When it comes to picking two of the better cloud providers, it can be a difficult choir. There are many similarities while also several differences that separate the two services.
SugarSync offers tons of services, they supports almost every major operating system (Windows, Max, etc), it offers file synching of multiple folders between multiple computers and can integrate with Facebook. SugarSync is a service for those who love features and are computer savvy.
Dropbox is a simpler service in many ways and doesn’t offer as many features, but is easy to use and can be accessed from anywhere their is an internet connection.
We won’t fluff this up with words, so straight to the point here is a compare and contrast of the two services:
Features
SugarSync: Offers cloud storage, cloud backup, file and folder synching, Facebook integration, mobile device synching, file editing for basic files, shared folders with passwords protection and many of the basic features like automated backups and file versioning of backups.
Dropbox: Offers cloud storage, cloud backup, file and folder synching, mobile synching, remote access, works offline and offers the basic features like automated backups and file versioning of backups.
Pricing
SugarSync: 5GB free, 30GB $4.99/month, 60GB $9.99/month, 100GB $14.99/month, plus SugarSync for businesses. 100GB for 3 users $29.99/month.
Dropbox: 2GB free, 50GB $9.99/month, 100GB $19.99/month, plus “Teams” pricing for multiple users like businesses. “As much as you need* for 5 users at $795/year.
*Account starts with 1,000GB’s and can be scaled up as needed.
Setup
SugarSync: The amount of features does require a longer setup and a steeper learning curve. There are mutliple folder to setup in order to utilize SugarSyncs synching service. The setup is longer but also offers more features. A simple trade off.
Dropbox: Has a really simple set up, download the file, install it, sign in and that’s it. All you need is one folder and the majority of the service is offered through the cloud meaning little space on your computer is actually used. It is a very simple and easy-to-use service.
Security
SugarSync: Transmits files from your computer to the cloud by an SSL-secured connection and encrypts files with an AES-128 bit encryption after they arrive.
Dropbox: Also uses an SSL-secured connection and encrypts your files with an AES-256 bit encryption that secures your file before they are sent to the cloud.
Conclusion
SugarSync offers more features and at a better pricing. They are more complicated to use but if you are comfortable with technology the are a great service. The only big knock is encrypting data after it arrives. While it is unlikely you will ever have to worry about this, it is still a concern.
Dropbox is a simple and easy-to-use service that is very functional and works very well. But being simple isn’t better in this case. They are more expensive and offer fewer features which is a big knock. Truly their clam to fame over SugarSync is encrypting data before it is sent to the cloud.
As promised, a short and to the point comparison.
