IN SHORT
The king of free storage: 20 GB and end-to-end encryption by default, based in New Zealand.
- 20 GB free, among the most generous
- End-to-end encryption by default
- Apps for every platform
- Encrypted sharing links
THE BRAND
- Company
- Mega Limited
- Headquarters
- New Zealand (Auckland)
- Founded
- 2013
- Group
- Mega Limited
- Main product
- Encrypted cloud storage
- Audience
- Users who want lots of free storage
ANALYSIS
Our experience with MEGA
20 GB free
One of the most generous free plans on the market.
Encryption by default
Encrypts all your files end-to-end (zero-knowledge) before uploading them.
Cross-platform
Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS, plus the web version.
Keep in mind
If you lose your password you can lose your files, and it carries some controversy over its past (Megaupload).
PROS & CONS
The good and the bad
- 20 GB free, among the most generous
- End-to-end encryption by default
- Apps for every platform
- Encrypted sharing links
- If you lose your password, you lose your files
- Reputation marked by its past (Megaupload)
- New Zealand is part of the «Five Eyes»
FAQ
The most common questions Americans ask about MEGA
Most-searched questions, per Sistrix
Is MEGA better than Google Drive?
For privacy, yes: MEGA encrypts everything end-to-end by default, so it can't read your files, whereas Google Drive is not zero-knowledge. MEGA's free tier is also larger at 20 GB. Google Drive wins on collaboration, Docs and Sheets, search and its deep integration with Android, Gmail and the wider Google ecosystem. So if privacy and generous free space matter most, MEGA is better; if you live in Google's tools and want seamless collaboration, Drive is the more convenient choice.
Is MEGA really secure?
Yes — MEGA applies end-to-end, zero-knowledge encryption by default, so your files are encrypted on your device and MEGA can't read them. Its clients are open source, which lets researchers inspect the code. The important caveat is key management: if you lose your password and your recovery key, your data can become permanently unrecoverable, because only you hold the keys. Store that recovery key somewhere safe.
Is MEGA really free?
Yes. MEGA's free plan gives you 20 GB of encrypted storage (sometimes topped up through bonuses), one of the most generous free tiers anywhere, with no time limit. It's real free storage, not a trial. If you need more room or higher transfer allowances, paid Pro plans start at €8.33/mo and scale into multiple terabytes. Even on the free plan, your files get the same zero-knowledge encryption.
How much does MEGA cost?
MEGA is free for the first 20 GB. Beyond that, its paid Pro plans start at €8.33/mo and scale up to multi-terabyte tiers with much higher transfer limits. Pricing can vary by region and by any promotions running, so check the current rates on MEGA's official site before subscribing. For the storage plus built-in zero-knowledge encryption, the paid plans are competitively priced.
Is MEGA legit?
Yes. MEGA is a legitimate, widely used cloud service operated by Mega Limited in New Zealand, with tens of millions of users worldwide. Its end-to-end encryption and unusually generous free tier are genuine, not marketing gimmicks. It's a real, established company, not a scam.
Who owns MEGA?
MEGA is operated by Mega Limited, a New Zealand company launched in 2013. Although it was originally associated with its controversial founder, Kim Dotcom, he left years ago and no longer has any involvement in or control over the company.
Can MEGA see my files?
No. MEGA uses zero-knowledge, end-to-end encryption, so your files are encrypted on your device with keys that only you hold. MEGA's servers store only encrypted data and cannot view the contents of what you upload — provided you keep your password and recovery key safe.
VERDICT
Is MEGA right for you?
The king of free storage: 20 GB and end-to-end encryption by default, based in New Zealand.
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