Datum Storage vs Filecoin

Datum Storage is decentralized cloud storage running on the Datum Network, with access listed for Android, iOS, and API use. Datum Drive adds a virtual hard disk to a computer that behaves like a folder. The product says files are end-to-end encrypted and that users hold the key. Storage accounts attach to a Datum Identity, whose creation requires email and phone verification. For software connections, the service supports the Amazon S3 API format and custom S3 endpoints. After account creation, users receive a URL plus a key and secret corresponding to S3 access credentials; Datum recommends Signature Version 4 if a backup application offers a choice. Arq Backup for Mac and Windows is listed as tested. Duplicati, Duplicity, and Duplicacy are named as S3-compatible applications but have not been tested by Datum. The Datum ID app is listed in the App Store and Google Play for sign-up and credential and usage management, though the mobile workflow is described as coming soon. A free plan provides one terabyte for the first year. Additional storage is listed at US$3.99 per terabyte per month and is also described as coming soon.

Filecoin is a decentralized storage network where users pay independent providers to store data and retrieve it later. Proof of Replication verifies that a provider holds a distinct copy, while Proof of Spacetime verifies storage over time. Listed uses include Web3 apps, AI datasets, backups, archives, cultural records, and scientific datasets. The Filecoin Virtual Machine adds smart contracts for logic, automation, and applications built around storage. Filecoin Onchain Cloud lists verifiable storage and retrieval, programmable payments, and a Synapse TypeScript SDK. Integrations listed through other services include Snowflake and Apache Iceberg via Akave, and Nextcloud via CIDgravity. Plans vary: Filecoin Onchain Cloud is $2.50 a month, billed from $2.50 / TB / month with a two-copy minimum; Fil One is $4.99 a month, billed from $4.99 / TB / month. CIDgravity is $5 a month, billed from $5 / TB / month, with the first 2 GiB free. Lighthouse is $12 a month, billed from $12 / 500 GB / month, with the first 5 GB free. Fil One has a free trial. Lotus node installation supports Linux and macOS; Windows is not supported for that installation.