MEGA
FreemiumEnd-to-end encrypted cloud storage and communication platform offering 20GB free, file sharing, chat, and video calling with zero-knowledge encryption.
What does this tool do?
MEGA is an end-to-end encrypted cloud storage platform that positions privacy as its core differentiator rather than an add-on feature. Beyond basic file storage, it offers a comprehensive suite of privacy-focused tools including a VPN client, password manager (MEGA Pass), encrypted chat and video calling, file syncing, backup capabilities, and object storage for businesses. The zero-knowledge encryption model means MEGA itself cannot access user data—only the user and authorized recipients hold decryption keys. It competes directly with Google Drive and Dropbox by offering substantially more storage for less money (claiming $1.25 per TB/month vs Dropbox's $5.53) while bundling additional security tools that competitors charge separately for or don't offer at all.
AI analysis from Feb 23, 2026
Key Features
- End-to-end encrypted cloud storage with up to 20TB capacity on premium plans
- Zero-knowledge encryption where MEGA cannot access user data or encryption keys
- Integrated VPN with ad blocking and full-speed unlimited traffic
- MEGA Pass password manager with autofill, password generation, and zero-knowledge storage
- Encrypted chat and video calling accessible to non-MEGA users via shareable links
- File syncing across desktop, mobile, and web with real-time replication
- Granular sharing controls including read-only access, expiring links, and password protection
- MEGA S4 object storage with S3 API compatibility for developers and enterprises
Use Cases
- 1Privacy-conscious individuals storing sensitive personal documents and photos without server-side scanning
- 2Remote teams collaborating on confidential projects with encrypted folder sharing and real-time sync across devices
- 3Freelancers and contractors needing secure client file handoffs with expiring links and password-protected sharing
- 4Businesses requiring GDPR/compliance-friendly storage with granular access controls and audit trails
- 5Developers and media professionals using MEGA S4 object storage as a cost-effective, S3-compatible alternative to AWS
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Aggressive pricing—$1.25/TB/month on Pro III plan undercuts Dropbox and Google One significantly while including encryption standard
- Zero-knowledge architecture is genuine: MEGA cannot decrypt or read user files, eliminating concerns about data scraping or government requests reaching decrypted content
- Bundled feature set reduces tool sprawl—VPN, password manager, chat, and storage in one ecosystem avoids paying multiple subscriptions
- Generous free tier (20GB) with no time limit removes friction for personal users testing privacy-first workflows
Limitations
- Desktop and mobile apps have received mixed reviews for stability and performance compared to Dropbox's polished experience
- Limited third-party integrations—fewer native connections to project management, CRM, or collaboration tools than mainstream competitors
- Company's controversial founder Kim Dotcom association creates brand perception risk despite MEGA's operational independence since his departure
- Zero-knowledge encryption, while privacy-strengthening, can complicate account recovery if passwords are lost—no backdoor reset exists
Pricing Details
Free tier: 20GB of encrypted storage with no expiration. Pro I: 400GB ($4.99/month), Pro II: 2TB ($9.99/month), Pro III: 8TB ($19.99/month). Business plans start at €11/user/month. MEGA Pass password manager: From approximately €1.99/month after 30-day free trial (exact price varies by region). Pro Flexi and custom enterprise plans available for users needing storage beyond 20TB. Pricing comparison shown: MEGA Pro III costs $1.25/TB/month, Dropbox Essentials costs $5.53/TB/month, Google One Premium costs $4.17/TB/month (all annual billing).
Who is this for?
Privacy-focused individuals concerned about data scraping; remote teams handling confidential information; freelancers and consultants requiring secure client file sharing; small businesses and startups avoiding vendor lock-in; developers needing affordable S3-compatible object storage; enterprises in regulated industries (finance, healthcare, legal) requiring zero-knowledge compliance; users in restrictive jurisdictions seeking encryption-first communication tools.