The Best Cloud Storage and File-Sharing Services for 2023

Collaborating on documents used to be a cumbersome task, with multiple file copies and confusing filenames. Thanks to online file storage and syncing services, those problems are now a thing of the past. These services provide seamless access to all your digital assets, such as Word docs, PDFs, spreadsheets, and photos, regardless of your location. They also add a layer of safety and security by creating backups of your files in the cloud, ensuring accessibility even if your laptop is lost. If you don’t have an online storage and syncing service yet, it’s worth considering one based on your file types, security needs, collaboration requirements, and device compatibility.

Microsoft OneDrive is an excellent option for anyone, offering storage and syncing across major devices with a user-friendly interface and reliable performance. It integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365 apps, making it a natural choice for Windows users. Free users get 5GB of storage, while paid plans offer more space.

IDrive stands out for its low-cost backup and syncing capabilities. It provides ample storage per dollar and allows unlimited installations on devices. Notably, it offers features like file archiving and complete disk image creation, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize data protection.

Google Drive is ideal for Google Workspace users and integrates well with Google Docs, Sheets, and other online apps. It offers 15GB of free storage, making it a generous option for individuals. With strong file-sharing capabilities and widespread compatibility with third-party apps, Google Drive is a popular choice.

SpiderOak One Backup is a secure storage service focused on privacy. It operates on a no-knowledge policy, offers unlimited device backups, and supports file sharing and folder syncing. Although it charges slightly more for online storage, it caters to users who prioritize security and privacy.

Sync is a simple and straightforward service, suitable for those who prefer ease of use over complex features. With competitive pricing and compatibility across multiple platforms, it provides reliable storage and syncing options. The free version offers 5GB of storage, making it comparable to other major services.

Apple iCloud Drive is an essential service for Mac and iPhone users, offering seamless backup and syncing for photos, documents, and settings. While it may lack extensive customization options, it provides a hassle-free experience for those who want effortless data management.

Box (Personal) offers 10GB of free storage and excels in business integrations. Its flexible web app supports various file types and integrates with desktop software. While primarily tailored for business use, it can also be used for personal files.

Dropbox is a well-established player in the storage and syncing space, known for its reliability and integration with third-party services. Although it may not offer the best price per terabyte, it appeals to long-time users who value stability and a wide range of integration options.

Cloud storage services have different specialties, with some focusing on syncing, others on backups, and a few offering comprehensive solutions. They provide convenient access to files through apps or web browsers, encrypt data during transmission and storage, and only upload changes rather than entire files, optimizing bandwidth usage. Free accounts often have limitations, but they allow you to test the service before committing to a paid plan. Paid options offer more storage, enhanced support, advanced features, and better collaboration tools.

Cloud storage services have become an integral part of modern file management, offering convenience, security, and accessibility. They continue to evolve, integrating with various apps and services to enhance the user experience. When choosing a cloud storage provider, consider factors such as storage capacity, ease of use, stability, and pricing. The best services provide a seamless and reliable experience, ensuring that your files are safe and easily accessible whenever you need them.

Source: https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-cloud-storage-and-file-sharing-services

Cloud Storage Pricing and Plans

Cloud storage services have become increasingly popular as more individuals and businesses rely on digital solutions for storing and accessing their data. With the rise of cloud computing, providers offer various pricing plans to cater to different needs and budgets. In this summary, we will explore the topic of cloud storage pricing and plans, focusing on the key factors that influence costs and the different options available to users.

One of the primary factors that affect cloud storage pricing is the amount of storage space required. Most providers offer tiered plans, where users can choose the amount of storage they need. Plans typically range from a few gigabytes to multiple terabytes, allowing users to select a plan that aligns with their specific requirements. The cost tends to increase as the storage capacity increases, but the rate varies among different providers.

Another aspect that influences pricing is the level of redundancy and data protection offered by the provider. Redundancy refers to the duplication of data across multiple servers or data centers, ensuring that data remains accessible even in the event of hardware failures or disasters. Providers that offer higher levels of redundancy often charge a premium for their services. Additionally, some providers may include advanced security features, such as encryption and access controls, which can impact the pricing of their plans.

The pricing models used by cloud storage providers also vary. Some providers offer fixed monthly or annual subscription plans, where users pay a set fee for a specific amount of storage. This model is suitable for individuals or businesses with predictable storage needs. Other providers adopt a pay-as-you-go model, where users are charged based on the amount of storage they actually consume. This flexibility is beneficial for users who experience fluctuating storage requirements.

Furthermore, certain providers offer additional features and services that can impact pricing. For example, some providers integrate their storage services with other cloud-based applications, such as productivity suites or collaboration tools. These bundled offerings may come at a higher price but provide added convenience and integration benefits for users. Providers may also offer different levels of customer support, with premium support options commanding higher fees.

It is worth noting that competition among cloud storage providers has increased over the years, leading to price reductions and promotional offers. Users can take advantage of this competitive landscape by comparing the pricing and plans of different providers to find the best fit for their needs. Several online platforms and websites offer comparisons and reviews of cloud storage services, enabling users to make informed decisions.

In conclusion, cloud storage pricing and plans are influenced by factors such as storage capacity, data redundancy, security features, and additional services offered by providers. Users have the option to choose from various pricing models, including fixed plans or pay-as-you-go options. Considering the competitive nature of the market, users can explore different providers to find the most cost-effective solution that meets their storage requirements.

Source: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/onedrive/compare-onedrive-plans?activetab=tab%3aprimaryr1

How much does cloud storage cost?

Cloud storage offers a convenient and versatile solution for expanding your storage capacity. It allows you to access your data from anywhere with an Internet connection, making it a popular choice for personal users and businesses alike. However, determining whether you’re getting a good deal can be challenging, especially when comparing it to other storage options.

Free cloud storage options are available, but they often come with limitations. Upload and download speeds may be slower, making it difficult to handle large files. Additionally, you may need to consider the trade-off of sharing your personal data in exchange for free storage. While the data collected by providers is usually anonymous, some individuals may prefer not to share such information. The amount of free storage offered by cloud providers varies, typically ranging from 5GB to 20GB. Terabox provides the largest amount of free storage at 1TB, but it has file size and media quality restrictions as well as advertisements. Popular providers like OneDrive, iCloud Drive, and Google Drive offer between 5GB and 15GB of free storage depending on the platform.

When it comes to paid cloud storage, the cost per gigabyte can vary. For a relatively small storage space like 200GB, the average cost per gigabyte ranges from 1.50 to 2.00 cents or 1.25 to 2.00 pence. This translates to around $3 or £3 per month. It’s worth noting that pricing may differ across markets due to factors like currency fluctuations. For example, the 100GB OneDrive plan costs $1.99 in the US but slightly more in the UK.

If you require more storage, such as 2TB, the cost per gigabyte decreases significantly. You can expect to find a 2TB storage plan for approximately $7 to $10 or £7 to £10 per month, which is less than 0.5 cents or 0.5 pence per gigabyte.

Several factors influence cloud storage pricing. Companies consider various aspects when setting their prices, including customer loyalty and additional features or services. For example, Apple may encourage customers to stay with iCloud Drive by integrating it seamlessly with their Apple devices. Some providers offer more than just storage, such as cashback incentives, VPN-like protection, or support for smart home systems.

When comparing cloud storage to other solutions, it’s important to note that most cloud storage is subscription-based. While there are discounts for annual payments or lifetime access options, regular payments are generally required. However, cloud storage providers handle backups and ensure data redundancy, minimizing the risk of data loss. If you prefer to have full control over your data, at-home storage solutions like external hard drives can be more cost-effective. A 1TB external hard drive can be purchased for around $70 or £60, providing a cheaper price per gigabyte compared to cloud storage. Nevertheless, many users value the additional services and convenience offered by cloud storage.

In conclusion, cloud storage provides a flexible and accessible solution for expanding your storage capacity. The cost of cloud storage varies depending on the amount of storage needed and the specific provider. While free options are available, they often come with limitations and potential privacy concerns. Paid cloud storage plans range from a few dollars or pounds per month for smaller capacities to around $7 to $10 or £7 to £10 per month for larger capacities. Consider your storage requirements, budget, and the additional services offered by cloud storage providers when making a decision.

Source: https://www.techradar.com/features/how-much-does-cloud-storage-cost

How much cloud storage do I need: What are the options?

Cloud storage is a popular and effective way to store and access digital files. It provides the ability to easily share files, back up data, and access files across multiple devices. However, determining how much cloud storage you need and understanding the available options can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will help you determine the right amount of storage for your needs and explore different options.

When it comes to choosing the appropriate amount of cloud storage, it’s important to consider your specific requirements in order to save money. Simply looking at the amount of hard drive space you’ve used on your computer may not be sufficient. You should think about what types of files you want to store and how your storage needs may grow in the future. It’s also essential to establish a budget for cloud storage.

To start, think about the files you plan to store. Do you want to upload all your files from all your devices, or are you only interested in uploading specific files like photos or design files? Calculating the amount of data you currently have that needs to be moved to the cloud is a good starting point. Additionally, consider the size of files generated by each project. For instance, if you take 200 photos per shoot, each 20 MB in size, and anticipate 50 photo sessions in a year, you would need at least 200 GB of extra space in your cloud storage account.

One advantage of cloud storage is its flexibility. While it’s wise to leave room for a year’s worth of work, you don’t have to predict your data production for your entire career. You can always add more storage space in the future or decrease it if needed. Make sure to check with your cloud storage provider regarding options for expanding your account. If you’re unsure about your future storage needs, consider opting for a monthly or annual subscription instead of a long-term plan.

When comparing different cloud storage providers, it’s important to understand the options available. Some providers offer unlimited storage for a single computer, which can be a cost-effective solution if you primarily work on one device and don’t require file syncing across multiple devices. However, if you need to access files from anywhere, a one-device storage plan may not be suitable.

Photographers may find certain cloud storage platforms particularly appealing, as they often offer unlimited storage for image files, including RAW files. For instance, certain platforms provide free RAW file storage, while others offer free JPG storage. Unfortunately, similar deals are less common for graphic designers, videographers, and other creatives.

If you anticipate the need to increase your storage space over time, consider the plan increments offered by potential cloud storage providers. Some platforms offer storage in large increments, such as 5 TB, which may exceed your requirements. On the other hand, Google Photos allows you to add storage in smaller increments, such as 100 GB or 20 GB.

For those who prefer upfront payments or expect minimal changes in their storage needs, lifetime cloud storage plans are an option. These plans require a substantial upfront investment but can pay for themselves within a few years. However, it’s essential to carefully consider your future storage needs before committing to a lifetime plan, as upgrading to a larger plan may require purchasing an entirely new subscription.

In conclusion, selecting the appropriate amount of cloud storage space can help you save money. While it’s not an exact science, most cloud providers offer the option to increase your storage over time. When evaluating cloud storage providers, look for deals like unlimited image storage and consider upgrade options if you anticipate the need for additional space.

Source: https://www.creativebloq.com/advice/how-much-cloud-storage

Best cloud storage in 2023

Choosing the best cloud storage service can be challenging if you’re unsure of what to look for. This guide will explain what cloud storage is and why it’s beneficial to store your files in the cloud.

Cloud storage providers offer a range of plans, including free, personal, premium, and business options. Opting for cloud storage can save you from losing or accidentally deleting your files. In this article, we’ll focus on premium packages that offer features like file syncing and improved security.

IDrive is our top pick for the best cloud storage provider. It offers excellent value for money, secure storage solutions, and options for every user. The basic free plan provides 5GB of storage, and personal plans cost $59.62 a year for 5TB or $74.62 a year for 10TB. IDrive is compatible with various operating systems, and you can set up continuous data backup and even create a copy of external hard drives and NAS devices.

Google Drive is another great option, especially if you use Android and Google Workspace. It offers a feature-rich, affordable backup and sync solution. When you sign up, you get 15GB of free storage, and paid plans start at $1.99 a month for 100GB. Google Drive integrates well with other Google apps, such as Docs and Sheets.

Dropbox is a fantastic choice for personal cloud storage, with affordable plans and an impressive user interface. It excels in file sharing, but it doesn’t support backing up external or network drives. Dropbox offers a free plan with 2GB of storage and paid plans starting at $9.99 a month for 2TB.

Zoolz is a cloud storage provider backed by the AWS ecosystem. It offers high-quality storage with excellent security and compliance with various regulations. Zoolz provides a fully-functional free trial with 50GB, and its business plans support unlimited users and server backups. However, its mobile apps can be clunky, and upload and download speeds can be slow.

Microsoft OneDrive is the ultimate cloud storage solution for Windows and Microsoft 365 users. It offers seamless integration with Windows and other Microsoft services, such as Outlook and AutoCAD. OneDrive provides up to 1TB of free storage for Microsoft 365 subscribers and a forever-free capacity of 5GB for non-subscribers. Paid plans start at $1.99 a month for 100GB.

pCloud stands out with its lifetime subscription options, offering 500GB for a one-time payment of $175 or 2TB for $350. Monthly and family plans are also available. pCloud supports advanced collaboration and file-sharing features and provides secure TLS/SSL encryption for all files.

In conclusion, the best cloud storage service for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. IDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, Zoolz, Microsoft OneDrive, and pCloud are all excellent options to consider.

Source: https://www.tomsguide.com/buying-guide/best-cloud-storage

Best cloud storage (2023)

The best cloud storage services are essential for personal and business users alike, providing secure file storage, synchronization, and accessibility from anywhere. With the rise of remote working and content creation, cloud storage has become an integral part of our daily workflow.

To help you choose the right cloud storage service, we have reviewed the top options based on setup, security, sync speeds, and sharing performance. We have also considered file recovery and versioning options to ensure everyone stays on the same page. Additionally, we have analyzed the pricing plans offered by each service, ranging from free options to long-term plans.

IDrive is our top pick for both cloud backup and storage. It offers an easy setup process, unlimited device allowances, and an exceptional deal, starting at just $3.98 for the first year. It provides secure storage for photos and other files, with built-in playback features and file sharing tools.

Backblaze is another excellent backup tool, offering unlimited storage for personal and business use. It stands out by providing unlimited storage across its offerings.

Internxt is a security-focused cloud storage provider with multiple technologies to ensure data safety. It offers end-to-end encryption, file chunk distribution to protect against hardware failures, and virus scanning. The source code for their apps is available on Github, allowing developers to verify their security measures.

pCloud is known for its advanced file sharing features, allowing users to create custom download pages, slideshows, and even stream media files directly from storage. It offers lifetime plans and fair annual pricing.

Sync.com excels at simple file syncing and provides a user-friendly and secure service. It offers read-only, password-protected, and expiring download links. The service supports versioning for at least 180 days, and the mobile apps can automatically sync photos and videos.

IceDrive offers groundbreaking file management features, allowing Windows users to browse storage space from Explorer, just like working on a local drive. It focuses on security, encrypting data on the user’s device and offering two-factor authentication.

NordLocker is a cloud storage service from the creators of NordVPN. It is easy to use, with desktop apps that enable seamless file management. The service emphasizes privacy and offers strong encryption and multi-factor authentication.

Choosing a reliable and secure cloud storage provider is crucial for storing, accessing, and sharing your files. Consider the features, security measures, and pricing plans of each service to find the one that best suits your needs.

Source: https://www.techradar.com/best/best-cloud-storage

What Is Cloud Storage, and Why Should You Use It?

Cloud storage is a convenient and efficient way to store your data without relying on your local computer’s hard drive. Instead, you can opt for paid services offered by large corporations like Microsoft, Apple, and Google, as well as smaller providers, who store your files on their servers accessible via the internet.

The main advantage of cloud storage is the ability to access your files from anywhere and any device. By simply logging into your account, you can view and even work on documents and spreadsheets directly from the cloud. This accessibility makes it a valuable tool for freeing up space on your computer or using it as a backup solution.

One of the benefits of using cloud storage is the potential to save space on your hard drive. By offloading files to the cloud, your computer’s storage capacity won’t fill up as quickly, leading to better performance, especially for devices with limited storage. Additionally, instead of moving files, you can also create backups of your data using dedicated companies or no-code automation software. This way, if anything happens to your computer, your files will remain safe and accessible.

Cloud storage also offers financial advantages. Unlike purchasing additional hard drives, cloud storage services typically operate on a subscription basis, allowing you to spread out the costs. Furthermore, many providers offer free plans, which can be sufficient if your storage needs are moderate.

The key benefits of cloud storage are its accessibility and continuous synchronization. With cloud storage, you have the freedom to access your files from any location, as long as you have an internet connection and the necessary credentials. This flexibility enables seamless collaboration and eliminates the need to carry physical storage devices.

Continuous sync ensures that any changes made to files are automatically updated across all devices connected to the cloud storage account. This feature is particularly useful when collaborating with others in a work environment, as it guarantees that everyone is working with the latest version of the files.

While cloud storage offers numerous advantages, it is essential to consider its drawbacks. One major limitation is the requirement for a reliable internet connection. Without a stable and fast connection, the usability of cloud storage diminishes significantly. Additionally, the security of cloud storage depends on the provider you choose. Some services have experienced data breaches, making it crucial to exercise caution when storing sensitive or confidential information online. It is advisable to keep such files securely stored on your local hard drive.

In conclusion, cloud storage provides a convenient and flexible solution for storing and accessing your files remotely. Its benefits include saving space on your local hard drive, providing cost-effective options, and enabling seamless access and collaboration from anywhere. However, it is important to assess the security measures of cloud storage providers and ensure the protection of sensitive information. Ultimately, cloud storage can greatly enhance your file management and productivity, especially when used judiciously.

Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/775235/what-is-cloud-storage-and-why-should-you-use-it/

The best cloud storage services of 2023: Expert picks

do not use the following words: article, author, author’s name, personal name, this text, text, content, summary and do not copy the title, and Summarize the following at least 500 words in length and Break it up into shorter paragraphs (not need use word paragraph ) : The best cloud storage services of 2023: Expert picks
With so many of us , having a reliable cloud storage provider is more important than ever. You want your office work stored safely away from home, where your data is always one dropped cup of coffee away from disaster.

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Personal cloud storage got started in 2007, when Drew Houston, Dropbox’s CEO, got sick and tired of losing his USB drive. So he created the first individual, small . It was a radical idea in its time, and everyone loved it. Today, there are dozens of cheap or free cloud storage providers and services. But — beyond giving you storage — they’re very different.

How do you choose which one is right for you? You could just pick based on how much free storage space you get. That’s simple, but, a cloud storage service’s real value comes from how well it works for you or your business. As you’ll see, some work much better with some operating systems and business plans than others.

Let’s get to it.

Also:

Pros

Cons

Free storage: iDrive starts its offers with 5GB for free

iDrive is for everyone who wants a cloud backup and cloud storage in an all-in-one. Its main job is backing up small businesses, but it also works well for personal cloud storage and file sharing.

Unlike many other cloud backup services, iDrive doesn’t lock you down to a single computer. You can use one account to back up your Windows and macOS desktops, your Android smartphone and iPhones and tablets, and your network drives. There’s also a , but it’s meant for Linux servers. There is no desktop Linux storage client. Darn it! You can, however, use its web interface for manually uploading files.

For now, iDrive has a killer deal. It’s the most storage for the least amount of money you’ll find today. They’re offering 10 Terabytes (TB) — no, that’s not a typo, terabytes — for $75 a year. I use it to back up my massive media library of 1930s and ’40s movies.

Normally, iDrive starts its offers with 10GB for free. That’s okay, but if you want to make the most of it for backup, the real deal is in its . These start at $59.62 for 5TB for a year or an even better deal of $74.62 for 10TB annually per user. There are also business packages with unlimited users, but the price goes up for less storage. For example, the company will charge you $74.62 for 5TB of storage that you can share between 5 users.

If you’re looking for a personal or small business backup, iDrive is a great choice. It’s both easy to use and inexpensive. It’s also good for cloud storage, and I’m very happy with it.

Pros

Cons

Free storage: Prime members get 5GB of storage for free with Amazon Cloud Drive

Amazon S3 from Amazon Web Services (AWS) is an object storage service, and it’s a great service. But, that’s not what individuals use. They use Amazon Cloud Drive for personal and small business uses — and it’s not a first-rate storage service.

Mind you, Amazon Cloud Drive is better than it used to be. Amazon Cloud Drive now has sync services for Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows. Alas, it still doesn’t have a Linux client. The web interface, however, continues to be a bit klutzy.

On the plus side, Amazon moves files by using (aka differential sync or delta sync). With this method, which Dropbox also uses, you only send and receive the differences (the delta) between files when you sync a file. This makes syncing files much faster on these services than their rivals.

One nice feature, if you’re an member, is you also get unlimited, full-resolution photo storage and 5GB of video storage with .

Prime members get 5GB of storage for free with Amazon Cloud Drive for file storage. If you want more, start at 100GB for $19.99 a year and 1TB for $59.99. If you go monthly, for $2 a month you’ll get 100GB of storage, for $7 a month 1TB, and for $12 a month 2TB. Other Amazon cloud plans will take you up to 30TB for, brace yourself, $1,799.70.

Amazon Drive is worth your time if you’re an Amazon Prime member. If you’re not, keep looking. You can do better.

Pros

Cons

Free storage: OneDrive comes with 5GB of free storage

OneDrive is baked into Windows, and they’re delicious together. As far as a Windows user is concerned, OneDrive is just another directory in the File Explorer — talk about easy. Anyone can use it on the web, with a desktop app for Mac and earlier versions of Windows, and with OneDrive apps for Android, iOS, Windows Phone, and Xbox. Yes, Xbox.

Linux? No, not yet. The client, which I’ve long recommended for Google Drive, also works with OneDrive. This program costs $29.99 for an individual lifetime subscription and $49.99 for a team license.

Microsoft OneDrive’s real selling point — besides working hand-in-glove with Windows — is it integrates perfectly with Microsoft Office programs. With Microsoft 365, you can also collaborate with others in documents and spreadsheets in real-time with your partners.

OneDrive comes with 5GB of free storage. This plan maxes out at six people or 6TB of storage. Microsoft 365 Business Standard users, who get access to the full online versions of Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, at $12.50 per user per month with an annual subscription. If all you need is additional storage, you can add 100GB for $1.99 a month.

If you’re already a Microsoft 365 user, this is a no-brainer. OneDrive is perfect for anyone who uses Windows and Microsoft Office every day.

Pros

Cons

Free storage: Box starts out with a free cloud storage account and 10GB of storage

Like most cloud storage services, Box has clients for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. It also supports Blackberry. It, however, doesn’t support Linux. There is a third-party program, , which enables Linux users to work with Box.

For $7 a month, the lets you upload files up to 2GB and provides you with 100GB of space. But while Box is a fine cloud storage service, where it really shines is as a groupware or workflow application. Used that way, it enables you to share files with colleagues, assign tasks, leave comments on someone’s work, and get notifications when a file changes. It’s integrated with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office 365.

The starter package begins at $5 a month for up to three users with 100GB of storage. The next step up in business plans is $15 a month for three users and unlimited — yes — unlimited storage.

Again, Box’s real selling point is its combination of storage and office software.

Pros

Free storage: Dropbox Basic’s free storage is only 2GB

Dropbox came first, so it’s no wonder that so many of us have Dropbox accounts. Sure, Dropbox Basic’s free storage is only 2GB, but you can use it on any platform. You can get your files from Dropbox’s website, desktop applications for Mac, Windows, and Linux, the native file systems, and the iOS, Android, and Kindle Fire mobile apps. Heck, even Blackberry phones are still supported. It’s a snap to set up, and you need not worry about syncing files for a second.

Dropbox’s personal plans move up to 2TB for $12 a month if you need more storage. Dropbox Business plans start at $18 a month for Teams with 5TB of storage. The Advanced option gives you unlimited storage at $30 per user per month, starting with at least three users. That amounts to a starting price of $90 a month. These latter plans come with a 30-day free trial.

As always, Dropbox shines for its sheer simplicity — and the simple fact that you can use it on almost any platform you care to name. If you value simple, fast, and easy, Dropbox should be your first choice.

I don’t need to tell you that. You’re probably already using it.

Pros

Cons

Free storage: You get 15GB of free storage and an excellent office suite

Google Drive used to be just storage. But then Google took its online office suite, Google Docs, and pasted them together into Google One. Now, you get 15GB of free storage and an excellent office suite by just having a Google account. It’s good enough that many businesses and users are now using it as their complete cloud-based office. I use it all the time myself.

Google Drive comes with clients for most operating systems, except, oddly enough, Linux. Google has promised there would be a client for ages, but it’s never arrived. There is, however, an excellent third-party Linux commercial client, . This program costs $29.99 for an individual lifetime subscription and $49.99 for teams.

Need more storage? No problem. Under the name Google One, Google Drive storage prices start at $2 per month or $20 a year for 100GB. Or, for $3 a month or $30 a year, you get 200GB. At the higher end, for 2TB, you pay $10 per month or $100 annually. You can share your storage with up to five other people with all these plans.

You can also use the on both Android and iOS devices to automatically back up your smartphones. This includes your device data, multimedia messages, and photos/videos in their original quality.

One of Google Drive’s best features is its integration with Google search. So, for example, if you’ve lost track of a file but remember a couple of words in it, it’s easy to find. I use this feature almost every day.

Pros

Cons

Free storage: As much storage as you have available on your machines

Nextcloud is an open-source program that enables you to set up your own cloud storage service using your existing servers and hard drives. This do-it-yourself cloud is for everyone who values security and privacy.

You can use Nextcloud to set up cloud storage either on an office server or off your own external servers. How much storage can it give you? How much do you want? I have a 4TB Nextcloud drive in my office and another terabyte off my co-hosted server rack. Still, NextCloud, while easy to set up for a Linux power user, might prove a challenge for some.

Nextcloud is also evolving. It started as a standalone Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) file storage cloud. It’s been adding in more services, making it more of an all-in-one office suite like those offered by Google and Microsoft. The latest edition, , is also much faster than previous versions.

Nextcloud comes in both a free and a business edition. With the free version, you set it up yourself using your own computers. Here, you get as much storage as you have available on your machines.

If you don’t want to run it yourself, the business version. , comes with basic support for up to 100 users at €36 ($37.80) per user per year.

This cloud storage solution is for anyone who wants the maximum amount of control over their cloud and doesn’t mind doing some extra work to get it just right. I highly recommend it.

Pros

Cons

Free storage: pCloud offers 4GB of free storage for starters, but you can max it out to 10GB

I’m always cautious about lifetime subscriptions to anything, but especially to computer services. Still, after nine years in business, I’m inclined to give the Switzerland-based pCloud the benefit of the doubt.

I also like that pCloud comes with clients for Linux, macOS, and Windows, as well as Android and iOS smartphones.

The pCloud offers 4GB of free storage for starters. You can also add more storage, at 1GB a go, for installing a desktop app, a smartphone app, storing your smartphone’s videos and photos to pCloud, and getting others to subscribe to pCloud. You can max this out to 10GB of free storage.

But, if you’re really serious about your storage, you can currently get 500GB of storage forever for a one-time payment of $199. Or, $399 for 2TB. That’s a sweet deal.

Another nice feature is that pCloud comes with client-side only file encryption. With , you encrypt your files using 256-bit AES, and no one except you can read them. Oh, when they say no one, they mean no one. If you lose your password, you lose your data. These files are stored in the Crypto folder. This feature costs $4 per month, $39 per year, or $150 for a lifetime plan. It’s included for free on business plans. You can also opt to store your data in the more privacy-conscious European Union servers.

The business service starts with 1TB for $96 per user per year. Or, you can buy a plan for the lifetime (of the company) for $175 for Premium and $350 for Premium Plus. pCloud for Business offers 1TB of storage per user, starting at $287.64 per year. Each additional user gets their own TB of storage.

If privacy and paying once for cloud storage for a very long time strikes you as attractive, check pCloud out.

Pros

Cons

Free storage: You get 5GB of free iCloud storage by owning an Apple product

It used to be that I didn’t like iCloud, even on my Macs. I used Google Drive or NextCloud instead. But it’s finally cleaned up enough of its bugs that I can say Mac, iPhone, or iPad users can trust it with their data.

In theory, iCloud offered seamless integration and great ease of use on any iGadget. Except, it didn’t. I won’t bore you with all the ways it used to annoy me, but it’s finally largely bug-free.

You get 5GB of free iCloud storage by owning an Apple product. One good feature with that is that anything you buy from the iTunes Store doesn’t count against your storage limit.

You can use iCloud to automatically back up all data from your Apple devices onto its servers. But, 5GBs won’t cut it for serious backups. Instead, you’ll need to upgrade to one of three iCloud+ plans: $1 a month for 50GB; $3 a month for 200GB, or $10 a month for 2TB.

While it’s not a big selling point, iCloud is also integrated with iWork, Apple’s low-end productivity suite. It’s no Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, but it’s okay for, say, school work. I’m still not crazy about iCloud — I doubt I ever will be — but if you’re already an Apple user all the time, it’s finally worth using iCloud.

Personally, I prefer iDrive, Google Drive, and Nextcloud — but those meet my needs best. I’ve used all these services, though, and there’s not a lemon in them. Here is a look at how all the services compare in vital metrics:

What you will find is we chose a variety of options to suit many different purposes. So, whether you’re wanting to backup family pictures or keep business docs secure, we have a solution for you.

There’s no one size fits all solutions. Your cloud choice depends on what you use and what you want to do with it. All these services give you more than enough free or cheap service for small business purposes. In short, don’t be distracted by how many free gigabytes of storage you get — it’s not that important. This table helps you determine the best cloud services to choose based on what you want from it:

When it comes to cloud storage, a cloud really is just someone else’s hard drive. Despite the endless stories of how clouds are insecure, and someone can grab your data, your data is encrypted while traveling over the internet to your providers’ servers. Once there, it’s encrypted on those servers. Really, your data is probably safer there than it is at your home or office.

The best cloud storage services don’t upload a new complete copy of your files every time you modify them. Instead, they only ship the changes to your files. This saves you time and bandwidth.

In general, cloud storage services are safe, however, this again points to the importance of choosing the right cloud storage provider. The cloud storage services on this list all store your files on cloud servers that are encrypted. This means that your data and files are scrambled in a way that makes it harder for cybercriminals to access the information.

However, it’s also vital to protect data on your end too. You can do this by refraining from using a public Wi-Fi connection and changing your passwords regularly.

Also:

Google Drive is a cloud-based storage service that allows users to store files, documents, and pictures for free up to 15GB. Best of all, it’s very easy to use.

Also:

It also offers users built-in protection from malware, ransomware, and more. Think of it as your digital security guard ensuring your data remains safe from the prying eyes of hackers. And for work, it offers easy integration with programs like Microsoft 365.

Several services offer huge amounts of free storage. But I don’t trust any of them. It falls under the adage you get what you pay for. The most storage you can get for free is Google, with its 15GB of storage.

And if you need to pay for more, providers like Apple give you a generous storage limit for $10 per month.

Do you want to be as sure as anyone can be that your data’s safe from prying eyes? If that’s you, I recommend either building your own cloud storage service with NextCloud or using the high-security pCloud. With NextCloud, you, of course, decide where to keep your data.

I use both my own in-house servers and an offsite server. With pCloud, you can decide between US or EU servers to store your data safely. Either way, with pCloud, you get the best available data encryption.

It’s all well and good to use for backups — I do — but you’re always one house fire or burglary away from kissing your data goodbye. So, if you want a serious backup, why not turn to long-time cloud backup champion Backblaze?

The best thing about Backblaze is that, for $60 annually, you get unlimited cloud storage for your backup. Let me repeat that, unlimited. I like this deal.

In addition, if you subscribe to , an in its own right, you can get Backblaze for a year for free. Backblaze is also downright trivial to use. Once you’ve set it up, it takes care of the backup itself, so you needn’t worry about it anymore. It also encrypts your data so no snooper can get into your secrets.

Sync is another service I recommend based on its collaboration tools. With it, you can create centralized folders your colleagues and clients can access without having to skim through mountains of files. And they take care of branding by sending files through a portal with your company logo on it. How cool is that?

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Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-cloud-storage/