Seafile vs Dropbox
Self-host swap-in for Dropbox. · Self-host Dropbox · Seafile on os-alt
Seafile is one of the open-source self-host replacements for Dropbox — license AGPL-3.0 (Community Edition), 20min docker-compose to stand up, and $5 vps — efficient sync engine, low overhead. Compare against Dropbox's $11.99/user/mo on Plus tier (2TB) below.
| Seafileopen-source | Dropboxpaid SaaS | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | File sync + sharing | File sync + sharing |
| License / pricing | AGPL-3.0 (Community Edition) | $11.99/user/mo on Plus tier (2TB) |
| Starting price | $0 self-host | $11.99/user/mo |
| GitHub | haiwen/seafile-server | closed source |
| Setup time | 20min docker-compose | SaaS — sign up + bill |
| Monthly cost | $5 VPS — efficient sync engine, low overhead. | from $11.99/user/mo ($11.99/user/mo on Plus tier (2TB)) |
Switching from Dropbox to Seafile
Dropbox export → unzip → drag folders into a Seafile library via the desktop client. Library = one Dropbox folder. File versions reset (Seafile starts its own history).
- Good fit for
- Teams that prioritize raw sync speed over feature breadth.
- Weak at
- Web UI is plainer; CE lacks some advanced collab features.
Other open-source self-host alternatives to Dropbox
In a terminal? npx os-alt dropbox prints Dropbox's self-host options —
how the CLI works →
FAQ
Is Seafile a free alternative to Dropbox?
Yes — Seafile is open source under AGPL-3.0 (Community Edition). Self-host cost: $5 VPS — efficient sync engine, low overhead.. Dropbox starts at $11.99/user/mo ($11.99/user/mo on Plus tier (2TB)).
How long does Seafile take to set up vs Dropbox?
Self-hosting Seafile: 20min docker-compose. Dropbox is a hosted SaaS — sign up and you're in.
What is Seafile good at, and what is it weak at?
Good fit for: Teams that prioritize raw sync speed over feature breadth.. Weak at: Web UI is plainer; CE lacks some advanced collab features..