Try it before moving everything.
Start with a task you do often. Judge an alternative by what it brings to that task while keeping your current tool during the trial.
Choose what you want to improve
Less advertising, an independent provider or files that are easier to retrieve: start with what matters to you. Country and sovereignty scores offer context; check features and pricing too.
A trial that helps you decide
Choose a task
Write down two essential features and select an alternative that offers them on your devices.
Try a small part
Use copies of a few files or chat with someone who agrees to try it. Keep the originals available.
Check the result
Test search, sharing and phone access. Also check how to retrieve your data if you change your mind.
Expand when it works for you
Move another folder or activity. Keep old access while any data or people still depend on it.
Steps for your use
Switch email services
Create an address and use it for a few conversations before transferring your mailbox.
Compare alternatives →- Send a message and attachment, then check the reply on your phone.
- Check storage limits and import formats. Import a few messages or a folder where supported, then check attachments and dates.
- Keep the old address accessible. Update contacts and account details, especially recovery addresses. Forwarding depends on your old provider.
An address with your old provider does not automatically become one with the new provider. A personal domain requires specific configuration.
Proton documents email imports with Easy Switch; contact and calendar imports depend on the original service. Proton · Easy Switch ↗
- Check availability on both people’s devices and any cost.
- Test a message, photo, call and notifications. Then create a small group if needed.
- Keep useful old conversations. Check what backups export and restore before deleting an app.
Similar features do not guarantee that WhatsApp, Signal or Viber chat history can be imported. Check compatibility between both apps.
Even within Threema, Threema Safe does not restore chat history. A backup and a complete transfer are different things. Threema · Data backup ↗
- Choose some photos and documents. Check storage capacity, then import copies.
- Open the files on a computer and phone. Test sharing with someone else and compare the content with the originals.
- Check permissions and sharing links; these may need to be recreated. Move other folders after checking.
Online office documents may require export. Synchronisation is not an independent backup: it can also propagate deletions.
Infomaniak documents supported sources and transfer requirements for kDrive imports. Infomaniak · Importer sur kDrive ↗
During your trial
For tools you share with others
Invite a friend or small group to try one specific use with you. For professional or social networks, check who you can find there first. A new account does not automatically transfer contacts or an audience.
“I’m trying this app for our conversations about [topic]. Would you like to try it with me? We’ll also keep our usual channel during the trial.”
Keeping both is also an option.
An alternative may suit personal conversations better than your work. You can keep it for that use. If it does not suit you, keep your current tool: the trial will have clarified what you need.
Compare alternatives →