Nextcloud vs Google Drive: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Nextcloud and Google Drive 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:
Nextcloud
Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork.
Best for you if:
- • Self-hosted, open-source content collaboration platform.
- • Combines file storage, communication, office suite, and AI assistant.
Google Drive
Cloud storage by Google
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • Cloud storage integrated with Google Workspace including Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail.
- • Features AI-powered file search, real-time collaboration, and sharing with granular permissions.
| At a Glance |  Nextcloud |  Google Drive |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | File Management | File Management |
Rating | 86/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Nextcloud | Google Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | File ManagementTeam Chat | File ManagementWorkflow Automation |
How Nextcloud and Google Drive Compare
Nextcloud
Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork.
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Google Drive
Cloud storage by Google
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Nextcloud
Want the highest-rated option?
Nextcloud: 86/100. Google Drive: 88/100.
Go with: Google Drive
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Google Drive
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?
Both are file management tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Google Drive scores higher: 88/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Google Drive
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 86
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Nextcloud
The Bottom Line
Google Drive (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nextcloud or Google Drive better?
Google Drive scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Nextcloud and Google Drive used for?
Nextcloud: Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork.. Google Drive: Cloud storage by Google.
What does Nextcloud cost vs Google Drive?
Nextcloud is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Google Drive is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.