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Dropbox vs Google Drive for iOS (iPhone): Which is Better?
Both Google Drive and Dropbox offer web browser access, but they also have iOS apps that enhance user experience on iOS devices. Let’s compare the Dropbox app and the Google Drive app to determine which is the superior choice for iOS device owners.
Interface
Google Drive and Dropbox offer apps with distinct focuses for their web services.
Dropbox
Dropbox clearly states its goals with its app when you log in. You’ll see all the folders you’ve created, including those you share and the one for uploading photos. Besides that, Dropbox’s interface is like a traditional file system. It has folders and subfolders to help you organize your data, and tapping any document or file will display it. However, this view is read-only, and there are no editing options for even basic text files.
You can filter your favorite files and view the ones you uploaded with the app by selecting the option at the bottom of every screen. In addition, you can access the app’s Settings menu to check your account’s available space and upgrade if needed.
Google Drive
Contrary to Dropbox, Google Drive’s app resembles its web interface, prioritizing sharing and creation. All files are stored in the “My Drive” folder, with additional options for filtering documents.
Opening documents involves tapping on them. Once open, you can view and edit them, as well as see who else is viewing.
By tapping the grey arrow icon next to any document, you can download it for offline viewing and add more people to share it with.
Unique Features
Both Google Drive and Dropbox have their strengths and weaknesses. While Dropbox lacks editing features, it excels in inter-app compatibility. Although you can’t edit documents directly in Dropbox, you can export them to various supported apps such as Evernote, Apple’s iOS iWork suite, and Google Drive for editing.
Actual file edition is possible, if not in Dropbox, at least from it.
Google Drive’s defining feature is the ability to create and edit documents within the app. It offers an impressive set of editing tools, with almost every option from its web interface available in the app.
Google Drive cannot compete with Dropbox when it comes to sharing. I couldn’t even export my Google Drive documents to other apps on my iPhone.
Conclusion
While Google Drive and Dropbox provide similar functionality, they have distinct differences. Your preference will depend on personal needs, but both apps excel in their respective areas and are free. If you’re curious about how the web version of Google Drive compares to Microsoft Office Web Apps, we have you covered.
As Fred Humiston, the author behind Twothirds.us, I focus on providing practical and easy-to-follow guides and solutions for a variety of technical issues that people commonly face.
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