Dropbox Paper vs Nextcloud: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Dropbox Paper and Nextcloud comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Dropbox Paper
Collaborative documents by Dropbox
Best for you if:
- • You need documentation features specifically
- • Dropbox Paper is a collaborative document editor integrated with Dropbox storage
- • It combines docs, task management, and media embeds in a clean, minimalist interface
Nextcloud
Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You need file management features specifically
- • Self-hosted, open-source content collaboration platform.
- • Combines file storage, communication, office suite, and AI assistant.
| At a Glance |  Dropbox Paper |  Nextcloud |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Documentation | File Management |
Rating | 78/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Dropbox Paper | Nextcloud |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 78 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | DocumentationFile Management | File ManagementTeam Chat |
How Dropbox Paper and Nextcloud Compare
Dropbox Paper
Collaborative documents by Dropbox
Free tier available · 78/100 score
Nextcloud
Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork.
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Dropbox Paper is a documentation tool. Nextcloud is in file management.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Dropbox Paper
Want the highest-rated option?
Dropbox Paper: 78/100. Nextcloud: 86/100.
Go with: Nextcloud
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Nextcloud
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Dropbox Paper is a documentation tool. Nextcloud is in file management. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Nextcloud scores higher: 86/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Nextcloud
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 78
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Dropbox Paper
- Better fit for documentation
The Bottom Line
Nextcloud (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dropbox Paper or Nextcloud better?
Nextcloud scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Dropbox Paper and Nextcloud used for?
Dropbox Paper: Collaborative documents by Dropbox. Nextcloud: Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork..
What does Dropbox Paper cost vs Nextcloud?
Dropbox Paper is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Nextcloud is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.