Nextcloud Desktop ClientLinux
vs
Google DriveWindows
Nextcloud Desktop Client as a Linux alternative to Google Drive
Updated
Our verdict
The Nextcloud Desktop Client can replace Google Drive for users who already run a Nextcloud server or are willing to set one up. It provides two‑way sync, offline access, selective sync, and version history, matching most everyday Google Drive use cases. It is ideal for privacy‑conscious users, small teams, or anyone who wants to keep files locally while sharing via Nextcloud’s web interface. However, it does not offer the same Google Docs/Sheets/Slides collaboration suite, so users who rely heavily on real‑time document editing will need an alternative.
- License
- GPL-2.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 35.0.0 (October 12, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Two‑way file synchronization between local folders and a cloud server
- Offline file access with automatic sync when reconnected
- Cross‑platform support (Linux, Windows, macOS)
- Selective sync to save disk space
- Version history and file restoration
What is different
- No built‑in real‑time document collaboration like Google Docs
- No native integration with Google Workspace apps
- Requires a Nextcloud server (self‑hosted or hosted) rather than a free public service
- No native web‑based file editor for non‑text files
- No direct integration with Google Drive API for third‑party apps
Opening your Google Drive files
Google Drive files such as .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx can be opened with LibreOffice or other office suites after syncing. Nextcloud does not convert Google Docs files to native formats automatically; users must export from the web interface or use the Nextcloud office suite if available. For plain text and binary files, compatibility is identical to any other cloud service.
Switching from Google Drive to Nextcloud Desktop Client, step by step
- 1. Export or download all files from Google Drive to a local folder.
- 2. Install the Nextcloud Desktop Client and create a Nextcloud account or connect to an existing server.
- 3. In the client, add the local folder you exported as a sync folder and choose selective sync options if needed.
- 4. Let the client upload the files to the Nextcloud server; verify that all files appear in the web interface.
- 5. Update any shared links or permissions to use Nextcloud’s sharing features.
- 6. Remove the Google Drive client from your system once sync is verified.
Key features of Nextcloud Desktop Client
- Two-way synchronization of files and folders
- Support for selective sync to save disk space
- Version history and file restoration
- Integration with Nextcloud server features like sharing links
- Conflict resolution for simultaneous edits
- Support for large files and binary data
- Tray icon for quick status and pause/resume
- Cross-platform support including Linux, Windows, and macOS
How to install Nextcloud Desktop Client on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.nextcloud.desktopclient.nextcloudFrequently asked questions
Will my Google Drive files be automatically converted to Nextcloud formats?
No. Nextcloud stores files as they are. If you need Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides, export them to a compatible format before syncing.
Can I use the same Google Drive shared links in Nextcloud?
No. Shared links are specific to each service. You’ll need to recreate sharing permissions in Nextcloud’s web interface.
Does Nextcloud support large file uploads like Google Drive?
Yes. Nextcloud can handle large files, but the upload speed depends on your server’s bandwidth and storage limits.
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