TechSource: Best Google Drive Alternatives for Linux

Best Google Drive Alternatives for Linux

Posted: 07 Oct 2013 07:18 PM PDT

Google Drive is one of the best applications when it comes to storing your files, editing them, and even sharing them. Competing directly with Dropbox, Google's cloud storage solution boasts of huge amounts of space for your documents as well as your media. One of the most amazing things about Google Drive is that it lets you edit your documents as you would on your desktop. The files are then saved every few seconds or so, thus making it as a good backup or storage solution as an offline storage device.

Despite the many features that Google Drive offers, it does end up disappointing many Linux fans. Though you'll find a Drive client for Windows and for Mac, you won't find a Drive counterpart for the open-source operating system. Now, it's not like Google has completely ignored the penguinland. In fact, Google has promised that a Drive client for Linux is in the works. However, it's been a long time since the search giant made that promise and users are getting impatient waiting for that to realize.

If you too are one of those impatient users, read on as we cover some of the best Google Drive alternatives that are out there for Linux.

Dropbox

The undisputed leader in cloud-based storage, Dropbox has carved itself a place in the Linux landscape right since its inception. Blending in nicely with the Linux interface, especially that of Ubuntu's, Dropbox is making sure that we ditch our pendrives for the cloud. In fact, such is the popularity of this service that it is responsible for 0.29% of all worldwide Internet bandwidth that too just 5 years of its first release.

What makes it a good Google Drive alternative?

1. It is free
2. It works perfectly with Linux
3. It works across all platforms

Insync

Insync, though looks like a Google Drive client, is actually an extension to Drive. With functionalities that build upon Google Drive's online service, Insync makes sure that all your files are safe in the cloud. One of the best features about Insync is that it allows you to use multiple Google accounts from the same desktop. So, let's say you've stored all your documents in your business account while your photos are in your personal account, with Insync you can use them together to access both your photos as well as your documents. Another feature that makes it interesting is that it lets you convert files from Google Docs format back to MS Office format. Though as good as Insync might seem, it is not free. Consider shelling out some cash in order to use the service.

What makes it a good Google Drive alternative?

1. Brings the best of Google Drive to your desktop.
2. Extends Google Drive's functionality.
3. Lets you access files from multiple Google accounts.

Ubuntu One

If you are an Ubuntu user, you must be aware of this service by now. Canonical's cloud storage solution is a key aspect in Shuttleworth's goal of convergence. Ubuntu One, like Dropbox, gives you a safe storage place for your personal data. Once you sign up for the service, you get 5 GB of storage space, which you can increase either by inviting your friends or upgrading your account. One of the best parts about Ubuntu One is that it blends in perfectly with the Ubuntu desktop. Also, UbuntuOne has apps across all major platforms including Mac, Android, iPhone and iPad.

What makes it a good Google Drive alternative?

1. It is free
2. Fits perfectly well with the Ubuntu desktop.
3. Works across all major platform

Copy

Copy is a new kid on the block when it comes to cloud storage solutions. The service, owned by Barracuda Networks, looks like a solid competitor to Dropbox and other cloud-storage players. Once you sign up, you get a whopping 15 GB of storage space. You can increase this amount by inviting other people to the service. One of the best things about Copy is that it works perfectly across Linux as well as other platforms.

What makes it a good Google Drive alternative?

1. Huge amount of free storage space
2. Works great with Linux
3. Works across all major platforms.

Written by: Abhishek, a regular TechSource contributor and a long-time FOSS advocate.