If you happen to access your files on multiple PCs or devices, then Dropbox is possibly the best client for you. Probably the simplest to set up amongst all the rivals, and instant sync across devices- you wont need to worry about not having that one critical file ever again. And it works on a wide range of devices as well.
Interface
In terms of the looks, the Dropbox client does look very different on an iOS device when compared to lets say a Blackberry or Android. And they have maintained this while always retaining all the features and keeping it simple to use and navigate.
Features
For a basic “free” account user, Dropbox gives 2GB of free storage space, with the chance to extend that up to 8GB via various methods, including referrals. Once it is installed on the PC, you need to set up whatever folders you wish to sync. Immediately, the upload to the cloud storage space will begin. Now, when you install this on any smartphone or a tablet, you will need to sign in one time with your account. Once that is done, the files will show up, in the same folder format as you had set it up on the primary PC. Unlike with the PC version, the mobile versions do not automatically download all files to the device storage – it is more of an on-demand thing. Select the file that you wish to open, and it is downloaded at that time.
Performance
Among all the options that we checked out, Dropbox is by far the most convenient one to use, because of a gamut of reasons. Simplicity of setting up is the most critical. Once the sign up and folder selection is done, your files are uploaded one time. Any changes post that only result in incremental changes to your backups on the cloud storage. These changes are also reflected in all devices linked with your account.
Downloading of files, on-demand, on the mobile devices depends on the Internet speeds at that moment. The critical element here is that the particular device should have an application capable of opening that particular file. Be it a word editor for a .doc file or a media player for an .avi file. Photographs aren’t really an issue here, since they are opened within the app itself.
Our Take
For 2GB of storage space for free, and the ability to set up the service very quickly, we think everyone needs to sign up for Dropbox. And install it on any capable device that they may own. No more worrying about missing that one critical file ever again!
Price: Free to download
Specs: Online backup, storage and sync service, 2GB free storage space, works with iOS, Android and Blackberry
Overall Rating: 4.0 out of 5