Google Drive App and Microsoft SkyDrive Take On Cloud Storage

Google and Microsoft recently released their versions of cloud storage spaces, Google Drive and Microsoft SkyDrive.  The cloud storage world has previously been dominated by Dropbox, with SugarSync as a runner-up, but now Google Drive and Microsoft SkyDrive are changing the game with significantly lower prices and popular branding. All of these cloud storage applications serve the same basic function, which is to store files onto their servers and share with other computers or devices.  Cloud Storage apps are extremely useful for storing and sharing large files and volumes, backing up your files, and accessing your files anywhere at anytime.  But now that you have so many options for cloud sharing, which application will you choose?  Below I will compare the pros and cons of Google Drive, Microsoft SkyDrive, Dropbox, and SugarSync.

Comparison of Google Drive, Microsoft Sky Drive, Dropbox, and SugarSync

PRICE

When comparing cloud storage applications Google Drive, Microsoft SkyDrive, Dropbox, and SugarSync, the first thing you might want to look at is prices.  Microsoft SkyDrive is the cheapest, followed by Google Drive, SugarSync, then Dropbox.  Here is a breakdown of all these applications' prices. [ws\_table id="2"]

PLATFORM SUPPORT

Do you use Mac, Windows, iPhone, or Android?  When deciding which cloud storage service is right for you it is important that you choose a product that is compatible with your machine.  SugarSync is compatible with most machines, except Linux.  Dropbox also supports most platforms, with the exception of Linux and Windows phones.  Google Drive and Microsoft SkyDrive are still working on supporting other popular platforms that you may be using. Here is a breakdown of all the platforms these applications' support. [ws\_table id="7"]

OTHER FACTORS TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION

-You must own a Windows Live or Hotmail account in order to use Microsoft SkyDrive. -Both Microsoft Skydrive and Google Drive support document collaboration with others, while Dropbox does not support document collaboration. -Skydrive does not support on screen notifications or selective syncing, while Dropbox and Google Drive do support on screen notifications and selective syncing. -You must have a Google account in order to use Google Drive.  Google Drive and Google Docs are integrated so you can both store, share, and edit documents at the same time.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Google Drive

Download Google Drive

Microsoft SkyDrive Download SkyDrive

Dropbox Download Dropbox

SugarSync Download SugarSync