Dropbox vs Evernote

Dropbox is known for providing a Cloud-based platform that makes sharing files a simple and easy process. In the past, comparing it to Evernote was like trying to compare an apple to a roast beef sandwich. They were two very different platforms that each provided specific benefits that were complementary with one another.

Then came the introduction of Dropbox Paper. This makes Dropbox a direct competitor with Evernote thanks to its offering of online document creation. Each platform has specific strengths and weaknesses to take a look at, so here are the key points to consider in the Dropbox vs Evernote debate.

What Are the Benefits of Dropbox Paper?

• Paper works with the other components of Dropbox. That means users can store large files off their computer, but still have anywhere access to them.
• The documents which are created with Paper do not currently count toward the storage limits, which means the 2 GB on the free plan can be left open for additional file storage or sharing.
• Links to documents or files can be assigned a specific URL that can be shared to others, including publicly. That makes it easy to share a downloadable PDF, e-book, or other promotional item from your website or service.

Paper eliminates the collaboration difficulties that Dropbox users previously faced. Instead of constantly downloading the latest version, files can be updated in real time. A notification pops up to let users now if they are using an older version of the file.

What Are the Benefits of Evernote?

• Users can clip things from websites while browsing and then save them as part of the note. This makes it possible to save information without copying and pasting or retyping the data so that it will save.
• Business cards can be saved on Evernote, making it easier to keep track of network contacts. They can be photographed and uploaded or scanned directly into the system.
• Each note that is saved is fully searchable, which allows users to quickly and easily find specific bits of information that they have previously saved.

Evernote isn’t designed to handle a large document. If you’re sharing notes with a team and need to create certain schedules, then information sharing is easy. If you’re creating a multi-page document, however, this platform may struggle to meet certain needs.

Point #1: Editing Text

Dropbox Paper has an emphasis on document creation, but creating a complex document is not necessarily as easy as one might think. Users have access to a formatting toolbar, but the text must be selected for the toolbar to appear for the user. There is an option to create bold or strikethrough text on the toolbar once the text has been highlighted. Bulleted text, numbered lists, and subheading H1 or H2 tags are also permitted.

Dropbox Paper permits hyperlinks within the text as well and provides an option for users to leave comments on what has been written.

Evernote is designed to help users take notes that serve as reminders or prompts. Complex document files are not a strength, so the text features available to users is quite limited. When creating a document, users have no options for indentation, headings, or even line spacing. There are options available for points of emphasis, such as a number list, and there are alignment commands that can be assigned. Users have access to a choice of fonts as well.

Both platforms permit simple tables to be added to their documents.

Point #2: Image Inclusion

Both platforms allow images to be included on the document being created with a drag-and-drop method. Just move the photo file from the HDD or desktop into the body of the document and it will appear there, ready for editing.

Dropbox Paper does not support any image editing within the platform. It allows users to drag the image within the document so its placement can be changed. When the image is justified to the right or left, the document will automatically format the text to wrap around the image. Placing the image between paragraphs will cause the image to display at full width. Users can also click on the image to access their personal gallery.

Evernote allows images to be edited after they have been inserted into the document. The image can be cropped or rotated. Lines, shapes, and text can be annotated. It also allows users to change the placement of the image by dragging it to a different location.

Point #3: Rich Media Options

Dropbox Paper allows users to add rich media content to a document file by pasting a link to the file within the document. A variety of media is supported through third-party services, including Spotify, Facebook, and YouTube. Google’s productivity suite is also compatible with this platform. Then, once the file appears after the link has been pasted, users can delete the link to create a clean document without removing the rich media that was added.

Evernote allows users to attach virtually any file to a note that is being created. Documents, PDFs, audio files, video files, and even spreadsheets can all be added to the note. You just click on the paperclip to upload the file, then drag it into the note so it can be used. This platform allows users to record audio directly for inclusion into a note as well. Photos can be added directly when taken by the user’s webcam.

Point #4: Sharing Options

Dropbox Paper provides an option to invite others by email from a document. There is a sharing button located in the top right. Click on it and you’ll be asked to enter a name or an email address. A link to the document is included and users can enter a comment about what is being shared. Within the link settings, users can choose to make the link public or private. Editing is possible through a shared link when the settings are selected to permit that activity.

Evernote also allows users to invite people by email. Right-click on the note and the select the command to share it. Within a chat window, the platform asks for an email address and provides permissions choices that must be selected. People can be invited to view, edit, or even invite others to look at the note. The URL of the note can be pasted into any application as well for sharing. When others are permitted to edit the note, all parties have access to the note’s current version.

Point #5: Collaboration Options

Dropbox Paper provides numerous options for collaboration that occur in real time. Content can be made immediately visible and accessible to specific people through tagging. Mentions can be used within the document to create tasks or assign them to specific people. Attribution, comments, and a full revision history are also available on this platform.

Evernote offers users a work chat feature. Its design allows for notebooks or notes to be shared with other people while providing a system for instant communication with messaging. This makes it possible to replicate many of the features that Dropbox Paper offers, but outside of the document instead of being inside the document.

Point #6: Cost of Use

Dropbox Paper is free to use. Users can sign up directly with Dropbox or use their current Dropbox account to access this feature. Those with a Google profile can sign up for free with it as well. Admins that are on a Dropbox team account have the option to set specific permissions for Paper, which include an option that allows for Paper to be disabled. Files saved do not count toward the total storage capacity of a Dropbox account.

The free, basic plan for Dropbox provides a total of 2 GB of storage and anywhere access to the information. Camera uploads and document scanning are permitted on the free plan as well. The Dropbox Plus plan is $8.25 per month, while the Professional plan is $16.58 per month.

Evernote is accessible through a monthly subscription that equates to $34.99 per year for the Plus plan. A premium plan is available for $69.99 per year. Business plans begin at $12 per month. There is a free plan available as well, but the no-cost tier offers limited sharing options compared to the premium versions.

Dropbox vs Evernote: Which Is Better?

Dropbox Paper is an application that makes sense to use for those who already have a Dropbox account. Free access is available to those who do not and premium plans provide team access options that may be useful. There are file limitations, such as the fact that PDFs are not possible, but collaboration and sharing are simple and easy.

Evernote isn’t designed to work as a word processor, so complex documents are difficult to create on this platform. There are workarounds that can be implemented to deal with some of the limitations, but there may be limitations for some teams because of the note-based design.

Both platforms offer a free tier, which means the solution is simple. Try out each platform to determine which option is right for your needs today.