OpenDrive stands out as one of the most seamless and user-friendly services for cloud-based file synchronization and backups. It provides adaptable subscription options designed to match diverse requirements and financial constraints, along with essential tools for team collaboration. Overall, it earns high marks for quality.
Numerous cloud storage and backup providers exist, often boasting additional capabilities. However, OpenDrive distinguishes itself by securing an Editors' Choice award thanks to its intuitive design, dependable functionality, and particularly its flexible, cost-effective subscription structure.
The service supports straightforward synchronization and backup processes, complemented by a web interface for access and a mounted virtual drive that simplifies file navigation and uploads. The sync and backup features consume negligible local disk space, incorporating only light caching mechanisms.
In contrast, the virtual drive can occupy significant local storage when users transfer files into it. Over time, it removes cached items that are no longer accessed, but handling large volumes of data may strain the device's internal capacity. Users can relocate this storage directory on Windows systems, though this option remains unavailable for macOS at present.
Similar to Icedrive, the macOS version of OpenDrive relies on Macfuse to enable the virtual drive feature. This component requires a separate installation, which the reviewer already had from a prior evaluation of Icedrive.
On Windows, the OpenDrive application includes multiple task categories: Backup mode preserves all online files without deletions, while Synchronization enables bidirectional updates between local and cloud folders.
Additional Windows options include Move, which relocates files from the local device to the OpenDrive cloud, and One-way mirror, applying changes solely from the source folder to the cloud destination without reverse propagation.
The macOS application, however, limits choices to Backup and Mirroring. Notably, Mirroring functions as two-way synchronization, differing from the Windows one-way mirror. Users operating across both operating systems should note these variations.
Both applications provide flexible scheduling intervals, ranging from near-constant checks every 30 seconds, to hourly, daily, or weekly intervals. Options for file exclusions, such as ignoring system files, are also included.
Notifications via email accompany all backup types except the continuous setting, which could otherwise generate excessive alerts.
OpenDrive extends its reach with dedicated mobile applications for iOS and Android devices.
Collectively, the desktop clients and virtual drive adeptly handle core synchronization and backup needs. From a usability perspective, OpenDrive ranks as the reviewer's preferred cloud backup solution, praised for its clear, intuitive, and streamlined approach.
Beyond basics, the service includes support for multiple account users, along with features for note-taking and task/project sharing, making it viable for modest team efforts. Previews of common file formats are accessible directly online.
The software installations are compact at 18MB and perform efficiently across Windows and macOS platforms. As with similar services, actual speeds hinge on the user's internet bandwidth.
A slight drawback noted is that the macOS client fails to automatically restart interrupted scheduled tasks following a system shutdown. Opting for continuous monitoring serves as a practical alternative, though automatic resumption for periodic backups—daily or weekly—would enhance convenience without manual input.
Compared to many competitors, OpenDrive delivers strong value through personalized plans starting at 500GB for $5 monthly and scaling to 1 petabyte for $4,097 monthly.
The 5GB free tier suits basic needs, while paid options stay economical: 1TB costs $6 per month, 2TB is $9, and 5TB runs $17. These rates position it favorably among monthly or annual plans.
Unlike services such as Internxt that offer perpetual subscriptions, OpenDrive holds its own in pricing competitiveness against established alternatives.
OpenDrive merits consideration as a top contender. Potential users should trial it, as it likely appeals to those seeking uncomplicated cloud storage. It comes highly recommended.
Jon Jacobi, a musician and former programmer for x86 and 6800 systems, is a dedicated tech aficionado. His reviews cover televisions, solid-state drives, dashboard cameras, remote software solutions, wireless audio devices, and various other consumer electronics.