The best European alternatives to US cloud solutions, Microsoft 365, Google & Co. – a practical comparison

1. nextcloud

Nextcloud is an open source platform developed in Germany for file synchronization, sharing and digital collaboration. Companies can use it to operate their own cloud infrastructure and keep sensitive data completely under their own control. In addition to classic file hosting, Nextcloud offers integrated functions such as calendars, contacts, task management and an office suite (via integration with Collabora or ONLYOFFICE). Extensive expansion options through apps enable individual adaptation to a wide range of business needs – from project management to video calls.

Replacement potential:
Nextcloud can completely replace Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive and Google Calendar and is suitable as the centerpiece of a data protection-compliant cloud infrastructure.

2. open-Xchange (OX App Suite)

Open-Xchange is a groupware platform developed in Germany that combines classic e-mail services, calendars, task management, contacts and document processing in one integrated solution. Companies benefit from the modularity of the OX App Suite, which enables flexible scaling and integration into existing systems. It is used by many European hosting providers and is available both as a SaaS and on-premises solution – ideal for companies looking for a GDPR-compliant alternative with broad functionality.

Replacement potential:
Open-Xchange can completely replace Google Workspace or Microsoft Exchange/Outlook – including mail, calendar and collaborative document access.

3. ONLYOFFICE

ONLYOFFICE is a powerful office suite from Latvia that can be used as an open source solution both in the browser and locally. The application supports all common Microsoft Office formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx) with high compatibility. In addition to classic Office functions, ONLYOFFICE impresses with its options for real-time collaboration, commenting and version management. The solution can be fully integrated into Nextcloud, ownCloud, Seafile and other platforms.

Replacement potential:
ONLYOFFICE is a fully-fledged alternative to Microsoft Office 365 or Google Docs – especially in combination with a secure hosting platform.

4 Collabora Online

Collabora Online is the web-based version of LibreOffice and enables collaborative editing of documents in the browser – with a full focus on data protection and open source standards. The software is developed in the EU and can be used both independently and via integrations (e.g. with Nextcloud or OpenProject). Documents are not transmitted to third parties during processing – a major advantage over cloud-based US services.

Replacement potential:
Collabora Online can replace Google Docs, Google Sheets and Google Slides – with complete data sovereignty and GDPR compliance.

5 OpenProject

OpenProject is a web-based project management tool from Germany that supports both traditional and agile methods. The software enables Gantt charts, time tracking, ticket management, milestone planning, team communication and much more. By hosting in its own data center or with trusted European providers, project information remains completely under the company’s control.

Replacement potential:
OpenProject replaces Microsoft Project, Trello, Asana or Jira – especially for organizations with high data protection requirements.

6. mailbox.org

Mailbox.org is a secure email provider from Germany that offers a calendar, address book, task management and an office suite in addition to classic email traffic. The servers are located exclusively in Germany and all data is encrypted end-to-end. For business customers, there are extended security functions, journaling and user management.

Replacement potential:
Mailbox.org can completely replace Gmail, Microsoft Outlook.com and their calendar and contact functions – with significantly more data protection.

7. kDrive from Infomaniak

kDrive is a highly secure cloud storage solution from Switzerland and part of Infomaniak’s cloud services. The platform not only enables file storage, but also collaborative editing of Office documents directly in the browser. kDrive is available on all devices, offers extensive synchronization options and is powered 100% by renewable energy. The service meets the highest data protection standards under Swiss and EU law.

Replacement potential:
kDrive replaces Google Drive, Dropbox or Microsoft OneDrive – especially for companies with high compliance requirements.

8 OpenDesk

OpenDesk is a software solution from Germany specially developed for public authorities and administrations. It is based on a combination of proven open source components, including Nextcloud and Collabora Online, and unites them in a user-friendly and maintainable overall platform. The aim is to create a digital infrastructure that is free from dependencies on non-European providers.

Replacement potential:
OpenDesk offers a complete solution for replacing Microsoft 365 in public administrations – with full control over data and infrastructure.

9 OpenCloud

OpenCloud is an open source-based cloud solution for companies that focuses on secure online collaboration and data storage. In addition to traditional file storage, OpenCloud also offers video conferencing, email integration and an office package. The platform was developed specifically with GDPR and digital sovereignty in mind.

Replacement potential:
OpenCloud can replace Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace as the central digital working environment in small to medium-sized companies.

10 Zoho Workplace

Zoho Workplace is a powerful business suite from India that offers tools for communication, intranet and file management in addition to email, document creation, spreadsheets and presentations. Despite its non-European origin, Zoho impresses with its transparent data protection guidelines, versatile functions and scalable offerings.

Replacement potential:
Zoho Workplace can completely replace Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, especially in SMEs – with lower costs and high functionality.

11. tutanota

Tutanota is a German email service with integrated end-to-end encryption and a particularly high focus on privacy. In addition to email, Tutanota also offers calendar functions and mobile apps. The entire infrastructure is located in Germany – free from Cloud Act & Co.

Replacement potential:
Tutanota can replace Gmail or Outlook.com as a privacy-friendly, secure communication platform – ideal for legally sensitive industries.

12. cryptPad

CryptPad is an open source tool from France that enables collaborative work on texts, presentations and tables in real time – with full client-side encryption. Nobody except the participants has access to the content. The software runs directly in the browser without the need for installation.

Replacement potential:
CryptPad is a secure, anonymous alternative to Google Docs and can be used as a central tool for creative team collaboration.

13th ProtonMail

ProtonMail from Switzerland is known worldwide for its consistent encryption and its focus on data protection. The service was developed by CERN scientists and enables confidential communication without third-party access. Extensions such as Proton Calendar or Proton Drive round off the offering.

Replacement potential:
ProtonMail replaces Gmail and Outlook for all those who rely on maximum security and confidentiality – especially in the healthcare and legal sectors.

14 Conclusion

Switching to European software solutions not only offers companies advantages in terms of data protection and compliance, but also strengthens their digital sovereignty. The alternatives presented here show that there are powerful and secure options that are in no way inferior to the established US solutions.

The experts at BITS GmbH are at your disposal with their specialist knowledge to support you in selecting and implementing the right solution. Contact us for comprehensive advice and support.