Self-hosted alternative to Dropbox
Replacing Dropbox depends on what you actually use it for. If you want files plus sharing, calendar, and apps, run Nextcloud. If you want fast, reliable file sync and nothing else, Seafile or Syncthing will beat it.
Updated 2026-06-01 · by Jonathan Caruso
Top pick
Nextcloud
Nextcloud is the broad Dropbox replacement: sync clients for every platform, share links, mobile apps, and an app store that adds calendar, contacts, notes, and photos. It does the most out of the box.
The options
Nextcloud
AGPL, freeA full file-sync-and-share platform with sharing, mobile apps, and add-on apps.
Visit Nextcloud site- Runs on
- Docker or LAMP, ~2-4 GB RAM
- Pick it if
- You want files plus sharing, calendar, contacts, and photos in one place.
Seafile
Open core, free CEA focused file-sync platform that is faster and more reliable at large libraries than Nextcloud.
Visit Seafile site- Runs on
- Docker, ~1-2 GB RAM
- Pick it if
- You want rock-solid, fast sync for lots of files and do not need the extra apps.
Syncthing
MPL, freePeer-to-peer sync with no central server. Devices sync directly to each other.
Visit Syncthing site- Runs on
- Tiny. Runs on a Pi or any always-on device
- Pick it if
- You want device-to-device sync with no server and no cloud, just folders kept in sync.
The verdict
Run Nextcloud if you want a true Dropbox replacement with sharing and apps. Run Seafile if you only need fast, reliable file sync and want it to stay out of the way. Run Syncthing if you do not want a central server at all and just need folders mirrored between your own devices. Many people run Syncthing for personal device sync and Nextcloud for sharing with others.
FAQ
What is the best self-hosted Dropbox alternative?
Nextcloud, if you want files plus sharing, calendar, and apps. Seafile if you want faster, simpler file sync. Syncthing if you want device-to-device sync with no central server.
Does Nextcloud sync like Dropbox?
Yes. Nextcloud has sync clients for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android that keep folders in sync and let you share files with links, just like Dropbox.
Is Syncthing a full Dropbox replacement?
Partly. Syncthing keeps folders in sync directly between your own devices with no server and no cloud, but it has no share-by-link or web access. It is great for personal device sync, less so for sharing with others.