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Box vs CryptPad

A side-by-side look at Box (the paid SaaS) and CryptPad (the open source alternative). Use this page to decide if the switch fits your team and workflow.

Box CryptPad
Tagline Enterprise cloud content management with compliance controls. End-to-end encrypted collaboration suite.
License Proprietary SaaS AGPL-3.0
Pricing Business from $15/user/month; per-feature pricing for Governance and Shield. Free to self-host · optional paid hosted plan
Self-host option No Yes — difficulty 3/5
Hosted cloud available Yes (only option) Yes
Desktop apps Varies by product Web only
Mobile apps Official apps typically available None official
Ad slot — between tables

Best for

When confidential documents must stay encrypted end-to-end in the browser.

CryptPad strengths

  • Zero-knowledge encryption — even the server cannot read docs.
  • Includes pad, sheets, kanban, whiteboard.
  • Public instance available.

CryptPad weaknesses

  • Feature depth below Google Docs for heavy users.
  • Search across pads is limited.
  • Some editors are lighter than mainstream equivalents.

What's the catch with Box?

  • Pricing climbs fast once compliance modules are needed.
  • Consumer-grade UX on mobile despite enterprise positioning.
  • Export options for full accounts are painful.

Still unsure?

Check the full list of alternatives to Box: see Box alternatives, or learn more about CryptPad on its project page.

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