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European Digital Sovereignty

Choose EU-built alternatives to Google Drive and keep your data under European law. Support the European tech ecosystem.

Google Drive logo

European Alternative to Google Drive

🇺🇸Google · US-based

Google Drive is a cloud storage service developed by Google, allowing users to store files online and access them from any internet-connected device. It provides 15 GB of free storage space, which can be used for documents, photos, and other file types. Google Drive is integrated with Google Workspace apps, enabling real-time collaboration on documents and spreadsheets. Users can track file version history and set advanced sharing permissions to control access. Additionally, the service offers offline access to files and the ability to search content within documents. Google Drive is widely used by individuals, professionals, and organizations seeking a centralized platform for file storage and collaboration. It operates under a freemium model, with additional storage available for purchase. It is important to note that Google Drive is based in the United States, and user data is stored under US jurisdiction, subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702.

Why Choose a European Alternative to Google Drive?

European-built cloud storage offers unique advantages that go beyond just GDPR compliance. By choosing an EU alternative to Google Drive, you support the European tech ecosystem, ensure your data stays under European legal jurisdiction, and avoid dependency on US cloud infrastructure.

With growing concerns about data sovereignty and the increasing maturity of European tech companies, there has never been a better time to switch. The alternatives listed below are all headquartered in Europe and built by European teams.

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EU Data Sovereignty

Your data stays in Europe, governed by EU law. No exposure to foreign surveillance or data requests.

GDPR Native

Built in the EU, GDPR compliance is native — not an afterthought bolted onto a US-first architecture.

Support EU Tech

Strengthen the European tech ecosystem by choosing products built by European companies and teams.

5 European Alternatives to Google Drive

EU-built services with European data residency and GDPR compliance

Proton Drive logo

Proton Drive

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by Proton

Proton Drive is an end-to-end encrypted cloud storage service from Proton AG, the Swiss company behind Proton Mail. Launched in 2022, it encrypts all files and metadata client-side before upload — Proton has zero access to your data. It integrates with the Proton ecosystem (Mail, Calendar, VPN, Pass) and offers photo backup, file versioning, and secure sharing links. Free tier includes 5 GB; paid plans up to 3 TB.

EU-hostedEU-BasedOpen SourceGDPR CompliantSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:2-3 days

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards.
  • End-to-end encryption on all plans enhances security.
  • Open source allows for transparency and trust.

Consider

  • Migration from Google Drive can be time-consuming.
  • Lacks real-time collaboration features.
pCloud logo

pCloud

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by pCloud

pCloud is a Swiss cloud storage provider founded in 2013 and headquartered in Baar, Switzerland. It offers lifetime storage plans (a rarity in cloud storage), with optional client-side encryption (pCloud Crypto) as an add-on. Free tier includes 10 GB; paid plans offer up to 10 TB with file versioning, sharing, and automatic backups. Data is stored in Luxembourg (EU) or the US, selectable by the user at signup.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGDPR CompliantSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:2-3 days

Why switch?

  • EU-hosted data centers ensure GDPR compliance
  • Client-side encryption for enhanced data security
  • Lifetime storage plans reduce long-term costs

Consider

  • Migration from Google Drive can be time-consuming
  • Lacks real-time collaboration on documents
Tresorit logo

Tresorit

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by Tresorit AG

Tresorit is a Swiss-Hungarian end-to-end encrypted cloud storage and collaboration platform founded in 2011 by Istvan Lam, Szilveszter Szebeni, and Gyorgy Szilagyi. Headquartered in Zurich and acquired by Swiss Post in 2021 (while remaining independently operated), Tresorit uses zero-knowledge RSA-4096 encryption — meaning even Tresorit staff cannot access your files. The platform serves businesses that handle sensitive data: legal firms, healthcare, finance, and government. Beyond basic cloud storage, Tresorit offers secure data rooms (Tresorit Engage), electronic signatures (eSign), and email encryption.

Swiss hostedISO 27001GDPR CompliantEU-BasedISO 27017ISO 27018EU-hosted
freemiumMigration:3-5 days

Why switch?

  • Zero-knowledge encryption ensures file privacy.
  • GDPR compliance for EU data protection standards.
  • ISO 27001:2022 certified for security management.

Consider

  • Migration from Google Drive can be complex.
  • No real-time document collaboration feature.
Nextcloud logo

Nextcloud

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by Nextcloud GmbH

Nextcloud is a self-hosted cloud storage solution designed to provide secure and compliant data management for individuals and organizations. It offers end-to-end encryption for files, ensuring that your data remains private and protected. With GDPR-compliant data processing, Nextcloud is an ideal choice for those prioritizing data sovereignty and privacy, especially within the European Union. Key features include version control for file revisions, collaborative document editing, and two-factor authentication support, making it a robust tool for both personal and professional use. The platform is extensible with third-party apps, allowing users to customize their experience according to their needs. Nextcloud is suitable for businesses, educational institutions, and privacy-conscious individuals who require a reliable and secure cloud storage solution. With cross-platform mobile and desktop apps, users can access their data anytime, anywhere. Pricing varies based on the deployment model, with options for both free and enterprise-level support. By hosting data within the EU, Nextcloud ensures compliance with stringent data protection regulations, offering peace of mind to its users.

EU-hostedEU-BasedISO 27001BSI C5GDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-HostableEU Ecolabel
freemiumMigration:3-5 days

Why switch?

  • Self-hosted: Full control over data location
  • GDPR compliant: Meets EU privacy regulations
  • End-to-end encryption: Optional for sensitive files

Consider

  • Migration pain: Manual data transfer required
  • Learning curve: New interface and features
Infomaniak kDrive logo

by Infomaniak

Infomaniak kDrive is a cloud storage and collaboration platform from Geneva-based Infomaniak, Switzerland's largest independent cloud provider. It offers 15 GB free (up to 106 TB on team plans), with real-time document collaboration via an integrated OnlyOffice editor, file versioning up to 100 versions, and end-to-end encryption. All data is stored exclusively in Infomaniak's Swiss data centers, powered by renewable energy.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGreen HostingGDPR CompliantSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:2-3 days including data export time

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection
  • End-to-end encryption secures all stored files
  • EU-based servers offer data sovereignty

Consider

  • Migration from Google Drive can be time-consuming
  • Fewer third-party app integrations than Google

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best European alternative to Google Drive?

The top European alternatives to Google Drive include Proton Drive, pCloud, Tresorit. These are EU-based services that offer similar functionality while keeping your data under European jurisdiction.

Why switch from Google Drive to a European alternative?

European alternatives offer stronger data protection under GDPR, store data in EU data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act. By choosing an EU-built service, you support European tech sovereignty and gain peace of mind about your digital privacy.

Are European alternatives to Google Drive as good?

Many European alternatives to Google Drive offer comparable or even superior features, especially regarding privacy and security. European companies often lead in areas like end-to-end encryption, transparency, and data minimization. While some niche features may differ, the core functionality is usually on par with US counterparts.

Is it easy to switch from Google Drive to an EU alternative?

Most European alternatives offer import tools to migrate your data from Google Drive. We provide step-by-step migration guides for each alternative to make the process as smooth as possible. Typical migration takes from a few minutes to a few hours depending on your data volume.

More European Alternatives in Cloud Storage

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Last updated: January 26, 2026