The best cloud storage with sync provides seamless file synchronization across multiple devices, ensuring your data is always up-to-date and easily accessible. With top-notch security measures and ample storage space, it offers a reliable and user-friendly solution for storing and sharing files in the cloud.
The Best Cloud Storage and File-Sharing Services for 2023
Source: https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-cloud-storage-and-file-sharing-services
Best Cloud Storage With Sync in 2023 [Features, Speed & More] – Cloudwards
Best Cloud Storage With Sync in 2023 [Features, Speed & More] Cloudwards.net may earn a small commission from some purchases made through our site. However, any affiliate earnings do not affect how we review services.
File synchronization is one of the most important features of a cloud storage service. All cloud storage has file sync; without it, it’s just a cloud backup service (read our to learn the difference). However, when it comes to , some services have better file syncing than others.
Key Takeaways: File Syncing Services
How a cloud storage provider implements its file synchronization features and tools directly impacts the end user’s sync experience. A sync folder is a standard way cloud storage keeps exact copies of your files updated and available. Having your files synced between your account and your device is another common sync feature.
Many of the cloud storage providers in this article also appear on our list of the . However, keep reading to see why they also rank well for file synchronization, in particular.
Top Cloud Storage Apps With Sync
What Makes the Best Cloud Storage With Sync?
File synchronization keeps your files identical between your online account and your device. However, a few factors separate the best cloud storage services with sync. We’ve found that the following cloud storage providers offer the best cloud storage with sync.
Some cloud storage services offer advanced sync features, such as a virtual drive. A virtual drive functions like a hard drive, and allows the user to store files online and free up hard disk space.
File transfer speed plays a role as well, as a slow sync service could hamper otherwise excellent features. We also consider elements like ease of use, privacy and security — the last two being reasons Google Drive didn’t make our list, despite its ability to easily sync files (read our full for more details).
The 5 Best Cloud Storage Services With Sync Features
pCloud tops our list, combining excellent sync features that support with great transfer speeds, strong security and privacy. Although not as feature-rich as pCloud, Icedrive has a number of file syncing features, including a virtual drive for Windows computers.
Despite some privacy concerns, Dropbox’s file synchronization is a standout feature. Sync.com and MEGA do file sync well, although they can feel basic compared to the others.
1.
More details about pCloud:
Pros:
Cons:
pCloud stands out as our top choice for cloud storage provider with sync, as it lets you sync any file or folder you upload or create. You can add or remove folders and customize your account with ease. Additionally, pCloud supports block-level syncing, which — combined with fast upload and download speeds — lets you stay productive while working with larger files.
Downloading pCloud Drive to a computer or mobile device keeps your files instantly synced across your account. With pCloud Drive, you have access to selective sync, giving you the flexibility to choose which files or folders to sync.
Additionally, you can enable a virtual drive through the pCloud Drive desktop app. Creating a virtual drive lets you work on files as if they were on your computer without taking up additional hard disk space.
Strong Privacy and Security
Privacy and security are excellent with pCloud, as it uses 256-bit AES encryption for data in transit. Once your data is on pCloud’s servers, your data remains protected with TLS/SSL encryption.
This level of security is fine for most files. However, if you plan to store confidential or sensitive files, you’ll want to opt for greater encryption. You might also opt for the European data centers for GDPR protections.
All accounts have a locked encrypted folder, available only when purchasing pCloud Crypto. With pCloud Crypto, accounts gain access to this folder which includes client-side and . pCloud Crypto does not extend to all your folders, and some paid plans still require the additional cost to unlock the encryption folder.
includes 2GB of space, and you can get up to 10GB once you complete micro tasks such as downloading the desktop app or uploading a file. Paid plans with pCloud are competitive and affordable; the 2TB plan costs just $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year. All paid pCloud plans have a 10-day money-back guarantee. Check out our to learn more.
Business
Business Pro
pCloud Crypto Encryption
2.
More details about Icedrive:
Pros:
Cons:
Icedrive is an excellent cloud storage provider offering syncing features. Each account has a main sync folder with the option to create custom folders or sync folders from your devices. Icedrive’s file synchronization works well, as the overall upload and download speeds are very good.
However, where Icedrive really shines is with its virtual drive, or mounted cloud software. Only available for Windows, the Icedrive virtual drive simulates a real hard disk on your computer by connecting with Icedrive’s servers and giving you access to your files without occupying additional disk space.
MacOS and Linux don’t support mounted cloud software. However, the Icedrive desktop app brings added functionality and customization to these platforms, making it easy to manage files and folders. The desktop app for Mac and Linux replicates the website experience, but allows users to customize concurrent uploads or downloads and change the download and edit folder paths.
Preview Your Files
Icedrive’s user interface (UI) is sleek and easy to use, as it gets out of the way and lets users simply interact with their data. A noticeable element of the UI is the file preview feature. Many cloud storage providers have some version of file previews, but Icedrive’s is a step above, particularly with media files.
Videos play directly from the web browser, and you can make the video preview full-screen. Other supported file types include JPG, PDF, DOC and XLSX. Supporting many file types for preview makes it easy to identify your files without having to download them first. File preview also works on the desktop app, including full-screen video playback.
Icedrive makes it easy to by offering 10GB. Other options include monthly or annual plans, including 1TB for $49.99 per year. Icedrive also offers , allowing you to pay one price upfront instead of a recurring subscription. All paid plans come with a 14-day money-back guarantee. Check out our to learn more.
Free
Lite
Pro
Pro+
3.
More details about Dropbox:
Pros:
Cons:
Dropbox supports block-level syncing, which keeps edited documents up to date by processing only new edits for every change. Additionally, Dropbox has smart sync and selective sync. Selective sync gives the user the flexibility and control to decide which folders to sync and which to exclude. This, however, requires downloading the desktop application.
Smart sync works differently than selective sync, although the two often need clarifying. Dropbox’s smart sync lets users set files or folders to online-only access. By doing this, these items don’t take up space on a device’s hard drive. Smart sync folders and files appear in a Dropbox account, making them easily accessible. Check out our article to learn more.
From a productivity and collaboration standpoint, Dropbox excels among its competitors due to its excellent file sharing. Of all the services on our list, its desktop sync works the best with the Dropbox folder.
Stay Productive
Dropbox promotes productivity and collaboration through numerous third-party app integrations, including and Office 365. These popular productivity suites make it easy to keep projects and teams connected, and collaboration efforts moving forward.
It also supports communication with app integrations to Slack and Zoom. Other third-party connections to Dropbox include Canva for graphic design and Adobe for PDF files.
Dropbox has native apps such as Dropbox Paper, an integrated note-taking app. We cover more in our . “Dropbox sign” lets you prepare and sign documents, while DocSend is an advanced document-sharing feature with real-time analytics.
Another Dropbox native app, Capture, allows you to record and share screen captures or recordings, a nice feature for creating video training or sending team messages.
The only comes with 2GB of storage. That’s enough to try the service, but it falls far short of doing any meaningful work. Dropbox offers affordable plans, such as the 2TB Plus plan at $9.99 per month when billed annually ($11.99 per month, otherwise). For a deeper dive, check out our .
Dropbox Professional
Dropbox Business Standard
Dropbox Business Advanced
4.
More details about Sync.com:
Pros:
Sync.com tops many of our lists as the best cloud storage service. However, when it comes to file synchronization, Sync.com doesn’t offer quite as much as its competitors. You can upload folders from your device to sync across your account. Additionally, any custom-created folders stay synchronized.
It offers selective sync when using the desktop app. Like other cloud storage providers on this list, selective sync on Sync.com allows you to select or deselect folders to sync with your account. You can customize your selective sync settings through the app.
Sync.com does not support block-level syncing due in part to its zero-knowledge encryption, meaning it does not have access to your files. This means that even small changes to a large file require the entire file to download and upload, potentially hampering efficiency. Additionally, the service’s speeds are on the slower side, which can impact productivity working with large files.
Professional File Sharing
Sync.com is an excellent service for any user; however, there are a number of business-focused features that make it great for the workplace.
The client file portal is one such example, and it makes professional file sharing easy and efficient. It allows businesses to include their branding on the portal, adding to the professional presentation when sending business documents such as proposals or briefings.
As a feature with most of Sync.com’s business plans, the client file portal allows you to send password-protected files securely to protect customer data. Additionally, the client file portal has real-time insight and email notifications that support time-sensitive documents. A built-in file preview is offered as well.
A comes with only 5GB of storage, but Sync.com offers many affordable paid plan options. The 2TB Pro Solo Basic rings in at just $8 per month, billed annually. All paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Check out our comprehensive to learn more.
Pro Teams Standard
Pro Teams Unlimited
5.
More details about MEGA:
Pros:
Cons:
MEGA does many things well, including file synchronization. All accounts have access to something called the main cloud drive folder. Within this folder you can create additional folders to customize your account folder and file structure. However, MEGA does not support block-level syncing.
Downloading the MEGA desktop app creates a MEGAsync folder on your computer. The MEGAsync folder is your dedicated space for syncing files and folders on your computer. The MEGA desktop app allows you to choose which folders to sync and create additional paths to local folders, meaning you can have multiple sync folders simultaneously.
The mobile app functions as a way to access your account on the go. Your MEGAsync folder is included, and the mobile app gives you the ability to upload photos, scan documents or add new folders.
Effective Collaboration
One area where MEGA could improve is in third-party app integrations. To mitigate this, MEGA allows anyone to access folders or files you share with them without the need to have a MEGA account. You won’t have real-time collaboration or document editing, but you can use MEGA to work with others on projects.
Using the MEGAdrop folder, anyone can send folders or files to your account, even without a MEGA account of their own. Any folder on your MEGA account can become a MEGAdrop folder by selecting this option from the dropdown menu.
MEGA offers one of the data allotments at 20GB (with the potential to add more free space by completing a few micro-tasks). However, MEGA’s cloud storage costs are expensive compared to its competition. The 2TB plan costs $10.86 per month or $108.69 annually. Read our for more information on this cloud storage service.
Final Thoughts: Cloud Storage With Sync
Selecting the best cloud storage with file sync is difficult, as there are many great providers to choose from. , offering excellent speeds, decent cloud storage cost and file sync customization.
feature that compliments its fast upload and download speeds. Despite privacy concerns and a small free plan, . and round out our list, offering capable but basic file sync experiences.
How important is file sync to you? Do you use one of the cloud storage providers listed here? Which one is the best cloud storage service for syncing? Are there other cloud storage services that we missed? Let us know in the comments section below. As always, thanks for stopping by.
Source: https://www.cloudwards.net/best-cloud-storage-with-sync/
Best cloud storage of 2023 | TechRadar
Best cloud storage of 2023
(Image credit: Future)
The best cloud storage services make it simple and easy to back up all of your files and folders to the cloud, whether for business or personal use.
Whether you like it or not, cloud services have become essential in today’s work environment. Fueled by the rise in remote workingand the need for online collaboration, cloud storage and online services have become a part of most people’s everyday workflow.
These online services include everything from the to. Offering plenty of storage capacity, they make it easy to secure, access, and share files wherever you are, online, on desktop, and on mobile.
It’s not just for online working that cloud services have become important for – services have become integral to many people and organizations’ backup process, in order to ensure they have a safe and secure off-site backup to compliment on-premise ones, as part of a .
To help you find the right one for you we’ve reviewed the best cloud storage services, looking at set-up, security, sync speeds, and sharing performance. We’ve checked file recovery and versioning options, so everyone’s always on the same page. You’ll also find a range of pricing plans across all platforms we tested – from the , to for long-term users.
Best cloud storage deals, right now
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best.
Which is the best cloud storage service?
For both cloud backup and storage, our top pick remains IDrive – with an easy setup process, unlimited device allowances, and the best deal we’ve seen to date – just .
is a strong option for those looking for the best cloud storage for photos and other files, owing to its built-in playback features, file sharing tools, and great value lifetime plans.
, as you’ll guess from the name, only synchronises files, but it does this exceptionally well.
Backblaze is another brilliant backup tool that gets ahead of the pack by offering unlimited storage across both its personal and business offerings. .
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The best cloud storage services of 2023 in full:
Best all-rounder thanks to its stack of features, top security and rock bottom prices
Specifications
Free tier: 5GB
Storage size: 5-10TB
Number of devices: Unlimited
Reasons to buy
+
No annoying device limits, connect as many as you need
+
Excellent security
+
Highly configurable
+
Easy to use
Reasons to avoid
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No unlimited storage option
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Appealing price point is for a “limited time only”
IDrive tops our best cloud storage charts with its appealing mix of easy-to-use desktop and mobile apps, excellent backup features, strong security and great value.
Signing up gets you from 10TB (personal) to 50TB (business) , but pure storage is just the start. Sync support keeps files up-to-date across all your hardware, and excellent backup features enable protecting everything from individual files and folders to full SQL, Exchange, SharePoint and other servers. We found this was very easy to use, and our tests revealed iDrive’s performance was a close match to Drive and the other top contenders.
The service is strong on the security fundamentals, with end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication to protect you from attack. But it also excels at extras, such as an option to transfer your data to iDrive on a physical device, ideal if you’ve a slow internet connection and 50TB to protect. IDrive sends you the drive, pays return postage (in the US), but it’s still free once a year for personal users (three times for business plans.)
The free tier gives you a decent 10GB storage, more than enough to try the apps and get a look at what iDrive has to offer. And if you like what you see, right now there’s a spectacular deal offering 10TB storage for only $3.98 for the first year, little more than $0.01 a day.
Read our full .
Strong on security with some pleasing privacy touches
Specifications
Free tier: 10GB
Storage: 20GB-20TB/ user
Number of devices: Unlimited
Reasons to buy
+
Advanced security features
+
Reliable customer support
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Easy-to-use interface
Reasons to avoid
–
Limited collaboration features compared to more established competitors
–
Several hoops to jump through for the free plan
Internxt is a security-focused cloud storage provider who applies multiple technologies to ensure your data stays safe. End-to-end encryption shields your data from snoopers; the service stores files in chunks spread around its networks, protecting it from hardware failures; a virus scanner checks your files for malware, it even checks your account for weak passwords.
You can be sure of this as unlike other ‘secure’ cloud providers, Internxt is committed to open source. This means that the source code for their apps are available on Github so developers can check that end-to-end encryption and other features have been set up correctly.
Paid plans start at just €0.99 a month for 20GB, a low total but also not much storage. Fortunately you get 2TB for a reasonable €9.99 per month, and the business plans offer up to 20TB for €190 per month (to cover two users.)
We found Intrnxt’s well-designed web view and apps did a good job of helping us find and manage files. Windows Explorer and Mac Finder integration made uploading as simple as a drag and drop. Sync support keeps files up-to-date across all your devices, and you can share files with others via custom links.
Internxt can’t quite match the advanced features you’ll find with OneDrive or Dropbox, and it has one or two small unexpected hassles. Although there’s a free 10GB plan, for instance, to get it all you must install both the desktop and mobile apps (1GB each), share a file via a link (1GB) and invite five friends. (1GB each). Still, Internxt’s security-first approach and quality apps give it a lot of appeal, and if that’s what you’re after, it more than deserves a place on your shortlist.
Read our full .
Best for value if you’re happy to pay a one-off fee
Specifications
Free tier: 10GB
Storage size: 500GB-2TB
Number of devices: 5
Reasons to buy
+
Great value lifetime plans
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Desktop, mobile and web apps
+
Play media files without downloading
+
Business plan restores versions up to 180 days old
Reasons to avoid
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5 device limit
–
Unintuitive interface
–
Storage allowances may not be enough for some use cases
Swiss-based pCloud stands out from the cloud storage crowd for its hugely advanced file sharing features. If regular download links aren’t enough, you can create special download pages with custom messages, build slideshows of shared images, even stream audio or video files directly from your storage space.
There’s no monthly pricing, but annual plans are fair value at $49.99 for 500GB, $99.99 for 2TB. Even better, pCloud’s lifetime plans give you 500GB forever for a one-off $199, 2TB for $399, or 10TB for $1190. There’s a 10GB free plan, too, though beware: like Internxt, you must sign up friends, install the app and more to get the full amount.
We found the service very easy to set up and use. Sample folders and files helped us immediately try out its powerful file management and sharing features. We had no issues connecting our account to Facebook, Instagram and other social media accounts, and backing up their content. The desktop app adds a Dropbox-like virtual drive to your file manager, simplifying operations, but Internxt’s mobile app can make life even easier by (optionally) automatically uploading pictures and videos direct from your phone.
There’s a lot to like here, but we also noticed one or two issues. The desktop interface is a little dated, not quite as slick as some of the competition. 2TB isn’t a lot of storage by today’s standards, either, and iDrive’s Personal plans can give you up to 20TB for only a little more.
Read our full .
Best for out-of-the-box security
Specifications
Free tier: 5GB
Storage size: 1TB-6TB
Number of devices: Unlimited
Reasons to buy
+
Easy to use
+
Excellent speeds
++
Comprehensive file sharing tools
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Good multi-user deals
Reasons to avoid
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Single folder sync
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Above average prices for individuals
Sync.com may not have the range of features you’ll see elsewhere, but (as the name suggests) it excels at simple file syncing, delivering an easy-to-use, speedy and secure service that works for personal and business users.
There’s still plenty of power here. Sophisticated file sharing allows creating read-only, password-protected or expiring links, set download limits and more. Sync.com’s versioning supports restoring files from at least the last 180 days (most providers stop at 30.) The mobile apps can automatically sync photos and videos as you take them, while two-factor authentication and end-to-end encryption keep your account and data safe.
We found Sync.com’s apps and web interface slick and easy to use, and performance was a real highlight, with both upload and download speeds amongst the best we’ve seen.
Sync.com particularly impressed us with its team-friendly features, including the ability to add comments to file sharing links, share folders with groups of people, open and edit Office documents direct from your Sync space (if you’ve Office 365) and manage all your users from a central console.
Prices start higher than most, with a 2TB personal plan costing $96 a year. But demanding team users can get unlimited storage for only $360 per user per year (minimum two users). This works out at $15 per user per month. You can also choose to pay a monthly fee of $18 per user instead. There’s a 5GB free plan to try it out, and you can expand this to 27GB by carrying out various tasks (some as simple as creating a folder.)
Read our full .
Best for backups, and a year for free with our exclusive deal
Specifications
Free tier: None
Storage size: Unlimited
Number of devices: 1 (Personal Plan)
Reasons to buy
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No storage or file size limits
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Free for a year when purchased with ExpressVPN
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Easy to use
+
Backblaze will send you up to 8TB of your data on a physical hard drive
Reasons to avoid
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Few features beyond backups
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Each account covers a single PC or Mac device only
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No network drive syncing
Backblaze is a high-powered cloud backup service which provides unlimited storage with no file size limits for a very fair price.
Install the Backblaze desktop app and it immediately scans for important files, and begins uploading them. You’re able to take manual control, if you like, but we found it simpler to let Backblaze handle everything automatically.
The initial transfer of data to the web can take a long time, but our tests found impressive upload speeds kept delays to a minimum. And on the download front, if you need your data in a hurry, Backblaze will ship up to 8TB to your door on a USB drive.
The focus on backups means there’s no file syncing, no clever collaboration tools, and only the simplest of file sharing options. You can only protect one computer per account, too, and network drives aren’t supported.
If you’re just looking for an ultra-simple high capacity backup service, though, Backblaze is a must-see. Prices start at a good value $7 billed monthly, $5.83 on the annual plan.
If you also need a VPN to protect yourself online, you can alternatively get Backblaze completely free for a year when you sign up to our #1 favorite, ExpressVPN (and you get three extra months of ExpressVPN protection, too).
Read our full .
Best for Windows file management
Specifications
Free tier: 10GB
Storage capacity: 150GB-5TB
Number of devices: Unlimited
Reasons to buy
+
Highly secure
+
Easy-to-use interface
+
No file size limits
+
Low starting prices with great-value lifetime options
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Virtual drive mounting on Windows
Reasons to avoid
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Short on collaboration features
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3GB/ day bandwidth limit on the free plan
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Some inconsistencies between desktop and mobile apps
UK-based IceDrive has only been in the cloud storage business for a very few years, but its groundbreaking file management features more than justify its place in our ‘Best…’ list.
Windows users can browse their storage space from Explorer, for example, moving, renaming, opening and even editing files, just like working on a local drive. Install the Windows, Mac and Linux app and you can also preview documents and stream media files without having to download them first.
The clean and easy-to-navigate browser interface is so simple that even newbies will figure it out in moments. The desktop and mobile apps have similar functionality, but we found inconsistencies in design and layout made them a little more awkward to use.
Security is a highlight, with IceDrive encrypting data on your device before it’s transferred, and its zero-knowledge approach ensuring only you can decrypt and view your data. We like the addition of two-factor authentication, which works with an authenticator or a physical key. SMS authentication is available to premium customers but we don’t recommend using this, as text messages are far easier to intercept than one time passwords generated by reliable authenticator apps.
A 10GB free plan gives you an easy way to get started, although with some restrictions (no client-side encryption, a 3GB/ day bandwidth limit.) If you need more, annual plans range from $1.67 a month for 150GB, $4.17 for 1TB and $15 for 5TB. IceDrive even offers lifetime plans, including 150GB for a one-off $99, and 10TB for $999.
Read our full .
Best combination of security and ease of use
Specifications
Free tier: 3GB
Storage capacity: 150GB-5TB
Number of devices: Unlimited
Reasons to buy
+
Good on the security front
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Slick and user-friendly app
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Trusted big-name provider
Reasons to avoid
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Only 3GB storage with the free plan
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Few features
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Price hikes on plan renewal
Wondering which cloud storage providers you can trust? Choosing a company with a strong track in privacy is a good place to start, and NordLocker is hard to beat: it comes from the people behind , one of the best and most successful around.
We’ve reviewed more than 20 cloud storage platforms recently, and NordLocker is one of the easiest to use. The desktop apps enable uploading, downloading and managing your files with little more than a drag and drop. The mobile apps are a little more basic, just a browser which redirects to NordLocker’s browser portal, but they’re also easy to use.
The service scores well on the fundamentals. We found NordLocker’s leading-edge encryption extremely quick, upload times were reasonable, and the addition of multi-factor authentication protects your account from attackers.
Prices for the personal plans seem low at $2.99 a month (billed annually) for 500GB, $6.99 for 2TB, but beware: they leap to $4.99 and $14.99 on renewal. Fortunately, a free plan gives you 3GB storage to play with. That’s a little disappointing when you often get 5-10GB elsewhere, sometimes more, but it’s still enough to see how NordLocker works for you.
Read our full .
Best for keen Windows 10/ 11 and Office users
Specifications
Free tier: 5GB
Storage capacity: 100GB-6TB
Number of devices: Up to 30
Reasons to buy
+
Especially easy to use from Windows
+
At least 1TB included with Microsoft 365
+
Edit Office documents without downloading them
Reasons to avoid
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No zero-knowledge encryption
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Only 5GB free storage
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Not the simplest interface at times
Microsoft OneDrive doesn’t have the features of some of the cloud storage competition, but its Windows and Microsoft 365 integration, XBox support, and extreme ease of use, make this a great solution for anyone committed to the Microsoft world.
OneDrive comes built into Windows 10/ 11, for instance, so there’s nothing to install. It shows up in Explorer, and you can drag and drop files to sync them to the cloud and your other devices. Microsoft 365 support includes auto-saving to the cloud, and collaboration options include the ability to work on documents simultaneously with others, or share them via OneDrive-generated links.
Microsoft hasn’t forgotten other platforms, but we found they delivered mixed results on the usability front. The web interface covers the basics, for instance, but doesn’t have the simplicity or style of Google Drive or Dropbox. The Mac client is more straightforward, though we found some conflicts with iCloud. The elegant and intuitive mobile apps are the real highlight, though, with strong photo and video syncing tools and solid security.
OneDrive’s free plan offers only 5GB, half the allowance you’ll get with some providers. You can pay $19.99 a year to upgrade, but that still only gets you 100GB. Microsoft 365 users get the best value, with Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and 1TB of OneDrive storage from as little as $70 a year.
Read our full .
Best for those who are using Google Workspace
Specifications
Free tier: 15GB
Storage capacity: 200GB-2TB
Number of devices: Unlimited
Reasons to buy
+
Included with Android and free Google accounts
+
Generous free storage allowance
+
Integrated online office suite
+
Speedy and simple to use
Reasons to avoid
–
Ties you into Google’s ecosystem
–
No end-to-end encryption
–
Maximum of 2TB storage via Google One
Google Drive’s Android and Google Workspace integration make it an ideal cloud storage platform for Google fans, but a generous 15GB free tier, and a host of desktop, mobile and Drive-supporting third-party apps, ensure it also has plenty of all-round appeal.
The service more than delivers on the cloud storage essentials, with versioning support, offline access, syncing, file sharing and more. But there’s much more here. Business users will love the Google , and integration, for instance, where you can create, edit and share cloud files with others, without ever downloading anything.
Whatever platform you choose, we found Google Drive to be intuitive and easy to use. The Android and iOS apps are a close match for the browser view, ensuring smooth operations even when you’re regularly switching devices. We’ve been a little disappointed by previous versions of the desktop apps, but the latest edition is just as easy to operate as the rest of the Drive family.
Drive doesn’t have end-to-end encryption, which means that, in theory, Google could see your files. And if you’re not a Google fan, tying yourself so tightly into the company’s ecosystem may not appeal. But for everyone else, it offers a slick and powerful free service, and plenty of benefits if you upgrade. The $99.99 upgrade to Google One doesn’t just get you 2TB of storage, but also includes 10% off Google Store purchases, access to Google experts, and even an Android and iOS VPN.
Read our full .
How we tested the best cloud storage providers?
When we test a cloud storage provider, we look at the upload and download speeds of file transfers but this is a minor component of the overall rating as there are scores of other factors that affect your download or upload speeds that cannot be easily mitigated (contention rate, time of day, server load etc). We also check to see if the storage provider can recover deleted files, as well as if they keep multiple versions of files in case users need to undo changes
The other thing you’ll probably want to consider is cost. While the capital expenditure for cloud storage is usually very low (or non-existent), the operational expenditure can add up when you factor in additional storage requirements and premium features. Be sure to check your cloud contract carefully to ensure you don’t receive an unexpectedly large bill.
Credentials around services and security standards are also key. Look for a cloud storage provider that can boast the certifications that promise an SLA you can rely on – and safeguards that protect your data. In addition, make sure your storage provider offers the scalability you need should you grow – and a flexible pricing model to accompany it.
Last but certainly not least is the level of support that a cloud storage service will provide to its customers, whether it’s 24×7 over the phone or web-based only. Our reviews include all this and more details including usability, and platform compatibility, and compare each cloud storage service to similar rivals, across key features and pricing, so you can make an informed decision based on as much data as possible when it comes to the time when you will choose the best cloud storage provider for you.
For more detailed coverage, read:
Best cloud storage FAQs
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage is a remote virtual space, usually in a data center, which you can access to save or retrieve files.
It’s important to know a cloud storage service can be trusted with your files, so most providers go to a lot of trouble to make sure they’re safe. They’ll upload and download files via a secure encrypted connection, for instance. Maximum security data centers ensure no unauthorized person gets access to their servers, and even if someone did break in, leading-edge encryption prevents an attacker viewing your data.
There are dozens of services which are powered by some form of cloud storage. You might see them described as online backup, cloud backup, online drives, file hosting and more, but essentially they’re still cloud storage with custom apps or web consoles to add some extra features.
You won’t have to look far to find your nearest cloud storage service, though, because there’s a very good chance you have access to one already. Facebook and Twitter provide free cloud storage when they allow users to store photos and videos on their servers, for instance, while even the most basic free Google account gets you 15GB of cloud storage space via the Google Drive app.
How to choose the best cloud storage service?
Finding your perfect cloud storage solution starts by thinking about your needs. What are you hoping the service will do?
If your goal is to protect all your data from harm, then look for a service with solid backup tools and the ability to access your files from anywhere.
If you’d like to share a group of files – photos, say – across multiple devices, then you’ll need quick and easy syncing abilities.
If you’re more interested in sharing individual files or folders with others, look for a platform which supports password-protected or time-limited links, anything that helps you stay more secure. Businesses will benefit from collaboration tools, too, allowing users to work on files together, add comments and more.
Pay attention to the figures. Most cloud storage keeps previous versions of your files for up to 30 days, for instance, but that’s not always the case. If your provider says it supports ‘versioning’, that’s good, but check the details, see how it really compares to the competition.
You’ll want to consider a provider’s cost and capacity, too, but be careful. Don’t simply opt for a high-capacity plan just because it seeks better value: think about whether you really need that much space. And when it comes to price, browse the small print, look out for hidden charges or fees which jump on renewal, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting.
What to consider when choosing cloud storage services
Given the number of cloud storage providers on the market today – from tech giants like Google to smaller, more niche players – choosing the solution that’s right for you isn’t easy. One of the first things you’ll probably want to consider is cost. While the capital expenditure for cloud storage is usually very low (or nonexistent), the operational expenditure can add up when you factor in additional storage requirements and premium features. Be sure to check your cloud contract carefully to ensure you don’t receive an unexpectedly large bill.
Credentials around service and security standards are also key. Look for a cloud storage provider that can boast the certifications that promise an SLA you can rely on – and safeguards that protect your data. In addition, make sure your storage provider offers the scalability you need should you grow – and a flexible pricing model to accompany it. Perhaps the best thing to do when choosing a cloud storage provider is simply to shop around. There’s bound to be a solution that suits your needs – but don’t simply go with the first cloud provider you find.
Free vs Paid cloud storage: what you need to know
If your backup budget is low (or non-existent) then opting for free cloud storage might appeal, but is it the right choice for you?
Capacities are often very low (NordLocker’s free plan has just 3GB), which is likely to rule out free plans for any heavy-duty tasks. Some free options may have other limits, or leave out important features from the paid plans. IceDrive’s 10GB plan looks generous, for instance, but you can only use 3GB bandwidth a day, and there’s no client-side encryption.
These may not be deal-breaking issues, at least if your needs are simple, and you can do better with a little work. Signing up with one provider doesn’t mean you can’t use another, for instance: set up IDrive for one task, Google and OneDrive for a couple of others, and suddenly you’ve 30GB to play with.
Free plans aren’t only useful for bargain-hunters, though. However much you’ve got to spend, the real advantage of a free plan is it gives you time to try out different platforms before you commit.
Cloud storage jargon buster
Baffled by cloud-storage techno-speak? We’ve got the key terms you need to know.
AES-256: one of the strongest encryption algorithms around, AES-256 is often used to protect cloud storage and ensure no-one else can access your data.
At-rest encryption: encrypts your data while stored on a device, protecting it from snoopers. See In-transit encryption.
Cloud: servers that are accessed over the internet, along with the software, databases, computing resources and services they offer.
Continuous data backup: a clever technology which automates backups by looking out for new and changed files, and uploading them as soon as they appear.
Data center: one or more physical facilities which house networked computers and the resources necessary to run, access and manage them: storage systems, routers, firewalls and more.
Egress: the transfer of data from a network to an external location, such as downloading a file from a cloud storage account. (See Ingress.)
End-to-end encryption: a method of communicating data which ensures no-one but the sender and receiver can read or modify it. In cloud storage terms, it means your files can’t be intercepted and accessed by anyone, even your provider.
Ingress: the transfer of data into a network, such as uploading a file to a cloud storage account. (See Egress.)
In-transit encryption: encrypts your data before transmission to another computer, and decrypts it at the destination. Even if an attacker can intercept your communications, they won’t be able to read your files. (See At-rest encryption.)
Private cloud: a cloud computing environment which offers services to a single business only. A business might use its own private cloud storage to ensure no other company gets to handle its data, for instance, improving security. (See Public cloud.)
Private encryption key: a method of encryption which means only you can access your encrypted files. This guarantees your security, but is also a little risky, because if you forget your password, the provider can’t help you recover it, and your data is effectively lost.
Public cloud: a network of computers which offers cloud services to the public via the internet. Google, Microsoft and Amazon are examples of public cloud providers. (See Private cloud.)
S3: A fast flexible cloud storage type invented by Amazon and used by major companies like Netflix, reddit, Ancestry and more.
Sync: the process of keeping a set of files up-to-date across two or more devices. Edit a file on one of your devices, for instance, and a cloud storage service which supports syncing will quickly upload the new version to all the others.
Two-factor authentication: a technology which requires you to enter an extra piece of information (beyond just a username and password) when logging into a web account: a pin sent by email or SMS, a fingerprint, a response to an authenticator app. It’s an extra login hassle, but also makes it much more difficult for anyone to hack your account. Sometimes called 2FA or two-step authentication.
Versioning: the ability to keep multiple versions of a file in your cloud storage area. Accidentally delete something important in a document last Tuesday, and even if you’ve updated the file several times, you may still be able to recover the previous version.
Zero-knowledge encryption: a guarantee that no-one else, not even your cloud provider, has the password necessary to protect your data. That’s great for security, but beware: if you forget your password, the provider can’t remind you, and your files will be locked away forever.
If you want to learn more about cloud storage
To learn more about cloud storage, we have plenty of resources covering and . We also have resources for free or lifetime deal offerings, , and the .
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Désiré has been musing and writing about technology during a career spanning four decades. He dabbled in and when DHTML and frames were in vogue and started narrating about the impact of technology on society just before the start of the Y2K hysteria at the turn of the last millennium.
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Best cloud storage in 2023 | Tom’s Guide
Best cloud storage in 2023
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
Choosing the best cloud storage service for your specific needs can be difficult, especially if you don’t know what to look for. That’s why this guide will explain exactly what cloud storage is and why you might want to store your files in the cloud in the first place.
Most of the top platforms in the cloud storage industry provide a range of free, personal, premium and business plans which gives you a great deal of options to choose from. By opting for a cloud storage and provider, you can save yourself a lot of hassle if your files happen to be lost or accidentally deleted.
While there are some great plans out there, we’ll be focusing on premium packages including the . Even if you’re not a business owner, premium plans provide individuals with loads of great features and tools including file syncing and improved security.
The best cloud storage deals, right now
The best cloud storage services today
An excellent all-around choice
Specifications
Storage capacity: Up to 10TB (up to 50TB for business plans)
Number of devices: Unlimited
Encryption: End-to-end
Reasons to buy
+
Compatible with almost any device or OS
+
Unlimited user and device plans available
+
Very easy to use
+
Affordably-priced
Reasons to avoid
–
Unlimited storage isn’t available
–
Slow download speeds
IDrive takes first in our list of the best cloud storage providers, and for good reason. It offers great value-for-money, provides highly secure cloud storage solutions, and has an option for every user.
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The basic free-forever plan only supports 5GB of storage, but this should be enough for you to test it. Personal plans that support one user and unlimited devices cost $59.62 a year ($79.50 on renewal) for 5TB or $74.62 a year ($99.50 on renewal) for 10TB of storage. IDrive is also — one of the most affordable high-capacity plans available, though you need to prove you’re using a competitor as part of the signup.
All plans can be used on various desktop and mobile operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. You can set up continuous data backup if required, and it’s even possible to create a copy of external hard drives and NAS (network-attached storage) devices.
We found that files can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, and file sharing is extremely easy. All plans come with the innovative IDrive Express feature, which enables you to back up files and data to a physical storage device, which is then mailed to your chosen address. This is available once per year with the Personal plans.
Read our full , and our .
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*All prices are based on undiscounted rates of the cheapest available annual plan. Monthly plans are only available via Business packags with 1.25TB or more, starting at $49.95 a month.
**Entry-level Team and Business plans shown: plans go up to 100TB and 100 users / 50TB and 50 users.
***IDrive is
An all-in-one solution powered by Google Workspace
Specifications
Storage capacity: Up to 2TB
Number of devices: Unlimited
Encryption: Encrypted transfer
Reasons to buy
+
15GB of free storage
+
Android, Chromebook, and Workspace integration
+
Fully featured cloud sync that’s simple to use
+
Very easy to work with
Reasons to avoid
–
The web interface can be a little complicated
–
No end-to-end encryption
–
Security could be tighter
Google’s cloud storage walks hand in hand with Android and Google Workspace. If these platforms are already a part of your workflow, Google Drive offers a feature-rich, affordable native backup-and-sync solution.
While not as barebones as some of the other options listed, we found Google Drive’s UI to be clean and intuitive. It is worth remembering, however, that it’s more than cloud storage. It comes with companion apps including , Docs, Sheets, and Slides—together known as Google Workspace—meaning you can create, edit, store, view, and synchronize files via this unified, web-based interface.
When you open a new account, Google offers you free storage of up to 15GB on Google Drive. This plan is yours to keep forever, and if you wish to upgrade to a higher storage plan down the road, you can do so. The paid plans, offered under the banner of , start at $1.99 a month for 100GB. From there, you can upgrade storage to a maximum of 30TB for $299.99 a month.
The web interface, while very attractive, isn’t the easiest to use. This problem is easily solved however by downloading the Google Drive desktop application for Windows and macOS. This file explorer-based drag-and-drop system is not dissimilar to Microsoft OneDrive, which lets you back up, store, modify, and delete files directly from your desktop.
Read our full , our , and our .
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A leader in cloud-based file sharing
Specifications
Storage capacity: Up to 5TB
Number of devices: Unlimited
Encryption: In-transit and at rest
Reasons to buy
+
Easy to use
+
Freedom to choose third-party applications
+
Free plan will suffice for most personal users
Reasons to avoid
–
No backup features
–
Expensive
–
Only allows for app integrations
Dropbox is a fantastic choice for personal cloud storage. Plans are affordable, the user interface is impressive, and it integrates well with many third-party platforms.
It is a leader in file sharing, with several features helping to make it easy to share large files with others, whether they use Dropbox or not. However, one limitation we found is that you can’t back up external or network drives — Dropbox only stores what you transfer to the Dropbox folder on your device. This isn’t a major issue, but differentiates it from competitors like IDrive.
Security is impressive without being exceptional, with all files are encrypted at rest and in transit, though there is no end-to-end encryption. Accounts can also be secured with two-factor authentication (2FA).
It has a free plan with 2GB of storage, as well as . Of these, the Plus Plan is $9.99 a month for 2TB of storage, and enables you to send files up to 2GB per transfer. The Family Plan has the same storage and transfer capabilities, but for six individual users, for $16.99 a month. Despite its limitations, we think you could do much worse than Dropbox for cloud storage.
Read our and our .
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Secure, well-priced and easy to use cloud storage
Specifications
Storage capacity: Up to 6TB
Number of devices: 5
Encryption: In-transit and at rest
Reasons to buy
+
Easy to use
+
End-to-end encryption
+
Extended file history
Reasons to avoid
–
Basic interface
–
Single-folder sync
–
Limited third-party apps integration
Sync is a simple, fast and secure cloud storage service that will appeal to those on a budget.
In fact, you can get 5GB of free cloud storage with the service but by inviting friends, creating new folders and completing other tasks, you can bump this up all the way to 27GB. If you do want to sign up for a paid subscription though, all of Sync’s plans are paid annually but there is a 30-day-money-back guarantee.
The service’s costs $8 per month and gets you 2TB of secure storage along with advanced sharing options. Sync’s increases the storage limit to 6TB and also includes custom branding along with advanced sharing features for $20 per month.
Unlike other cloud storage services, Sync as the name suggests syncs a single folder and the data it contains between your computers and the cloud. This limitation may be a deal breaker for some while others will appreciate the service’s simplicity. There’s also a Vault feature for files you want to store in the cloud that aren’t synced with your other devices.
In terms of security, Sync provides end-to-end encryption for all of your files both in rest and while in transit. As for native clients, the service offers desktop apps for Windows and Mac as well as mobile apps for iOS and Android though you can also use its web interface to transfer files. Sync may not have the same level of polish as Google Drive or Dropbox but it does the basics really well with plenty of online storage space for the price.
Read our full .
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A popular cloud backup platform with an excellent reputation
Specifications
Storage capacity: Up to 50TB
Number of devices: Unlimited
Encryption: End-to-end
Reasons to buy
+
Streamlined platform with minimal system impact
+
Attractive, intuitive user interface
+
Smart file search across hybrid storage
Reasons to avoid
–
No live backup options
–
Pricier than competitors
–
Clunky and frustrating mobile apps
Zoolz offers high-quality cloud storage backed by the (AWS) ecosystem. It boasts excellent security, including full 256-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) encryption, and compliance with various legislative frameworks including HIPPA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and (the General Data Protection Regulation).
A fully-functional free trial is available with 50GB, enabling you to try the service before committing. from $14.99 a month for 1TB of storage to $674.99 a month for 50TB. Significant discounts are available with annual payments.
All business plans support unlimited users, unlimited server backups, and unlimited external drive connections. Users also have access to excellent 24/7 live support and a comprehensive help center.
The Zoolz desktop interface is neat and easy to navigate, and there are also mobile apps available for managing files on the go. Unfortunately, we found these are clunky and frustrating to use, while upload and download speeds can be slow, which could be an issue if frequently working with larger files.
Read our full , and our .
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Built-in cloud storage for Windows
Specifications
Storage capacity: Up to 6TB
Number of devices: 30
Encryption: AES 256-bit
Reasons to buy
+
Free with Microsoft 365
+
Integration with Microsoft and Windows
+
Comprehensive support
Reasons to avoid
–
Lacks advanced features
–
No zero-knowledge encryption
–
Quite pricey
Microsoft OneDrive is the ultimate cloud storage solution for Windows 10/11 and Microsoft 365 users, and is also available for users of macOS, Android, and iOS. It’s also available for Xbox, making it possible to store precious game save files safely in the cloud.
The platform balances high-capacity storage with functional user interfaces, powerful integrations with the entire Microsoft 365 suite, and a robust security framework. Once you’re set up, it will perform as described with no further effort or stress on your part.
We found the service to be very well integrated into Windows. In essence, it enables you take away any file or folder on your desktop and access it on a variety of other devices. It also offers the ability to share files and folders with users who don’t have OneDrive.
You can also edit files directly on the cloud, without the need to download them every time. From Outlook to AutoCAD, OneDrive is compatible with a variety of different other services, both internal and third-party. Security-wise, it offers the Personal Vault feature, which lets you lock away essential files safely via 2FA and Bitlocker encryption.
If you’re a Microsoft 365 subscriber, you have up to 1TB free via OneDrive. Even if you aren’t, you can test it with a forever-free capacity of 5GB. You can always expand storage later via its , with 100GB for just $1.99 a month.
Read our full , our , and our .
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Secure storage with a lifetime subscription
Specifications
Storage capacity: Up to 2TB
Number of devices: Unspecified
Encryption: In transit and at rest
Reasons to buy
+
Powerful media sharing and playback tools
+
Impressive lifetime license available
+
10GB free storage
Reasons to avoid
–
Pricing options are very confusing
–
No document editor or collaboration options
–
Limited support
pCloud is one of the only cloud storage providers offering a , providing you with 500GB for a one-time payment of $175, or 2TB for $350. Alternatively, are available for $47.88 and $95.88 respectively.
Monthly payment options are also available, and there’s a fully-functional free plan with 10GB. You can also choose a , which supports up to four users. All plans come with advanced collaboration and file-sharing features, and you can even back up files from a series of third-party platforms.
Additionally, we were impressed to find that all files are protected by TLS/SSL (Transport Layer Security/Secure Sockets Layer) security, with 256-bit AES encryption. Powerful Android and iOS apps are available for mobile management, and there are tools to help you set up automatic social media uploads should you require this.
Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, and Mac operating systems are supported, and there are also browser extensions for Opera, Chrome, and Firefox. On the flipside, it lacks competitors’ collaboration tools, an in-built document editor, and a smoother interface.
Read our full .
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What is the best cloud storage service?
IDrive is , offering great value-for-money across a range of highly-secure, feature-packed plans. It’s also our top pick for the , the , and the provider.
Google Drive provides leading integrations with Google Workspace as well as slick mobile and desktop apps, while Dropbox continues to be one of the best thanks to ease-of-use and third-party app integrations.
Microsoft OneDrive provides integration with Microsoft 365, as well as premium plans for individuals, families, and businesses. Zoolz’ high-quality cloud storage boasts excellent security, a great free trial, and 24/7 support. Finally, pCloud competes with industry giants via a lifetime subscription across family and business plans, secure file-sharing, and widespread app support across platforms.
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*IDrive is
Best cloud storage benefits
Cloud storage FAQs
Want to learn more about cloud storage? We’ve covered all levels of questions in our frequently-asked questions below. Knowledge is power, and having as much information as possible before you sign up to the best cloud storage services will ensure you make the right choice for your needs.
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage stores data on a physical drive, and makes it accessible online for users via software from any internet-connected device, whenever and wherever a user wants to access them: hence the term cloud. Some users utilize multiple cloud services in what is called a .
Self-hosted cloud storage works by using on-premises (on-prem) infrastructure to provide storage, rather than managed, remotely-based servers. You need to manage these types of services yourself.
Storage as a service (StaaS) uses externally managed, third-party infrastructure and data centers, and offers large, affordable amounts of . Designed for collaboration, they can also be described as storage and syncing platforms.
combines cloud and local storage (or ) together to give you the benefits of both types. This is aimed more at businesses than individuals.
Cloud sync technology encompasses link sharing and file versioning, and is offered by many StaaS providers, allowing larger businesses to undertake inter-colleague collaboration, file sharing, and much more.
How much does the best cloud storage cost?
Unlike most tech and software markets, cloud storage providers often offer excellent free plans as well as paid plans. Free plans are ideal for those seeking relatively small amounts of storage, but feature storage capacity limitations, and don’t include the same high level of tools and features as paid plans.
Paid plans are available in monthly, annual, and even lifetime models, ranging from around $50 a year (this price depends entirely on factors including storage levels and additional features). Monthly plans can be as low as a few dollars a month, and in general pricing depends entirely on what plan you want, what tools and security coverage you seek, and the encryption on offer.
How secure is cloud storage?
When we compare , or even , security is key. Cloud storage may not theoretically be as secure as local, but the best cloud storage uses cutting-edge security and encryption. So , , and how does it protect your data?
When it comes to enterprises, is crucial, particularly in data and privacy-sensitive sectors, and so investing in secure cloud storage that offers state-of-the-art policies is non-negotiable. End-to-end encryption and zero-knowledge architecture mean services are almost hack-proof, and that not even a provider’s staff can access your data.
In-transit and at-rest encryption mean that even in the unlikely event of a cybercriminal intercepting data, it would be indecipherable. The very best providers not only protect data, but infrastructure housing it. StaaS data centers have 24/7 security guards, biometric authorization for entry, and frequent security auditing.
Data center locations are also key for most businesses, as different countries have different data privacy laws. You’ll need to make sure data is stored in a nation that complies with your data privacy obligations.
The best cloud storage for business: what you need to know
Identifying the best means looking for highly stable, secure systems that protect data at all times. End-to-end encryption and zero-knowledge architecture are particularly important, but also look for StaaS products, as they offer advanced cloud sync and collaborative features for seamless digital workflows, increased employee cooperation and productivity.
Powerful administrative features provided, such as access management, system auditing, 2FA, and roles-based permissions, are also worth keeping an eye out for, particularly for medium- and large-sized organizations.
What you need to know about free cloud storage
If you’ve got less complex storage requirements, or have a tight budget, most providers offer free plans. While less feature-rich, with smaller storage allowances and other limitations, free cloud storage can be more than sufficient for personal needs. You can store important documents and images, but should you want more capacity, you’ll have pay to upgrade. However, the advantage is that you can try out different platforms for free before you do.
How we review the best cloud storage
When we review cloud storage providers, we test upload and download times for files, as these speeds are integral to performance and usage. We also look at how each provider’s security stacks up, how responsive customer service teams are when there’s a problem, at pricing, and at any additional features offered.
Our comprehensive reviews also make a point of comparing each cloud storage service to competitors, across key features and pricing, so you can benefit from as much information as possible before you make your choice.
Take a look at some of our other reviews of leading platforms, including:
Ready to purchase cloud storage? Make sure you check out our to get cloud storage space for less.
Next steps with cloud storage
Make sure to follow a checklist when looking for a provider, and consider the most important factors when selecting an service, as well as these tips for . If you’re unsure about the differences between ,it’s worth doing your research first.
If you’re buying cloud storage on behalf of a small company, take a look at the , but also learn the top reasons you should use ; find out why small businesses should use ; and understand why a benefits businesses.
Are you an iPhone user of iCloud, and have no space left in your storage? .
Instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.
Anthony Spadafora is the security and networking editor at Tom’s Guide where he covers everything from data breaches and ransomware gangs to password managers and the best way to cover your whole home or business with Wi-Fi. Before joining the team, he wrote for ITProPortal while living in Korea and later for TechRadar Pro after moving back to the US. Based in Houston, Texas, when he’s not writing Anthony can be found tinkering with PCs and game consoles, managing cables and upgrading his smart home.
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Source: https://www.tomsguide.com/buying-guide/best-cloud-storage
The Best Cloud Storage Services of 2023 – How-To Geek
The Best Cloud Storage Services of 2023
Update, 05/15/2023: We’ve reviewed our recommendations and are confident these are still the best cloud storage services available.
What to Look For With Cloud Storage in 2023
In little more than 10 years, cloud storage has gone from something only used by businesses and the tech-savvy to something that millions of us rely on every day. As such, the number of available cloud storage services has increased exponentially while their prices have gone down.
Even so, finding the best value-for-money service is important. That isn’t always about how much space you get, but that is often where we start when looking at storage plans. Unfortunately, it is difficult to know exactly how much storage space you might need until you actually start storing all of your files.
Most providers have a to get you started, but it is still worth looking at how much the premium plans will cost if you ever need to upgrade. The average market price for 2 terabytes of cloud storage is around ten dollars a month, which is more than enough storage for almost everyone.
Almost all cloud storage services offer . This means that your files are encrypted during transfer as well as when they are in the cloud storage. Anyone intercepting them will only see scrambled data unless they have the encryption key.
In standard end-to-end storage, it is usually only you and the storage provider who has the key. takes this a step further by taking the encryption key away from the provider so that only you can read your files. If you want the best possible data security, zero-knowledge storage is the way to go.
Microsoft, Apple, and Google all have their own cloud storage services, both free and premium. Only Google Drive has made it onto our list, mainly because it is less OS-dependent than the other two. However, choosing OneDrive for your cloud storage is a viable option if you use Windows and work in Microsoft Office. Equally, upgrading to a premium plan with iCloud is a great option if you use one or more Apple devices.
Both and , two other huge names in cloud storage, are also missing from our list of the best. Both services are very good but are geared more toward businesses rather than individual users—as such, they’re worth considering if you need cloud storage for a company rather than for yourself.
All of our picks are, of course, solid cloud storage services. But each also offers something unique that makes it worth the recommendation.
Best Cloud Storage Service Overall:
Pros
Cons
is unique because it offers a mix of cloud storage and , usually sold as separate services. It manages to do this at a lower price than many stand-alone cloud storage services without compromising too much on features.
The free plan offers 10GB of basic cloud storage space for those who want to try out the service. Beyond that, the premium plans are some of the cheapest for their capacity. The lowest-priced plan is IDrive Personal, which gives you a huge 5TB for less than $5/month for the first year. The only downside is that there isn’t the option to pay monthly, so you need to foot the annual bill upfront.
File storage can be easily managed through the browser interface or in the . When you install the desktop app, it creates a single folder called Sync. Everything you place in this folder is backed up to the cloud storage and is accessible from your other devices, making it easy to access important files from anywhere.
One of the most interesting features of IDrive is how it handles versioning. Most cloud storage will retain versions of your files for a set period, so you can recover or revert changes to files. IDrive does things differently, keeping up to 30 previous versions of edited files for an unlimited time. Those 30 previous file versions also don’t count towards your storage quota, so you don’t need to worry about filling up your space with multiple versions of the same file.
Your cloud-stored files and backed-up data are protected by end-to-end, . By default, the service isn’t zero-knowledge, but you can create a private key during setup. Doing this makes it zero-knowledge, but you sacrifice the option to easily share files. If you don’t think you will need to share files, this won’t be a problem.
Aside from the general file storage features, IDrive also gives you the tools to create and save a backup or a clone of your computer’s hard disk. If your drive fails, a clone allows you to quickly restore everything, including the operating system, onto a new drive.
It could be argued that IDrive is more about backups than file storage, but we think the split between the two services is pretty even. It does lack the sharing and collaboration tools that most pure cloud storage services give you, but for data backup and storage, IDrive is brilliant.
Best Cloud Storage Service Overall
Best Cloud Storage Service for Collaboration:
Pros
Cons
makes it onto this list over other well-known cloud storage providers for several reasons, starting with just how many people already have a Google account. The 15GB of free storage and excellent collaboration tools, especially for those who also use Google Workspace, are compelling arguments.
If 15GB of free storage isn’t enough, there are several premium plans to upgrade to. They start with Basic, which gives you 100GB for just $2 a month and goes up to 30TB for $150 a month. In the middle, you have the 2TB plan, and while this isn’t the best value at $8.33/month, it is comparable to similar storage plans from other providers.
One of the best features of Google Drive is the number of available . There are dozens of completely free tools that you can add, from file organization tools to collaboration and productivity aids.
If the people you collaborate with use tools such as Docs and Sheets, Google Drive becomes even more useful. You can easily share a document with someone, grant them editing permissions, and even work on the same document at the same time as someone else.
As you might expect, it also works well with all other Google products. If you have an Android phone, Drive is completely integrated and can be easily used to store backups of your phone system and data. There are also apps available for , , , and , all of which are well-designed and easy to use.
Where Google Drive fails slightly is in security and privacy. Although it features end-to-end encryption, there isn’t zero-knowledge encryption. That means, at least from a technical standpoint, Google can access your data whenever it wants. And as Google doesn’t have the very best reputation for , you’ll want to keep this in mind when using Drive.
Best Cloud Storage Service for Collaboration
A great cloud storage solution for anyone who needs collaboration and sharing tools, but who doesn’t need zero-knowledge encryption.
Best Cloud Storage Service for Security:
Pros
Cons
is the newest cloud storage service on this list, having only been around since 2019. In a market dominated by very big and well-established names, it is easy to overlook the new players. That would be a mistake, as this innovative UK-based company has a brilliant cloud storage offering.
To start, Icedrive offers a free plan for personal use. This free plan gives you a respectable 10GB of cloud storage, with a 3GB daily bandwidth limit. You don’t get the same client-side encryption as the premium plans have, but this free service is good for less sensitive data. The three premium storage plans start at just $1.67 a month for 150GB, with the biggest 5TB plan running to $15/month.
One of the best features of Icedrive is how it gives you access to your stored files. As well as the easy-to-use apps for and and the web application, it also offers some rather clever Windows desktop software.
This software lets you access your cloud-stored files as if they were in a drive mounted on your computer, so your cloud storage looks and behaves like all the other storage. Moving files to and from this virtual drive is as quick and smooth as moving files from one folder to another on your PC.
Another unique selling point of Icedrive is how it encrypts your files. Rather than using the standard and widely-used AES encryption algorithm, it uses something called Twofish. Twofish is considered by many security experts to be as or , and because it is not as widely used, is less likely to be targeted by hackers.
In addition, the encryption is zero-knowledge and end-to-end, so the encryption keys that are generated are only available to you—not even Icedrive can access them.
Where Icedrive’s cloud storage is slightly lacking is in its sharing and collaboration features. There are a few, such as the ability to password-protect sharing links and set an expiration date. You can also create upload-only links to folders if you don’t want someone to have full control over the contents. But one glaring omission is the lack of permissions for other users. That means you can’t allow collaborators to edit files or folders in your storage.
However, if sharing and collaboration aren’t important to you, and you want secure and hassle-free cloud storage, Icedrive is a perfect choice.
Best Cloud Storage Service for Security
A great value cloud storage service that offers impressive security and an extremely easy-to-use desktop sync app.
Best Cloud Storage Service for Large Files:
Pros
Cons
may not be as well known as some of the other names in cloud storage, but it has become increasingly popular over the last few years. This is due to its extremely attractive mix of great value, strong security, and impressive suite of features. As a pure cloud storage service, Sync is top-tier.
As with every cloud storage service on this list, Sync offers a free plan for anyone who needs basic storage or wants to try out the service. For free, you get 5GB of storage space, 30 days of file versioning and recovery, and some limited sharing options, such as creating a few password-protected links. The premium solo plans start at $8/month for 2TB of storage and go up to $20/month for 6TB.
Sync has data security covered thanks to its use of , end-to-end encryption. The strong security features continue over into the sharing options. You can create unlimited password-protected links, set download limits on shared files, and set expiration dates for shared links.
Along with the secure sharing features already mentioned, you can create centralized folders and set access permission by the user or folder. If a device that has access to the storage is lost or stolen, you can remotely lock out connected devices. It also lets you remotely delete files that you have shared.
Sync does file syncing very well, with easy-to-use apps for and and a well-designed web interface. Most cloud storage works by storing files on your computer and in the cloud. Sync is no different, but if physical storage space on your computer is a concern, you can choose folders that only sync to certain devices. And unlike several other cloud storage services, there are no limits on file size and data transfer, making it a great choice if you regularly need to store large files.
Our testing involved uploading the same 1GB folder to all cloud storage services on this list. While Icedrive wasn’t the fastest at transferring data, it certainly wasn’t prohibitively slow. If you want a secure, useable, and good-value cloud storage service that doesn’t try to be anything else, Sync ticks all the boxes.
Best Cloud Storage Service for Large Files
A great all-around cloud storage service which combines great value for money with an impressive list of sharing, collaboration, and syncing features.
Best Free Cloud Storage Service:
Pros
Cons
makes the list for several reasons, but the main selling point is that it offers the largest amount of free storage space of any current cloud storage service. MEGA’s free plan offers 20GB of storage before you need to upgrade, double the amount many services on this list give you.
MEGA also allows you to add more free storage space by completing certain actions such as installing the mobile app for or or inviting friends to sign up. This bonus storage is only valid for a year, but if you have filled it up for the entire year, upgrading to a premium plan was in the cards.
On that note, there are several premium plans to choose from. For individuals, these start at $5 a month for 400GB and go up to a huge 16TB for under $30 a month. You do have monthly data transfer limits on all of the premium plans, but they are fairly generous and equal to the storage size.
MEGA is another cloud storage service that uses end-to-end, zero-knowledge encryption. As long as you are careful with your account password, this is about as secure as consumer cloud storage can get. For added security, you can also enable (2FA) and save a recovery key that can be used to regain access if you forget your account password.
One unique feature of MEGA is the secure chat client it provides. You can create a chat link in either the desktop, mobile, or web app. Only someone with that link can join, and all of the chat content is secure and encrypted, so it is completely private.
There is also a good selection of sharing options. Shared links are encrypted, and encryption keys can be sent separately for added security. You can also set passwords and expiration dates on links, or revoke access by changing the permissions after the link is sent.
MEGA does have a slightly troubled past, having been created by . However, he left the company in 2015 and no longer has any dealings with it. There are also some privacy concerns with the stating that third parties can use your data. This is not really different from the sort of data companies like or collect and use, but it is worth keeping in mind.
MEGA offers a very secure, fast, and good value service, and if you are looking for a large chunk of free cloud storage, it can’t be beat.
Best Free Cloud Storage Service
Impressive security, zero-knowledge encryption combined with a huge free storage plan and great collaboration and sharing options.
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Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/808192/best-cloud-storage-service/
The 10 best cloud storage apps in 2023 | Zapier
Source: https://zapier.com/blog/best-cloud-storage-apps/
Sync.com cloud storage review | Tom’s Guide
Sync.com cloud storage review
Tom’s Guide Verdict
Sync may lack some of the features of the competition, but it is a secure, easy-to-use cloud storage service that will appeal to those on a budget.
Pros
Cons
is a cloud storage provider that puts a particular emphasis on security, promising that your data in the cloud will always be 100% safe and secure with end-to-end encryption.
Many cloud storage companies make similar promises these days, so how does Sync stack up against the providers in the business? That’s what we set out to discover in this Sync review, as we take a closer look at its pricing, features, support, and approach to security.
Sync has a for individuals and teams. For individuals, there is a free plan that offers 5GB and a limit of 5GB of data that can be shared per month.
If you need even more storage space, then you’re looking at what Sync calls its Solo plans for individuals. Prices for those start at $8 a month (billed annually) for the Solo Basic plan – which offers 2TB and unlimited file-sharing transfers – and run up to $20 a month (billed annually) or $24 a month (billed monthly) for the Solo Professional with 6TB.
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Team plans start at $5 per user a month for the Teams Standard plan, which offers 1TB per user and can be used by up to 100 users. At the other end of the scale is the Teams Unlimited plan, at $15 per user a month (annually) or $18 per user a month when paid monthly, with unlimited storage, custom branding, and capacity for 1,000 users.
Sync’s individual and team plans share almost all the same features, though team plans include an additional selection of administrative tools. All the other features are the same regardless of which plan you’re on: only storage and user limits, and the number of days of file history, set the plans apart.
Sync also offers enterprise pricing: to obtain details about the prices you’ll need to contact their sales department. There are no full-featured free trial plans, only the basic free plan, but all paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Sync’s core features include the ability to securely share your files and folders with anyone, real-time data backup and sync, and the ability to access your data from any device that has a web browser. Apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android are also available.
Your data is protected by Sync in a number of different ways. File history means you can review and restore previous versions of files, even if they’re deleted. In fact, Sync offers some of the longest file history limits we’ve seen, with 30 days for free accounts and up to a year for the high-end plans. You can also use account rewind to reset your account to a previous moment in time if you ever fall victim to ransomware.
Advanced sharing controls mean you can set expiry dates and download limits on files. Or, you can set certain files to be preview-only, so they can’t be downloaded. You can protect your sharing links with passwords, and you can remotely delete files when revoking access to shares.
Both individual and team plans provide activity logs, but team plans also come with administrator accounts that can manage all users on the account, including password management and the ability to log in as specific users.
More recently, the company has set up the Sync CloudFiles feature for its desktop app, which (currently running in beta mode) allows users to set files and folders to be cloud-only, and freeing up hard drive space on desktops or laptops. The feature is only available on the company’s Pro plans (all plans bar the free package).
Sync is very simple to use. When you install it on your computer, it will create a Sync folder, into which you can drag and drop folders and files, and they’ll automatically be uploaded to your Sync account in the cloud.
Only data added to the specific Sync folder is uploaded to your account: you cannot choose other folders as you can with some cloud storage providers. That limitation aside, we found that data uploaded to our account very quickly.
The desktop app itself doesn’t do much other than give you a list of the most recent activity, so you’ll need to use the web app for most tasks – such as sharing, viewing event and file history, and managing users.
You can also choose to move data to your Vault, a folder in the cloud that doesn’t get synced with other devices – which can be handy if you want to free up space on devices while still maintaining an archive of the content. Sync’s control panel doesn’t have as much functionality as many similar services, but what it does have is fairly easy to use.
Sync offers form and phone support, though only business users on the Teams Professional plan can get phone support.
For direct help, you can fill in a form, accessible via the contact page on the company’s website or from within your account control panel; or call their support line to get technical help on demand.
If you’re the type who likes to find answers for themselves, the searchable help center has articles covering various topics.
Sync is serious about maintaining the privacy of its customers’ data, and the primary way it ensures that is by using end-to-end encryption so that only you can access your data. Your data might be stored on Sync’s servers, but not even Sync itself can read or access it.
Your data is also backed up and replicated across multiple secure data center locations, so you never have to worry about data loss. And with the security controls built into your account, you’ll be able to set permissions, passwords, and access expiry dates, as well as enable two-factor authentication.
One downside to Sync’s approach to security, however, is that there are fewer third-party app integrations than other providers offer.
Alternatives to Sync.com
The cloud storage space is a very busy one, and some alternatives to Sync you might want to consider include and .
Tresorit is another solution that offers end-to-end encryption and a range of individual and business plans, including a free plan with 3GB. Individual plans range in price from $10.42 a month for 500GB of storage to $24 a month for 2.5TB. Business plans go from $14.50 per user a month for 1TB to $24 per user a month for unlimited storage.
Another provider with individual and business plans, including a free plan, is Box. Its free plan comes with 10GB, while the individual Pro plan is $10 a month for 100GB. plans go from $5 a month for 100GB up to $35 a month for unlimited storage.
Sync is an easy-to-use cloud storage solution with good pricing for large amounts of storage. What Sync offers is a bit basic compared with some of the competition, but that simplicity may actually appeal to those who don’t need an over-abundance of features.
We were impressed by many aspects of Sync’s service, including the extended file history and its approach to security. That extra security does limit the third-party app integrations on offer, but if you don’t need those integrations and just want a secure, well-priced, easy-to-use cloud storage service, then Sync is a great choice.
John is a freelance writer and web developer who has been working digitally for about 30 years. His experience is in journalism, print design and web development and he has worked in Australia and the UK. His work has been published in Future publications such as TechRadar, Tom’s Guide, and ITProPortal.
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Source: https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/synccom-review
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Cloud storage vs cloud backup vs cloud sync | Tom’s Guide
This article discusses the differences between cloud storage, cloud backup, and cloud synchronization. Each of these operations utilizes the cloud, which comprises physical servers owned by a cloud computing provider for remote data storage.
Cloud storage is a service offered by providers like Microsoft OneDrive and Apple iCloud, which allow users to store files on the cloud and access them remotely. Some providers cater to business clients, offering features like integration with collaboration platforms such as Microsoft Teams, while others target individual users.
Cloud backup, on the other hand, is a dedicated service provided by companies like IDrive and Carbonite Safe. These services continuously back up all files on a device to the cloud, ensuring data protection and easy restoration in case of accidents or cyber attacks like ransomware.
Cloud synchronization is the process of updating cloud storage records to match changes made on a physical device. For example, Dropbox requires a utility to be installed on a device for cloud synchronization, while iCloud’s synchronization is built into Mac applications.
When comparing performance, cloud backup services with versioning and file history are ideal for protecting critical data and workflow, making them suitable for businesses. On the other hand, users who only need to protect personal data, like music and photos, might find services like iCloud sufficient.
Support provided by cloud computing providers varies based on the pricing tiers. Some offer phone support for business users, while others rely on chat or email support. iCloud’s support options are relatively limited compared to other providers.
Regarding pricing, many cloud computing services offer free plans with limited storage. As the amount of data storage increases, the pricing of plans also goes up. Some providers, like Google Workspace and Microsoft, offer additional applications and better support with higher-tier plans.
In conclusion, cloud storage, cloud backup, and cloud synchronization are not mutually exclusive; many providers offer some combination of these services. Users should choose the service that best fits their needs, with business users possibly considering complete productivity and communication suites offered by providers like Google Workspace or Microsoft OneDrive, while individual users might find iCloud or dedicated backup services suitable.
Source: https://www.tomsguide.com/features/cloud-storage-vs-cloud-backup-vs-cloud-sync-whats-the-difference
