How to Cancel Dropbox Professional and Keep Your Files (2026 Guide)
Updated February 2026 • 5 min read
🚨 Download your files before canceling. The free plan only offers 2GB. If you have hundreds of GB stored, you will lose sync access. Download everything to your computer or move to another service first.
Dropbox was the pioneer of cloud storage, but at $11.99-19.99/month, it is now one of the most expensive options when Google Drive (15GB free) and iCloud exist. Here is how to cancel, keep your files, and switch to a cheaper or free alternative.
Before You Cancel: Save Your Files
Check how much storage you are using (Settings → Plan)
If using the Dropbox desktop app, your files are already on your computer (if set to "Local")
If using "Online-only" files, switch them to "Local" to download: right-click folder → Make available offline
Alternatively, go to dropbox.com and download folders as ZIP files
Navigate through retention offers (they will offer discounts)
Confirm downgrade to the free Basic plan (2GB)
Paid features continue until end of billing period
⚠️ Annual plan trap: If you are on an annual plan, canceling does not give a prorated refund by default. Contact support within 30 days of renewal to request a refund if you recently renewed.
What Happens After Downgrading
Account drops to 2GB free storage
If you are over 2GB, Dropbox stops syncing new changes
Existing files stay on Dropbox servers temporarily
You can still access and download files via dropbox.com
Eventually, Dropbox may delete files over the limit (they send warnings first)
Shared links to your files stop working if files are deleted
Free and Cheaper Alternatives
Google Drive (15GB free): 7.5x more free storage than Dropbox. 2TB for $9.99/month (Google One).
iCloud (5GB free): Best for Apple users. 2TB for $9.99/month. Deep iOS/macOS integration.
OneDrive (5GB free): Included with Microsoft 365 ($6.99/month for 1TB). Best if you use Office apps.
pCloud (10GB free): Lifetime plan available ($399 one-time for 2TB — no recurring fees ever).
💡 Best Dropbox replacement: Google Drive (15GB free, 2TB for $9.99/month). If you want to never pay again: pCloud lifetime plan ($399 one-time for 2TB) pays for itself in 20 months vs Dropbox Plus.
Delete Your Dropbox Account
If you want to completely delete (not just downgrade):
All files, shared links, and account data are permanently deleted
Summary
Download files first — free plan is only 2GB
Cancel: dropbox.com/account/plan → Downgrade to Basic
Delete account: dropbox.com/account/delete
Best free alternative: Google Drive (15GB free)
Best one-time buy: pCloud lifetime ($399 for 2TB)
💡 How many cloud storage services are you paying for?Upload your bank statement to JustCancel — we will find every subscription including storage, backup, and SaaS tools.