Filen vs Sync.com
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Filen is a German cloud storage provider built around AES 256-bit client-side encryption and a zero-knowledge architecture, meaning the company itself cannot read stored files. Alongside standard file sync and storage, it offers a network drive that mounts cloud storage as a local drive, encrypted notes with markdown support, and end-to-end encrypted chat. Filen's applications are open source, and the service supports WebDAV and S3 protocols along with a headless CLI for developers and automation. It is positioned as a security-focused alternative for individuals and small teams who want full encryption without losing everyday usability.
Sync.com provides end-to-end encrypted cloud storage that keeps your files private while allowing seamless syncing across devices. Its zero-knowledge architecture ensures only you can access your data, making it ideal for individuals and teams that prioritize security. The service includes collaboration tools such as shared folders, link permissions, and real-time file versioning, all accessible via web, desktop, and mobile apps. Sync.com offers a free tier with limited storage and paid subscription plans for expanded capacity and advanced admin controls.
- Strong zero-knowledge, client-side encryption on all plans including free
- Open source client applications increase transparency
- Low starting price for paid storage tiers
- Includes encrypted notes and chat beyond plain file storage
- Zero‑knowledge encryption protects privacy
- Cross‑platform sync works on all major devices
- Granular sharing permissions and link controls
- Generous free tier with 5 GB storage
- Pricing is per-tier rather than fully flexible/custom storage amounts on lower plans
- Smaller company means less mature third-party integration ecosystem
- Encrypted architecture means no server-side file previews for some file types
- Limited storage on free plan
- No built‑in office suite for document editing
- Admin features require higher‑tier plans
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Filen
View all →
Alternatives to Sync.com
View all →
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth offer zero‑knowledge encryption, but Sync.com provides richer admin and sharing controls with broader integrations, while Filen adds open‑source clients and built‑in encrypted notes/chat.
Key differences
- •Sync.com includes admin dashboards, granular permission controls and link expiration; Filen focuses on notes, chat and WebDAV/S3 access.
- •Sync integrates with Microsoft Office Online, Slack and Zapier; Filen’s integrations are limited to WebDAV and S3‑compatible APIs.
- •Filen’s client applications are open source, giving transparency; Sync’s clients are closed source.
- •Sync’s free tier offers 5 GB storage; Filen’s free‑tier storage amount is not specified.
- •Filen provides a network‑drive mount and multiple sync modes; Sync offers selective sync and device management.
Pricing & value
Both use a freemium model; free‑tier storage amounts differ (Sync 5 GB, Filen unspecified), making direct comparison impossible.
Ease of use / learning curve
Sync offers polished cross‑platform apps and familiar UI; Filen’s open‑source clients may require more technical setup.
Features & depth
Sync provides admin dashboards, granular sharing, link expiration, and selective sync; Filen adds notes/chat but fewer admin tools.
Integrations & ecosystem
Sync lists Microsoft Office Online, Slack, Zapier; Filen only lists WebDAV and S3‑compatible API.
Collaboration
Sync’s shared folders, permission granularity, and activity logs support team work better than Filen’s basic file sharing.
Scalability
Both are cloud SaaS platforms; no data on storage limits or enterprise scaling is provided.
Support
Filen offers 24/7 support; Sync provides email and live chat without guaranteed 24‑hour coverage.
Security & privacy
Both use client‑side AES‑256 zero‑knowledge encryption; Filen is open source, Sync is closed source.
Migration / lock‑in
Filen supports WebDAV and S3 protocols, easing data export; Sync’s migration options are not specified.
Choose Filen if…
Users who value open‑source clients, encrypted notes/chat, and 24/7 support.
Choose Sync.com if…
Teams needing admin controls, granular sharing, and many third‑party integrations.
Common questions
Which service offers more integrations with common productivity tools?
Sync.com integrates with Microsoft Office Online, Slack, and Zapier; Filen only lists WebDAV and S3‑compatible APIs.
Do both services provide true zero‑knowledge encryption?
Yes. Both encrypt files client‑side with AES‑256 and claim zero‑knowledge architecture.
Is there a free tier, and how much storage does it include?
Sync.com’s free tier provides 5 GB. Filen’s free‑tier storage amount is not specified in the provided facts.