Among the affordable cloud solutions available in the European market, pCloud stands out particularly for its unique lifetime plans and enhanced security system. Let's explore the features that make this service an interesting alternative, although different from Drime's collaborative approach.
pCloud Security and Encryption
Security at pCloud is built on multiple layers of protection. The service employs TLS/SSL encryption by default to secure transfers between your device and their servers. All stored data is also protected with AES 256-bit encryption during and after transfer.
A distinctive feature of pCloud is its client-side encryption functionality called "pCloud Encryption." This additional paid option allows users to protect their confidential files with an advanced security system. The encryption process occurs directly on the user's device before files are sent to the cloud, ensuring that no unencrypted version ever leaves your device.
pCloud also distinguishes itself by offering both encrypted and non-encrypted folders within the same account. This hybrid approach enables users to utilize server functionalities (previews, media transcoding) on non-encrypted files while maintaining maximum security for sensitive documents.
For data protection, pCloud maintains five copies of each file across at least three different server locations. Additionally, being a Swiss-based company, your data benefits from Swiss data protection laws, which are renowned for being among the world's most stringent.
pCloud Lifetime Plans
One of pCloud's most attractive features lies in its "Lifetime" plans. Unlike most cloud storage services that operate exclusively on subscription models, pCloud offers one-time payment options that provide access to the service for what they define as "lifetime" (technically 99 years or the account holder's lifetime, whichever is shorter).
The concept is straightforward: instead of paying a monthly or annual subscription, you make a single payment for permanent access to your storage space. Three main plans are available:
Premium (500 GB)
Premium Plus (2 TB)
Custom (up to 10 TB)
It's worth noting that the Lifetime Premium and Premium Plus plans don't include pCloud Encryption, which must be purchased separately. However, if you decide to add this feature later, you can also opt for a "Lifetime" version of pCloud Encryption.
For users who decide to increase their storage capacity, pCloud allows upgrades to Lifetime accounts. In such cases, the initially acquired storage adds to the new plan. For example, a user upgrading from a 500 GB plan to 2 TB will end up with 2.5 TB of space.
pCloud Cross-Platform Compatibility
Cross-platform accessibility is another strength of pCloud. The service is available on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. This extensive compatibility ensures you can access your files from any device and sync them automatically.
On computers, pCloud Drive functions as a virtual disk, providing access to files without consuming local hard drive space. For mobile users, the pCloud app enables viewing, editing, and sharing files on the go.
Real-time synchronization across different devices allows users to seamlessly transition from working on a document at home to continuing on a mobile device without interruption.
While this extensive compatibility is convenient, it's worth noting that pCloud's collaborative features are less comprehensive compared to Drime, which offers real-time collaborative editing and precise feedback tools for various file formats.
Finally, it's important to highlight that pCloud also provides access to files through any web browser, further enhancing its multi-platform flexibility.
Internxt
In the realm of affordable cloud storage solutions, Internxt stands out as a Spanish alternative that distinguishes itself through its radical approach to security and privacy. This platform is particularly notable for its unique architecture and strong commitment to protecting user data.
Internxt Decentralized Architecture
Unlike traditional solutions such as Drime that store your files on highly secure centralized servers, Internxt takes a fundamentally different approach. The service employs a system where files are fragmented before encryption. Consequently, each server never stores a complete file, only an encrypted fragment.
This decentralized approach offers several key advantages. First, even if a server is compromised or the entire network experiences an attack, the information remains inaccessible since the encryption/decryption protocol requires client-side data. Additionally, all Internxt servers are located within the European Union, ensuring complete compliance with GDPR regulations.
Internxt's decentralized architecture is strengthened by its fully open-source code, published on GitHub. This transparency enables anyone to independently verify the system's integrity and quickly identify potential vulnerabilities. The company has been audited by Securitum, a European firm specializing in penetration testing.
Internxt Zero-Knowledge Policy
The cornerstone of Internxt's approach lies in its "zero-knowledge" policy. This concept means that only the user can access their data. Files are end-to-end encrypted using AES-256 algorithm before leaving your device, preventing anyone, including Internxt, from accessing your information.
Internxt also distinguishes itself by implementing post-quantum Kyber-512 cryptography. This technology aims to protect data against future threats posed by quantum computers, which could potentially break traditional encryption methods. This forward-thinking approach ensures that your files remain secure not only today but also against tomorrow's technological advances.
For privacy-conscious users, this system provides substantial peace of mind. However, this enhanced security comes with some limitations in terms of collaborative features compared to Drime, which offers real-time editing and precise commenting capabilities across various file formats.
Internxt Cloud Storage Pricing
Regarding affordable cloud storage, Internxt offers several plans tailored to different needs and budgets. The service provides a free account with 1 GB of storage, significantly less generous than Drime's 20 GB offering.
For annual premium plans, pricing starts at $1.47 per month for 1TB and goes up to $4.42 per month for 5TB. While these rates are competitive, it's Internxt's lifetime plans that truly set it apart in the affordable cloud storage market:
2TB for $195 as a one-time payment
5TB for $410 as a one-time payment
10TB for $625 as a one-time payment
These lifetime offers provide exceptional long-term value. For instance, the 2TB plan at $195 becomes cost-effective after just two years of use. However, it's worth noting that these remarkably attractive offers might not be available indefinitely, as they primarily serve as a customer acquisition strategy.
Additionally, Internxt offers more comprehensive plans with extra features. The Essential plan, priced at $10.99 monthly (billed annually), includes 1TB of storage, post-quantum encryption, unlimited VPN access, antivirus protection, file backup, and password-protected file sharing capabilities.
While these offerings are economically attractive, they don't match Drime's extensive feature set, particularly in terms of PDF editing, electronic signatures, and advanced collaborative functionalities.
Ultimately, Internxt presents a viable option for users who prioritize data privacy and seek affordable cloud storage solutions with long-term benefits through its lifetime plans. However, for those who value collaboration and advanced features, other solutions like Drime might prove more suitable.
IceDrive
With its unique lifetime plan model and distinctive encryption algorithm, IceDrive stands out as a singular player in the affordable cloud storage market. However, unlike Drime which excels in team collaboration, IceDrive focuses more on individual security and one-time payments.
IceDrive Twofish Encryption
IceDrive fundamentally differentiates itself from other services through its exclusive use of the Twofish algorithm for data encryption. While most cloud storage providers employ the AES standard, Twofish is widely recognized by cryptographers as a more secure solution. Developed by Bruce Schneier and Counterpane Labs in 1998, this algorithm remains unbroken to this day.
IceDrive's security system operates through a meticulous process. Files are first divided into small fragments, with each fragment encrypted directly on the user's device before transfer. This method ensures that no one, not even IceDrive, can access the content – guaranteeing a true "zero-knowledge" policy. Additionally, each encrypted fragment is individually transmitted to secure servers and benefits from double encryption in transit via HTTPS.
However, unlike Drime which offers advanced collaborative functions with its AES 256-bit encryption, IceDrive prioritizes individual security at the expense of real-time team working capabilities.
IceDrive User Interface
IceDrive's web application has been designed with simplicity and user-friendliness in mind, offering compatibility with all modern browsers and adapting seamlessly to any screen size. The interface comes packed with several practical features:
Full support for drag-and-drop functionality, right-click operations, and keyboard shortcuts
Preview capability for all popular document types and vector files
Direct browser streaming for audio and video files
Advanced upload system enabling simultaneous transfer of multiple files
IceDrive's fragment-based upload method ensures a stable connection, even when transferring large files. However, while functional, this interface doesn't match Drime's collaborative editing capabilities, which allow PDF modifications, precise commenting across different formats, and integration with plugins like ChatGPT.
IceDrive Lifetime Plans
IceDrive offers two subscription types: standard plans and lifetime plans. The lifetime plans represent IceDrive's major advantage in the affordable cloud space, allowing users to acquire storage space indefinitely with a one-time payment.
The lifetime offers come in three packages:
Life 500: €299 for 512GB storage
Life 2K: €479 for 2TB storage
Life 10K: €1,199 for 10TB storage
For users seeking additional capacity, IceDrive offers supplementary "stacks": €79 for an extra 128GB, €199 for an extra 512GB, or €399 for an additional 2TB. All paid plans include client-side encryption functionality.
However, while these lifetime offers prove economically advantageous in the long run, they don't compete with Drime's rich feature set, which includes synchronization across multiple devices, PDF editing, electronic signatures, and comprehensive collaborative features for an accessible monthly fee starting at €2.39.
MEGA
Known for its generous free storage allocation, MEGA stands out as a compelling option in the affordable cloud landscape in 2025. However, this New Zealand-based service has certain limitations compared to European solutions like Drime, particularly in terms of collaboration features.
MEGA Free 20GB Storage
MEGA distinguishes itself primarily through its exceptionally generous free offering. The service provides 20GB of storage without any special conditions. This free allocation significantly surpasses most market competitors, making MEGA one of the most attractive free online cloud storage services for users with moderate storage needs.
However, unlike Drime, which also offers 20GB free but with advanced collaborative features, MEGA restricts certain capabilities on its free plan. For instance, non-paying users cannot password-protect their shared links or set expiration dates for shares. Similarly, file version restoration is limited to 30 days for free accounts.
MEGA End-to-End Encryption
Regarding security, MEGA implements end-to-end encryption (zero-knowledge encryption) across all its plans, including the free tier. This protection level ensures that only the sender and recipient possess the necessary keys to view, read, or listen to stored or shared data. For any other party, including MEGA itself, the data remains incomprehensible.
The service implements AES-128 encryption for data at rest, complemented by TLS encryption during transit. While AES-128 is technically less robust than the AES-256 used by Drime, it remains sufficiently secure since even the fastest computers available today would take centuries to decrypt it.
Each item on MEGA has a unique decryption key, and when sharing a link, this key is sent by default along with it. For enhanced security, users can export and send the decryption key separately, but this method is less intuitive than the secure sharing options offered by Drime.
MEGA Transfer Limits
The major drawback of MEGA lies in its transfer restrictions, particularly for free accounts. Unlike a professional cloud service like Drime that offers clearly defined transfer quotas, MEGA applies variable limits that are difficult to predict.
For free users, the transfer limit is not fixed and depends on several factors such as geographical location and current network usage. The system calculates this limit based on the data downloaded from the user's IP address over the past six hours. In practice, this limit is around 1 GB every six hours, which can quickly become constraining for professional uses.
Users reaching this limit must either wait for it to reset or opt for a paid plan. On the basic paid plan, the transfer quota amounts to 1 TB per month, which can be consumed immediately if necessary.
While MEGA represents an interesting option for cheap cloud storage, these transfer limitations can seriously hamper productivity, unlike Drime which prioritizes smooth exchanges and unrestricted collaboration.
kDrive
For companies concerned about digital sovereignty, kDrive represents an interesting Swiss alternative in the cheap cloud storage landscape, although less comprehensive than Drime for advanced collaboration.
kDrive Swiss Privacy
Developed and hosted exclusively in Switzerland by Infomaniak, an independent company, kDrive ensures optimal confidentiality in compliance with Swiss and European laws. Every uploaded file is stored securely on three different media distributed across two separate locations in Switzerland, guaranteeing complete reliability.
Data and metadata for each account are compartmentalized, and without explicit user authorization, no support or staff member can access the information. The service fully complies with GDPR and nFADP regulations, but unlike Drime which offers AES 256-bit encryption, kDrive employs AES 128-bit encryption.
kDrive Office Integration
kDrive incorporates the OnlyOffice suite, used by over 7 million users to collaborate on Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents. This integration enables real-time editing and co-editing, though without the advanced features for ultra-precise commenting on various formats that Drime offers.
With Pro and Enterprise versions, you can also integrate Microsoft Office while ensuring secure storage in Infomaniak's Swiss data centers. Additionally, kDrive is available on all major operating systems: Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as mobile devices.
kDrive Competitive Pricing
kDrive offers several pricing plans tailored to different needs:
kDrive Solo: $5.99 per month for 3TB of storage, perfect for individual use
kDrive Team: $12 per month for 3TB expandable up to 18TB, suitable for small teams (maximum 6 users)
kDrive Pro: $7.99 per user per month, starting from 3 users, with 6TB expandable up to 106TB
For individuals, kDrive provides 15GB of free storage, which is less generous than Drime's 20GB offering. Additionally, while competitive in pricing, kDrive lacks PDF editing capabilities, electronic signature functionality, and AI assistant features that come included with all Drime plans.
Ultimately, kDrive represents an appealing option for those seeking a European professional cloud solution at moderate prices, though it falls short compared to Drime's rich feature set for advanced collaboration.
Koofr
Koofr stands out in the cheap cloud storage landscape through its unique ability to integrate multiple cloud services into a single interface. However, despite its interesting features, this European solution has certain limitations compared to Drime in terms of advanced collaboration capabilities.
Koofr Multi-Cloud Management
Koofr's main strength lies in its ability to connect and manage multiple external cloud accounts from a unified interface. This service enables integration with major providers like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. The number of possible connections varies according to the chosen plan:
Free Plan: up to 2 external accounts (1 per provider)
Intermediate Plans: up to 9 or 18 external accounts
Premium Plans: up to 30 external accounts (10 per provider)
This integration doesn't impact your Koofr storage quota since files remain hosted on their original services. However, unlike Drime which offers advanced collaborative editing tools, Koofr primarily focuses on basic file access and management across different platforms.
Koofr Security and Sustainability
Regarding security, Koofr implements standard encryption during transfer via TLS/SSL and data storage. For enhanced protection, the service offers "Koofr Vault," a zero-knowledge client-side encrypted application. However, compared to Drime's AES 256-bit encryption, Koofr employs a more basic level of protection.
Additionally, Koofr distinguishes itself through its environmental commitment. Their servers are entirely powered by renewable energy sources, particularly wind and hydroelectric power. The data centers, located in Germany, utilize advanced cooling technologies that rely solely on air, eliminating water usage and improving energy efficiency.
Koofr Flexible Storage Options
Koofr offers various plans suited to different needs, with competitive pricing starting at just €0.5 monthly for 10GB. The main offerings include:
25GB at €1/month
100GB at €2/month
250GB at €4/month
1TB at €10/month
Paid plans unlock additional features such as Office for web, PDF management tools, extended sharing options, and longer retention periods for deleted files. Koofr also rewards loyalty with discounts of up to 50% for long-term subscriptions.
However, despite these advantages, Koofr lacks the advanced PDF editing capabilities, electronic signature functionality, and AI assistant features included in all Drime plans, thus limiting its utility for professional collaboration.
Conclusion
After examining the best affordable cloud storage solutions in Europe for 2025, we can see that each service offers distinct advantages. Without doubt, the European market now provides credible alternatives to the American giants that traditionally dominate this sector.
Drime stands out particularly for its balanced combination of security, advanced collaborative features, and competitive pricing. Its free 20 GB offer and plans starting at just €2.39 per month for 500 GB represent excellent value for money. Furthermore, its PDF editing capabilities, electronic signature functionality, and integrated AI assistance across all plans make it the most comprehensive solution for professional teams.
Some services like pCloud, Internxt, and IceDrive offer attractive lifetime plans for those who prefer one-time payments. However, these solutions generally lack the advanced collaborative features that Drime offers, particularly real-time editing and precise commenting across different file formats.
MEGA attracts users with its generous 20 GB free offer, although its transfer limitations can prove restrictive. kDrive and Koofr focus on Swiss privacy and multi-cloud integration respectively, but fall short compared to the complete ecosystem offered by Drime.
Security is clearly a crucial criterion when choosing a cloud service. Drime excels in this area with its AES 256-bit encryption, triple data replication, and full GDPR compliance. Consequently, companies handling sensitive data will find Drime to be a trusted partner for their digital transformation.
Environmental commitment is also worth considering. Drime aims for 100% renewable energy by 2025, demonstrating its responsible approach to modern cloud storage.
The final choice will depend on your specific needs. For users prioritizing collaboration, document editing, and advanced features, Drime undoubtedly represents the most comprehensive and economical solution. For those simply seeking secure storage with a one-time payment, lifetime offers from pCloud or Internxt might be more suitable.
Whatever your decision, choosing a European solution like Drime not only ensures better data protection but also contributes to strengthening European digital sovereignty in the face of American tech giants.
FAQs
Q1. What are the advantages of European cloud storage solutions compared to American giants? European solutions typically provide enhanced data protection, GDPR compliance, and support Europe's digital sovereignty. They often feature advanced collaboration and security capabilities while remaining price competitive.
Q2. How to choose between monthly subscription and lifetime cloud storage offers? The choice depends on your long-term requirements. Monthly subscriptions provide greater flexibility and access to the latest features, while lifetime offers may be more cost-effective in the long run for fixed storage needs. Assess your future requirements and compare costs over multiple years.
Q3. How important is the location of cloud storage servers? Server location is vital for regulatory compliance and data protection. Servers located in Europe generally ensure better GDPR compliance and provide greater peace of mind regarding the jurisdiction applicable to your data.
Q4. What collaborative features should you look for in a professional cloud storage service? Look for features such as real-time document editing, secure file sharing, precise commenting on different formats, integrated electronic signatures, and the ability to manage access permissions. These tools promote effective team collaboration.
Q5. How to evaluate the security of a cloud storage service? Review the type of encryption used (AES 256-bit is preferred), the presence of end-to-end encryption, security certifications, privacy policy, and server location. Also check access control features and the provider's security track record.
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