Home Tech Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor – A Head-To-Head Comparison

Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor – A Head-To-Head Comparison

If you’re looking for a secure and reliable way to protect your sensitive files in the cloud, you might wonder which encryption software to choose.

Cryptomator and Boxcryptor are popular options, and deciding between them can be challenging.

The consequences of making the wrong choice can be disastrous, from lost data to compromised privacy. With so much at stake, making an informed decision based on your needs and preferences is essential.

In this article, we’ll look in-depth at Cryptomator and Boxcryptor, comparing their features, strengths, and weaknesses.

By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which encryption software is the best fit for your cloud storage needs.

Let’s dive in and explore the differences between Cryptomator vs Boxcryptor.

Before diving into the comparison, I will briefly introduce Cryptomator and Boxcryptor.

What Will I Learn?💁 show

What Is Boxcryptor?

Boxcryptor encrypts the sensitive files and folders in Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and other cloud storage services. Since its creation in 2011, it has grown to be one of the most popular encryption services in the world.

Its popularity is largely due to its combining highly secure encryption with a user-friendly interface.

Its security was even confirmed by an independent code audit by a third-party body called Kudelski Security.

Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor
Boxcryptor encrypts your sensitive files and folders in Cloud Storage

The data in your device is encrypted before being synced with the cloud storage provider of your choice.

You can access Boxcryptor on the web or in their free mobile app, and you enjoy free services that allow you to sync to one cloud service on two devices.

For more expansive services, paid options are available.

The services are available for both personal use and teams.

Boxcryptor Pros:-

  • Vast choice of cloud services supported
  • Easy to use
  • File sharing is available
  • Customer service is available
  • Two-factor authentication available
Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor - A Head-To-Head Comparison
Your Benefits with Boxcryptor

Boxcryptor Cons:-

  • Not free
  • Limited free version
  • Limited Linux version
Boxcryptor Video: How it works 2022

What Is Cryptomator?

Cryptomator was launched in 2016 by the startup Skymatic GmbH. It is one of the most popular and widely unacclaimed encryption solutions for cloud storage.

They aim to put your data security in your hands, giving you greater control over your security.

Your data is encrypted not only during transmission but during storage. Unlike many encryption services, they do not keep the keys for decrypting your data, making them more secure because they cannot be stolen, copied, or misused.

Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor 1

Your data can be accessed from all your devices. In addition to that, you can do it all for free. They provide top-quality services at absolutely no cost.

Another unique feature is that you do not have to create an account to use it. All you need to do is to create a vault for your files and folders to be kept.

Cryptomator Pros:-

  • Easy to use
  • Free
  • Open-source
  • Unlimited devices and file size
  • No need for account creation

Cryptomator Cons:-

  • No file sharing
  • Limited cloud service support
  • A limited number of cloud service providers

Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor – A Comparison 🤷‍♂️

Cryptomator and Boxcryptor are household names for encrypting your data for cloud storage. They have good reputations based on their relatively easy-to-use interface and security.

On both Cryptomator and Boxcryptor, no one can access your files, not even the software companies themselves. This is the layer of security many people have been looking for.

I will now dive into an in-depth analysis and comparison of the two encryption giants. I will compare their account setup model, approaches to encryption, pricing, and other distinguishing features.

Features Cryptomator Boxcryptor
Encryption algorithm AES (256-bit) AES (256-bit), RSA (4096-bit)
Cross-platform support Yes, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS Yes, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
End-to-end encryption Yes, files are encrypted locally before upload Yes, files are encrypted before upload
Cloud storage support Yes, it supports various cloud storage providers Yes, it supports various cloud storage providers
Two-factor authentication No Yes, using Google Authenticator or similar apps
Key management User-managed User-managed supports central management
File sharing support Yes, via sharing of passwords or key files Yes, via user management and access controls
Cost Free and open-source, paid versions are available Free and paid versions are available

1. Account System

In this Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor comparison, I would love to start with the basics for opening an account. To use Boxcryptor, you need to have created an account.

In the account creation, you can choose a secure password so only you know it. Note that you must be careful in selecting a password because there is no password recovery with Boxcryptor.

Cryptomator takes a completely different approach to things. You do not create an account with Cryptomator. Simply download Cryptomator, and you’re almost ready to use it.

Rather than create an account, you open a vault hosted on a virtual drive. You then choose a password for this virtual drive vault.

This vault can then be accessed from the Cryptomator interface.

Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor

Everything in your vault is secure and synchronized with your cloud service provider. So, you do not have to worry about accounts, cloud access permits, or key distribution when using Cryptomator.

2. Supported Platforms

If you’re wondering if you can use Crypomator and Boxcryptor across a wide range of platforms and operating systems, the answer is an emphatic yes.

The web version of Cryptomator is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux. In addition to that, you can use it on Android and iOS mobile devices.

Boxcryptor is also available on Windows, macOS, Linux, and the mobile platforms Android and iOS. Boxcryptor, however, has limited features on Linux.

3. Supported Cloud Providers

Many people are interested in Crypomator and Boxcryptor because of their utility in providing an extra layer of security for their documents kept in the cloud. So, it is important to know what cloud providers are supported. 

The documents in your Cryptomator vault are synchronized to your chosen cloud service. There are about 20 cloud services that Cryptomator supports, including OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, and Web Dav-based cloud storage providers.

Boxcryptor also supports these cloud storage providers mentioned above. In addition to that, they support others, such as SharePoint.

If there is a cloud storage provider, there is a good chance that Boxcryptor supports it. I believe in the Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor comparison; Boxcrypto slightly edges out Cryptomator on supported cloud providers. 

4. Cryptomator vs boxcryptor :- Encryption

A major part of the security provided by Cryptomator and Boxcryptor is the encryption they provide to your files. Cryptomator uses AES-256 to encrypt file makes, headers, and content saved in the virtual drive (vault).

It utilizes Dokany on Windows and FUSE on macOS and Linux as the front end. If unavailable, it reverts to the use of WebDAV.

Boxcryptor, on the other hand, uses AES and RSA encryption. The password is hashed and configured differently on the user’s device before being sent to the Boxcryptor servers to be hashed a second time.

In layman’s language, this means that your password is secure, and not even Boxcryptor has access to it.

5. Security

Other security measures are designed to keep your files safe from the encryption services provided.

Boxcryptor supports 2-factor authentication. Cryptomator, on the other hand, does not yet support 2-factor authentication.

However, on Cryptomator, security keys that comply with the WebAuthN standard on Windows and Mac OS are now supported.

Also, Cryptomator is open-source software, meaning anyone can review the source of the software. It makes it extra difficult for backdoors to be created to access your data.

Though Boxcryptor is proprietary software and does not have this advantage, they prove itself to be very open and transparent with its software.

6. File Sharing

For many people, saving their documents is only half of the equation. They also want to know if sharing their files and documents with others is possible. Cryptomator and Boxcryptor go about file sharing very differently.

On Cryptomator, file sharing gives someone access to your drive. You do this by sharing your password. However, this file-sharing can only be done with other Cryptomator users.

File sharing is available to Boxcryptor users. You can share files by mail and other conventional means. However, you can only share with other Boxcryptor users.

To share files with non-Boxcryptor users, you must use Whisply, an end-to-end file transfer service developed by Boxcryptor.

7. Pricing

Finally, I look at the pricing in this Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor comparison.

It often comes as a surprise to many that Cryptomator is free. Their top-notch services are of the quality usually associated with paid services. Cryptomator offers free services, though they accept donations.

You can use all their services in free mode, though the dark mode is reserved for those who have donated. The mobile version, however, requires you to make a one-time payment of $9.99.

Boxcryptor, on the other hand, has both free and paid options. You are limited to one cloud storage and two devices in the free option.

To enjoy all Boxcryptor offers, subscribe to their freemium pricing model, which has a $48/year personal and $96/year business plan.

Cryptomator vs Boxcryptor vs Veracrypt:-

Cryptomator and Boxcryptor are great tools for encrypting files and storing them in the cloud. At the same time, VeraCrypt provides more advanced encryption options for those who need to secure entire drives or partitions.

Here is a detailed table comparing Cryptomator, Boxcryptor, and VeraCrypt:-

Features Cryptomator Boxcryptor VeraCrypt
Encryption algorithm AES (256-bit) AES (256-bit), RSA (4096-bit) AES, Serpent, Twofish (various key sizes)
Cross-platform support Yes, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS Yes, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS Yes, Windows, macOS, Linux
End-to-end encryption Yes, files are encrypted locally before upload Yes, files are encrypted before upload Yes, it encrypts entire volumes/partitions
Cloud storage support Yes, it supports various cloud storage providers Yes, it supports various cloud storage providers No, it encrypts local storage only
Two-factor authentication No Yes, using Google Authenticator or similar apps No, but supports key files for additional security
Key management User-managed User-managed supports central management User-managed supports hidden volumes
File sharing support Yes, via sharing of passwords or key files Yes, via user management and access controls No
Cost Free and open-source, paid versions are available Free and paid versions are available Free and open-source

Cryptomator vs Cryptomator 2

Cryptomator 2 is a more advanced and improved version of the original Cryptomator software, with better performance, security, and user experience.

Here’s a comparison table between Cryptomator and Cryptomator 2:-

Feature Cryptomator Cryptomator 2
Encryption AES-256 AES-256
Platform Windows, macOS, Linux Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS
Price Free and open source Free and open source
UI Simple and intuitive Redesigned for a modern look
Vault Format Virtual Disk Image (.dmg) Virtual Disk Image (.dmg)
Performance It can be slow with large files Improved performance for large files
Customization Limited options Customizable settings for advanced users
Support Community forum The community forum and email support
Two-factor authentication (2FA) Not supported Supported for added security

Cryptomator vs VeraCrypt

Regarding safeguarding sensitive data, Cryptomator and VeraCrypt stand out as two prominent contenders, each with a unique encryption and file protection approach.

Cryptomator, with its client-side encryption paradigm, secures data in the cloud. End-to-end encryption and zero-knowledge architecture ensure that only the user possesses the decryption keys, thereby minimizing potential vulnerabilities. The seamless integration with cloud storage services and cross-platform support further augments its appeal.

On the other hand, VeraCrypt adopts a more versatile stance, functioning as a disk encryption software. Utilizing on-the-fly encryption and supporting various encryption algorithms like AES, Serpent, and Twofish, VeraCrypt provides a robust defense for files, folders, and even entire disk partitions.

Its plausible deniability feature adds an extra layer of protection, enabling users to create hidden encrypted volumes within other volumes.

While both solutions excel in their respective domains, Cryptomator is an excellent choice for users who rely heavily on cloud storage for its user-friendly experience and emphasis on privacy. In contrast, VeraCrypt caters to those seeking comprehensive disk encryption and greater control over encryption algorithms.

If you need to encrypt many files or your entire hard drive, VeraCrypt is probably the better option. However, if you need to encrypt a few files or folders and want to store them in the cloud, Cryptomator may be a better choice.

Here is a comparison table between Cryptomator and VeraCrypt:-

Feature Cryptomator VeraCrypt
Encryption AES encryption with 256-bit keys Multiple encryption algorithms, including AES, Twofish, and Serpent
File System Uses WebDAV protocol to create a virtual drive with encrypted files Creates encrypted containers that can be mounted as a separate drive or folder
Platform Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux
Open Source Yes Yes
Ease of Use Very easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface More complex to use, with a steeper learning curve
Security It uses a master key for encryption and a strong password for authentication Offers features like hidden volumes and keyfiles in addition to passwords
Collaboration Offers limited collaboration features, such as the ability to share access to encrypted files with others Not designed for collaboration, as each encrypted container is designed for single-user access
Cost Free and open-source Free and open-source

📗FAQ on cryptomator vs boxcryptor

Is Cryptomator any good?

Yes, Cryptomator is a reliable and secure open-source tool that allows users to encrypt their files before storing them in the cloud.

With Cryptomator, you can rest assured that your data is protected from prying eyes and hackers. It offers multi-platform support and is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Can Cryptomator be trusted?

Yes, Cryptomator can be trusted as it is an open-source tool, so its source code is available to the public, allowing for transparency and scrutiny.

Cryptomator uses strong encryption methods such as AES and supports multiple platforms, making it a dependable tool for encrypting files.

What is the best Cryptomator alternative?

Several alternatives to Cryptomator provide similar functionalities, including VeraCrypt, Encrypto, and Axcrypt. However, the best alternative to Cryptomator depends on your needs and preferences.

Is Boxcryptor going out of business?

There is no indication that Boxcryptor is going out of business. Boxcryptor updates its software and provides reliable encryption solutions for its users.

Can I trust Boxcryptor?

Yes, Boxcryptor can be trusted as it is a secure encryption tool that third-party security experts have audited.

Additionally, Boxcryptor uses end-to-end encryption, meaning only you can access your files, and no one else, including Boxcryptor, can access your data.

Who owns Boxcryptor?

Boxcryptor is owned by a German company called Secomba GmbH, founded in 2011 by Andrea Pfundmeier and Robert Freudenreich.

Who owns Cryptomator?

Cryptomator is owned by a German company called Skymatic GmbH, founded in 2014 by Tobias Hagemann and Sebastian Stenzel.

How is Cryptomator different from VeraCrypt?

Cryptomator is a cloud-based encryption tool that allows you to encrypt files before uploading them to the cloud.

VeraCrypt, on the other hand, is a disk encryption tool that creates encrypted containers for storing files. While both tools use strong encryption methods, they serve different purposes.

What providers support Cryptomator?

Cryptomator supports many cloud storage providers, including Dropbox, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Amazon S3, and many others.

What is the alternate for Boxcryptor?

Several alternatives to Boxcryptor provide similar functionalities, including Cryptomator, VeraCrypt, and Tresorit.

However, the best alternative to Boxcryptor depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Is there a free alternative to Cryptomator?

Yes, there are free alternatives to Cryptomator that provide similar functionalities, including VeraCrypt and Axcrypt.

However, Cryptomator is also free, with the option to purchase a license for additional features.

What is the best encryption technology right now?

The best encryption technology currently depends on your specific needs and use case. Some popular encryption technologies include AES, RSA, and SHA-256.

However, it’s important to note that no encryption technology is foolproof and that combining encryption methods may be necessary to provide the best protection for your data.

What are the advantages of Boxcryptor?

Boxcryptor provides several advantages, such as protecting sensitive data and files from unauthorized access by encrypting them before storing them in the cloud.

Boxcryptor offers cross-platform compatibility, easy file sharing and collaboration with other users, and a zero-knowledge encryption system that keeps your files secure.

Is Boxcryptor zero knowledge?

Yes, Boxcryptor is a zero-knowledge encryption tool that encrypts your files on your device before they are uploaded to the cloud.

Boxcryptor does not know your encryption keys, so you can only decrypt and access your files.

What country is Boxcryptor?

Boxcryptor is headquartered in Augsburg, Germany.

Is Boxcryptor end-to-end encrypted?

Yes, Boxcryptor uses end-to-end encryption to keep your files and data secure. This means that only you have access to your data and files, and Boxcryptor cannot access or read your encrypted files.

Can Boxcryptor see my files?

No, Boxcryptor cannot see or access your files as they are encrypted before being uploaded to the cloud. Only you have the keys to decrypt and access your files.

Did Dropbox buy Boxcryptor?

Dropbox announced an acquisition of key technology assets from Boxcryptor.

Is Boxcryptor Hipaa compliant?

Yes, Boxcryptor is HIPAA compliant, which meets the requirements for protecting sensitive healthcare information.

How fast is Cryptomator?

Cryptomator’s speed varies depending on your computer’s performance, but it generally provides fast file encryption and decryption speeds.

What is Cryptomator used for?

Cryptomator is a cloud-based encryption tool that encrypts files before uploading them to the cloud, providing secure storage for sensitive files.

Is Cryptomator open-source?

Yes, Cryptomator is an open-source tool, meaning its source code is available to the public, allowing for transparency and scrutiny.

Is VeraCrypt discontinued?

VeraCrypt is still actively developed and maintained, and there is no indication that it will be discontinued.

Is there something better than VeraCrypt?

There are several alternatives to VeraCrypt, such as CipherShed, AxCrypt, and BitLocker. However, the best encryption tool depends on your needs and use case.

What is VeraCrypt weakness?

While VeraCrypt is a secure encryption tool, some of its weaknesses include its complex setup process and the potential for its encryption algorithms to be compromised by advanced attackers.

What is the alternative to Cryptomator for MacOS?

Some alternative encryption tools for MacOS include VeraCrypt, AxCrypt, and Encrypto.

What encryption does Cryptomator use?

Cryptomator uses AES encryption to protect your files and data.

Is Boxcryptor open-source?

No, Boxcryptor is not open-source, but it has undergone third-party security audits to ensure the security and reliability of its encryption technology.

Final Thoughts On Cryptomator Vs Boxcryptor

In conclusion, Cryptomator and Boxcryptor are excellent encryption software that can help you secure your files and folders in the cloud.

If you prioritize user-friendliness and affordability, Cryptomator is your perfect choice. On the other hand, if you need more advanced features such as two-factor authentication and centralized administration, Boxcryptor is the better option.

Ultimately, your choice between Cryptomator and Boxcryptor will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Regardless of which software you choose, it is crucial to prioritize the security of your files in the cloud, and both Cryptomator and Boxcryptor can help you achieve this goal.

We hope that this comparison has helped you make an informed decision about which encryption software to use.

Don’t hesitate to try them and see which works best for you!