Box is a cloud storage and file-sharing service designed with an emphasis on web browser usage, ensuring desktop functionality as an additional feature rather than the core focus. This characteristic structure caters particularly well to businesses that operate primarily in the cloud, leveraging Box’s strong collaboration and integration capabilities. However, for home users, Box’s paid subscription may seem less appealing due to its storage offerings in relation to its price, positioning it less favorably against Editors’ Choice awardees such as Google Drive, IDrive, and Microsoft OneDrive.
Getting Started with Box
Creating an Account and Initial Setup
Starting with Box involves creating an account, even if you’re opting for the free version. Users must visit Box.com to select the appropriate plan, with personal options being somewhat hidden under the Individuals and Teams banner. Box stands out by being primarily designed for web browser usage, supporting the two most recent versions of popular browsers like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari.
In addition to its web-based interface, Box offers two desktop applications: Box Drive and Box Tools. Box Drive enables users to browse and access files directly from their PC’s file explorer, while Box Tools allows for opening files from the web browser in their corresponding desktop applications. Both applications support the current versions of macOS and Windows. While maintaining two separate tools might seem slightly confusing, it’s generally a minor issue that users adapt to quickly.
Web and Desktop Experience
Upon completing the account setup, Box directs users straight to its web version instead of prompting the installation of desktop software, unlike many other file-sharing services. From the web interface, users can effortlessly upload files and folders by dragging them from the computer’s file manager directly into the browser. Moreover, the New icon in the interface allows for the creation of Apple iWork and Microsoft Office documents via their respective online applications, as well as Google Docs files that function as links to documents stored in Google Drive.
The file preview feature supports a wide array of formats including images, documents, media files, and even 3D models. Users who subscribe to the Personal Pro plan gain access to the 10 most recent file versions, a feature not available with the free version. Additionally, a useful sidebar provides functionalities such as adding file descriptions, chatting with collaborators, initiating Zoom meetings, or sharing documents through Gmail or Outlook. Users can also view and edit documents through Word Online and other supported web apps, and fill PDFs using the web version of Adobe Acrobat.
File Sharing and Mobile Applications
Sharing Files and Collaboration
Sharing files with Box is a straightforward process. The default method involves creating a public link, allowing anyone with the link to view and download files without needing a Box account. For paid users, Box offers additional options such as setting link expiration dates and sharing files directly with specific individuals, permitting edits although this requires recipients to have Box accounts. This simplicity is in stark contrast to iCloud, which mandates that all parties must have Apple accounts to share files.
Box’s mobile applications for Android and iOS facilitate easy file browsing and uploading on the go. The iPhone version includes capabilities for scanning documents using the camera, snapping photos, recording audio or video directly into Box, and a Continuous Capture feature that launches the camera upon app opening for quick document scanning or image uploads. Security features are also robust, allowing users to lock the app with a PIN or biometrics, adding an extra layer of protection.
Integrations and Ecosystem
Box’s App Center is a powerhouse of integrations, hosting compatibility with over 1,500 applications. This extensive ecosystem likely encompasses most services users already have in place, enhancing productivity and consolidation. Default integrations include the web versions of Apple Pages and Microsoft Word. Additional integrations allow for seamless uploads to Vimeo, secure file sharing within platforms like Microsoft Teams or Slack, and document signing using DocuSign. This wide-ranging integration ecosystem is comparable to offerings from other major competitors like Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, and Dropbox. Dropbox also features its built-in e-signature tool, Dropbox Sign, for added convenience and functionality.
Pricing and Storage Options
Free Version and Limitations
Box does provide a free version that offers up to 10GB of storage, which is double what the free tiers of iCloud, IDrive, and OneDrive offer and significantly more than Dropbox’s 2GB. However, despite this seemingly generous offering, there is a notable drawback: the individual file size limit is capped at 250MB. This makes the free version unsuitable for users who need to handle large video files or hefty audio files, such as those used in podcast production, which can easily exceed this file size limit.
Paid Plans for Individuals
The paid plan for individuals, known as Box Personal Pro, comes at a cost of $14 per month or $120 annually, providing 100GB of storage with a file size limit of 5GB. When compared to alternatives, this pricing appears less competitive. For instance, Google One offers 100GB for just $1.99 per month, and iCloud’s 200GB plan costs $2.99 monthly, delivering twice the storage for a fraction of Box’s price. Even Dropbox’s 2TB plan, priced at $11.99 per month or $119.88 annually, is more cost-effective. Moreover, Box’s 5GB file size limit, though seemingly ample, falls short compared to the much larger limits offered by competitors like Dropbox (2TB), Google Drive (5TB), iCloud (50GB), and OneDrive (250GB).
Business Plans and Features
Business Plan Overview
Box’s business plans present a more competitive offering and cater specifically to organizational needs. While individual plans might not measure up against competitors, the business plans are robust, offering extensive storage options along with advanced features designed to meet the diverse requirements of organizations. These plans include enhanced security measures, compliance features, and administrative controls that make it easier to manage team collaboration and safeguard sensitive data. However, a detailed exploration of these plans falls outside the primary focus of this article, and prospective business users are advised to consult the comprehensive Box for Business review for deeper insights.
Collaboration and Integration for Businesses
Box is a cloud storage and file-sharing service primarily designed for use via web browsers, making its desktop features secondary. This focus on browser-based functionality is particularly beneficial for businesses heavily reliant on the cloud, as it harnesses Box’s robust collaboration and integration tools. Enterprises can maximize productivity through seamless teamwork and extensive integrations with various apps and tools. On the downside, Box’s paid subscription might not be the best choice for home users, given that its storage options may not provide enough value for the price compared to other cloud services. Competitors like Google Drive, IDrive, and Microsoft OneDrive have received the Editors’ Choice award, offering more attractive pricing and features for personal use. Box’s business-centric model means it’s tailored for those looking for specialized collaboration and integration rather than solely for storage purposes. Consequently, while Box excels in a professional setting, home users might find better value elsewhere.
