pCloud vs Nextcloud: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between pCloud 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:
pCloud
Secure cloud storage with lifetime plans and advanced encryption.
Best for you if:
- • Secure cloud storage with client-side encryption.
- • Access and share files from any device.
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 7.1/10)
- • Self-hosted, open-source content collaboration platform.
- • Combines file storage, communication, office suite, and AI assistant.
| At a Glance |  pCloud |  Nextcloud |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | File Management | File Management |
Rating | 71/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | pCloud | Nextcloud |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 71 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | File ManagementEncryption | File ManagementTeam Chat |
How pCloud and Nextcloud Compare
pCloud
Secure cloud storage with lifetime plans and advanced encryption.
Free tier available · 71/100 score
Nextcloud
Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork.
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: pCloud
Want the highest-rated option?
pCloud: 71/100. 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?
Both are file management tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Nextcloud scores higher: 86/100 vs 71/100.
Key Takeaways
Nextcloud
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 71
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
pCloud
The Bottom Line
Nextcloud (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pCloud or Nextcloud better?
Nextcloud scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are pCloud and Nextcloud used for?
pCloud: Secure cloud storage with lifetime plans and advanced encryption.. Nextcloud: Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork..
What does pCloud cost vs Nextcloud?
pCloud is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Nextcloud is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.