Nextcloud vs ownCloud: Which One is Right for You?

If you’re looking for a self-hosted cloud storage solution, two popular options are Nextcloud and ownCloud. In this article, we will compare Nextcloud vs ownCloud regarding features, security, ease of use, and community support.

Nextcloud Vs ownCloud

Nextcloud and ownCloud are open-source, self-hosted cloud storage solutions allowing you to store, share, and sync files and data across devices. They are both designed to provide users with secure and private cloud storage that they can control and manage themselves.

Features

Nextcloud and ownCloud offer similar features, including file sharing, syncing, and collaboration. However, Nextcloud has some advanced features that are not available in ownCloud.

For example, Nextcloud has a more robust sharing system that allows users to share files and folders with specific users or groups, set expiration dates, and password-protect shares. Nextcloud also has built-in collaboration tools that allow users to edit documents, spreadsheets, and presentations in real time.

Nextcloud also has a wider range of third-party apps and plugins than ownCloud, allowing users to extend the platform’s functionality. For example, you can use the Nextcloud Talk app to make video calls and chat with other Nextcloud users.

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Security

Both Nextcloud and ownCloud are designed to be secure and private, with strong encryption and privacy features.

Nextcloud has built-in two-factor authentication and brute force protection, adding an extra security layer to your account. Nextcloud also has a more robust encryption system that allows you to encrypt files and folders per user.

It’s not that ownCloud does not support two-factor authentication, but it requires users to install the app from the market.

Ease of Use

Regarding ease of use, Nextcloud is generally more user-friendly than ownCloud. Nextcloud has a modern, intuitive interface that is easy to navigate and use, even for non-technical users. Most users will find Nextcloud’s interface similar to popular cloud storage services such as Microsoft’s OneDrive.

Nextcloud also has a web-based installer that walks you through the installation process step by step. The installer also checks your server settings to ensure that your server meets the requirements for running Nextcloud.

In contrast, ownCloud requires technical knowledge to set up and configure, which may be a barrier for some users. ownCloud also has a web-based installer, but it is generally considered more difficult to use than Nextcloud’s installer.

Raspberry Pi Support

Suppose you want to run a self-hosted cloud storage solution on a Raspberry Pi, both Nextcloud and ownCloud support this platform. However, Nextcloud is generally more optimized for Raspberry Pi than ownCloud.

Nextcloud has a dedicated Raspberry Pi image optimized for the platform, making installation and configuration easier. Additionally, Nextcloud has a smaller memory footprint than ownCloud, which makes it better suited for running on low-powered devices like the Raspberry Pi.

Community Support and Development

Both Nextcloud and ownCloud have active communities of developers and users who contribute to developing and improving the projects. Personally, I find both communities equally helpful and supportive.

Nextcloud has a larger number of developers contributing to the project, so updates and bug fixes are released more frequently. Nextcloud also has many third-party developers creating apps and plugins for the platform.

Pricing

Nextcloud and ownCloud are open-source and free to use. However, if you need additional support or enterprise-level features, both solutions offer paid plans.

Nextcloud’s standard plan starts at €65/user/year and include additional support, maintenance, and enterprise-level features. ownCloud’s standard plan starts at €115.2/user/year for a standard subscription, which includes support and additional features. The above pricing applies only when the user buys for 100 users.

Conclusion

Nextcloud and ownCloud are excellent self-hosted cloud storage solutions offering similar features and functionality. However, Nextcloud has advanced features and better security and is generally considered more user-friendly than ownCloud.

Nextcloud is also more optimized for Raspberry Pi and has a more active and vibrant community of developers and users. If you’re looking for a self-hosted cloud storage solution, Nextcloud is the best option.

That being said, if you’re already using ownCloud and are satisfied with its features and functionality, there’s no need to switch to Nextcloud. Both solutions are excellent and provide users with secure and private cloud storage to control and manage themselves.

To summarize, if you’re looking for a self-hosted cloud storage solution, Nextcloud vs ownCloud is a decision that will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Regardless of your chosen solution, you’ll get a powerful, secure, and customizable cloud storage solution that you can control and manage yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nextcloud completely free?

Nextcloud offers a free and open-source version, including basic features like file sharing, collaboration, and syncing. If you opt for the enterprise version, you’ll also access support and additional features such as backup and migration tools. However, some advanced features, such as video conferencing and LDAP integration, are only available in the paid enterprise version.

Is ownCloud still free?

Yes, ownCloud is still free and open-source software. The core features of ownCloud, including file sharing, collaboration, and syncing, are available in the free and open-source versions. However, an enterprise version of ownCloud offers additional features and support for a fee.

Is ownCloud better than Nextcloud?

Choosing between ownCloud and Nextcloud depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both platforms are open-source, self-hosted cloud storage solutions with similar features, such as file sharing, collaboration, and syncing. However, some differences may make one platform more suitable for you than the other.

Nextcloud Vs ownCloud; which one is more secure?

Both ownCloud and Nextcloud have robust security measures to protect user data. However, the security of your self-hosted cloud storage solution also depends on how you configure and manage it.