pCloud The European alternative to Dropbox
Cloud storage with one-time payment and EU server locations
* Affiliate link: We receive a commission on purchase, at no extra cost to you.
About pCloud
pCloud offers cloud storage with optional client-side encryption and data centers in the EU and Switzerland. Unlike the US-based Dropbox subscription model, pCloud enables lifetime licenses with a single one-time payment.
Highlights
- ✓ Lifetime plans: pay once, use indefinitely
- ✓ Optional EU server location selectable
- ✓ Client-side encryption with pCloud Crypto
- ✓ Automatic photo backup
- ✓ Available on all platforms
Why European?
- → Swiss data protection, no US jurisdiction
- → EU data center selectable (Luxembourg)
- → Transparent privacy policy
- → No vendor lock-in due to lifetime model
Pricing
From 4.99 €/month · Lifetime 500 GB one-time 199 € · 2 TB one-time 399 €
Frequently asked questions about pCloud
What is pCloud and what is it used for? +
pCloud is a Swiss cloud storage service headquartered in Baar, operating from Sofia (Bulgaria), founded in 2013. Users can choose between an EU data center in Luxembourg and a US data center in Texas during registration. The service offers automatic synchronization, file sharing, media player, and optional client-side encryption via pCloud Crypto. Over 22 million users worldwide, with apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Does pCloud run on European infrastructure? +
pCloud offers two data regions: Luxembourg (EU) and Dallas, Texas (USA). The region is chosen at signup and can be changed later via account settings. Those who choose Luxembourg keep their data within the EU. Whether pCloud operates the hardware itself or leases from third parties is not documented on its public pages. AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure are not named. The Swiss parent company is not subject to the US CLOUD Act.
What does the pCloud lifetime model mean? +
pCloud is one of the few providers offering a one-time payment for lifetime use of storage space. According to official terms, the license is valid for the lifetime of the user or at least 99 years, with no recurring fees. Available as 500 GB and 2 TB lifetime plans. This option is a clear differentiator from the pure subscription model of Dropbox or Google Drive and pays for itself for long-term users after just a few years.
Try pCloud
Cloud storage with one-time payment and EU server locations
Visit pCloud Website →* Affiliate link: We receive a commission on purchase, at no extra cost to you.
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Entry verified on 08.05.2026