Cloud Storage
Many of the features of Google Drive and Box are very similar; we recommend you use the tool that is best for your team. Box is strongly recommended for storing and sharing private, confidential, or personally identifiable information (including FERPA data). Google Drive excels at collaborative editing (simultaneous editing by multiple users).
GoogleDrive and Box Comparison
Most of the features of Google Drive, Google Shared drives and Box are very similar; we recommend that you use the tool that is best for your team.
Primary Similarities Between Google Drive and Box
- Available to Brandeis community members with a Brandeis username and password
- Able to view documents online
- Uses a folder structure
- Mobile aware
- A sync tool is available for Windows, Mac and mobile devices
- Able to limit permissions to individuals or display to everyone (within Brandeis or external)
- Allows comments/feedback
Primary Differences Between Google Drive and Box
Feature |
Google Drive |
Box |
---|---|---|
Login |
||
Free storage |
Unlimited drive files (Google Drive-specific files) |
Unlimited |
Store public data |
Yes |
|
Store private data |
No | Only use Box for certain types of sensitive data |
Real-time editing and collaboration |
Yes |
Box Notes only |
Extensive document preview format |
No |
|
Ownership |
Creator of document |
Owner of folder |
Able to limit permissions |
Yes |
Yes |
Accessibility |
Limited. Many features do not work well with standard assistive technologies used by people with disabilities | Excellent. HTML preview and dedicated accessible interface |
Desktop sync |
||
Desktop integration |
Desktop sync only | Box edit permits editing of stored docs in native apps without downloading |
User tutorials |
||
Assign tasks |
Google docs can be integrated into Box.com folders.