Our verdict: Proton Drive is the easy choice if privacy matters more than space: files are end-to-end encrypted, and the Windows app syncs folders like any other cloud client. The free 5 GB is small, and the desktop app has fewer extras than Dropbox or OneDrive, but the free plan gets the same encryption as paid ones.
About Proton Drive
Proton Drive encrypts files on your device before upload, so Proton cannot read them. The Windows app syncs chosen folders with your account automatically, and shared links can have passwords and expiry dates and can be revoked at any time. Proton Docs adds an encrypted document and spreadsheet editor in the browser.
A free Proton account includes 5 GB of storage for files, photos and documents with the same encryption as paid plans. Drive Plus adds 200 GB and ten years of file version history; Proton Unlimited bundles 500 GB with Proton Mail, VPN and Pass. Proton is based in Switzerland.
What it does well
- End-to-end encryption. Files and file names are encrypted on your device before upload.
- Folder sync. The Windows app keeps chosen folders in sync with your Drive.
- Secure sharing. Share links with passwords and expiry dates, and revoke them at any time.
- Encrypted documents. Create and edit documents and spreadsheets with others in the web app.
- Photo backup. The mobile apps back up your photos to Proton Drive.
Who it is for
Good fit
Privacy-minded users who want encrypted cloud storage and may already use Proton Mail.
Look elsewhere
Anyone who needs more than 5 GB for free or Linux desktop sync.
Pros and cons
Pros
- End-to-end encrypted, including on the free plan
- Based in Switzerland
- Works with the rest of the Proton account
Cons
- Only 5 GB of free storage
- No Linux desktop app
- Fewer desktop features than Dropbox or OneDrive
How to install Proton Drive
Run the installer and sign in with your Proton account, or create one for free. Then pick the folders on your PC that should sync with Proton Drive. The app updates itself automatically after installation.
Questions about Proton Drive
Is Proton Drive free?
Yes. A free Proton account includes 5 GB of end-to-end encrypted storage. Paid plans start at 200 GB.
Can Proton see my files?
No. Files are encrypted on your device before upload, and Proton does not have the keys.
Do I need Proton Mail to use Proton Drive?
You need a free Proton account, but you do not have to use Proton Mail itself.
