Ente is an end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) photo storage app, that provides a secure way to backup your photos. Open source, externally audited apps are available for every platform, including Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, iOS, and even de-googled mobile devices.
Apple Photos is photo management app pre-installed on Apple devices, that offers editing capabilities and seamless integration with other devices within the Apple ecosystem.
Comparison
| Ente Photos | Apple Photos | |
|---|---|---|
| Open Source | ✅ Yes | No |
| Cross-Platform | ✅ Accessible on all devices | Accessible only on Apple devices and web |
| E2EE | ✅ Your photos are encrypted on your device before they reach our servers and only you hold the decryption keys | Advertises E2EE, but unverifiable due to proprietary source code |
| Privacy | ✅ Externally audited end-to-end encryption ensures that no one but you can access your photos | Very low by default, higher if Advanced Security is enabled |
| Pricing | Competitive | Competitive |
| Family Plans | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| AI Features | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Partner Sharing | ✅ Yes, with E2EE | No |
| Link Sharing | ✅ Yes, with E2EE | Yes, but without E2EE |
| Collaboration | ✅ Yes, with E2EE | Yes, but without E2EE |
| Collect Photos | ✅ Yes, without an account, E2EE | No |
| User Interface | Simple and user-friendly, built with a focus on user experience | User-friendly |
| Data Durability | ✅ Reliable data backup system that replicates your data to 3 different countries, including a fallout shelter under the ground | ✅ Apple's infrastructure should be mature to ensure high durability |
| Data Export | ✅ Easy, with a single click | Very difficult |
| Customer Support | ✅ Dedicated support team | ✅ Dedicated support team |
| Community | ✅ Lovely community | Apple Discussions; Official responses are rare |
Summary
When it comes to choosing a photo storage service, the decision comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If privacy and data security are your top concerns, ente, with its end-to-end encryption and open-source nature, is an excellent choice. You have the assurance that your photos are encrypted, keeping them secure from unauthorized access at all times. Moreover, the open-source aspect allows the service to be transparent, offering an opportunity for independent verifiable audits.
Apple Photos offers a seamless integration for Apple device users and provides features like image recognition. However, it falls short in terms of accessibility, since your data is locked down to their ecosystem. ente on the other hand has open source apps for every possible device.
Ready to switch to a more secure and accessible photo storage service?
Try ente now to experience the difference.