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File sync / storage

Best Open-Source Alternatives to Dropbox

Dropbox/Google Drive/OneDrive all dominate file sync. OSS alternatives let you keep your files on your own servers — critical for privacy, EU GDPR, sovereignty.

TL;DR — top pick

Nextcloud

Nextcloud is the comprehensive self-hosted suite — files, calendars, contacts, video chat, office suite (with Collabora/OnlyOffice), photos, all on your own server. Used by EU governments.

github.com/nextcloud/server

All 3 alternatives ranked

#1

Nextcloud

AGPL-3.0Self-hostable★ ~28k
github.com/nextcloud/server

Nextcloud is the comprehensive self-hosted suite — files, calendars, contacts, video chat, office suite (with Collabora/OnlyOffice), photos, all on your own server. Used by EU governments. The dominant OSS pick.

Pick Nextcloud if

You want a comprehensive self-hosted productivity suite that replaces Dropbox + Google Workspace.

Skip if

You only need file sync without the office/calendar bloat.

#2

Syncthing

MPL-2.0Self-hostable★ ~65k
github.com/syncthing/syncthing

Syncthing is peer-to-peer file sync. No central server, no cloud — devices sync directly. Best for personal sync between your own devices (laptop ↔ desktop ↔ phone).

Pick Syncthing if

You want device-to-device sync without any cloud middleman.

Skip if

You need shared team folders or web access — Nextcloud is the answer.

#3

Seafile

GPL-2.0Self-hostable★ ~13k
github.com/seafile/seafile

Seafile is faster and lighter than Nextcloud — pure file sync without the office-suite bloat. Better for teams that just need shared folders + version history.

Pick Seafile if

You want fast, lean self-hosted file sync without the kitchen-sink approach.

Skip if

You need calendars, office docs, video chat too — Nextcloud is more complete.

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Best Open-Source Dropbox Alternatives on GitHub (2026) — Nextcloud & more — StackPicks — StackPicks