Cryptomator vs Rclone

Cryptomator creates encrypted vaults with a GUI, while Rclone offers command-line encryption. Different approaches to keeping data private!

Quick comparison

Key differences

Cryptomator (vault-based encryption)

• GUI app that creates encrypted vaults
• Works with any cloud sync service (Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.)
• Mobile apps for iOS/Android ($10 each)
• Open vault → work with files → lock when done

Rclone crypt (remote-based encryption)

• CLI tool that encrypts during transfer
• Direct integration with 70+ cloud providers
• Scriptable for automated workflows
• Perfect for servers and headless systems

When to use each tool

Setup Examples

Cryptomator workflow:

1. Create vault in Dropbox folder
2. Open vault (enter password)
3. Work with files normally
4. Lock vault when done

Rclone crypt setup:

# Configure encrypted remote
rclone config
# Create crypt remote pointing to gdrive:encrypted

# Use encrypted remote
rclone sync /local/files secret:

Security & performance

Encryption Standards

Both use AES-256 encryption with Scrypt key derivation and are open source. The main difference is implementation:

• Cryptomator: Individual file encryption within vaults
• Rclone: Encrypts during transfer to remote

Mobile Access

• Cryptomator: ✅ Official iOS/Android apps with Face/Touch ID
• Rclone: ❌ No mobile apps (not practical for phones)

Resource Usage

• Cryptomator: 100-500MB RAM (GUI overhead)
• Rclone: 50-200MB RAM (only during operations)

Decision matrix

Tip: Many users combine both: Cryptomator for active files with GUI access, Rclone for automated encrypted backups.