Google Drive — Best Overall
Free (15GB) / $1.99/mo · ★★★★★ · Unbeatable integration and collaboration
| Rank | Service | Best For | Price | Rating | Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Google Drive | Overall | Free (15GB) / $1.99/mo | ★★★★★ | Visit |
| 2 | iCloud+ | Apple | $0.99/mo | ★★★★★ | Visit |
| 3 | pCloud | Lifetime Deal | $49.99/yr | ★★★★☆½ | Visit |
| 4 | Dropbox | File Sharing | $11.99/mo | ★★★★☆ | Visit |
| 5 | OneDrive | Microsoft 365 | $1.99/mo | ★★★★☆ | Visit |
| 6 | MEGA | Free Storage | $5.33/mo | ★★★★☆ | Visit |
| 7 | Proton Drive | Privacy | $3.99/mo | ★★★★☆ | Visit |
| 8 | Sync.com | Zero-Knowledge | $8/mo | ★★★½☆ | Visit |
| 9 | IDrive | Backup | $2.95/yr | ★★★½☆ | Visit |
| 10 | Internxt | Open-Source | $5.49/mo | ★★★½☆ | Visit |
Your files deserve better than a failing hard drive. Cloud storage keeps your documents, photos, and work safely accessible from any device, anywhere. But the best services go far beyond simple file backup — they offer real-time collaboration, end-to-end encryption, and seamless integration with the tools you already use. We tested all 10 services for speed, security, features, and value.
Google Drive wins because it's more than storage — it's an entire productivity ecosystem. Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides let you create and collaborate in real-time directly in the cloud. The 15GB free tier is the most generous among major providers. Google One plans ($1.99/mo for 100GB, $2.99/mo for 200GB) include VPN access and family sharing for up to 5 members. Search is lightning-fast thanks to Google's AI, which can even find text inside photos and PDFs.
Pros
- 15GB free storage — best among major providers
- Seamless Google Workspace integration
- AI-powered search finds content inside files
- Real-time collaboration on documents
Cons
- Google scans files for ad targeting
- No zero-knowledge encryption option
- 15GB shared across Gmail, Drive, and Photos
If you live in the Apple ecosystem, iCloud+ is the obvious choice. It syncs Photos, Files, Messages, Keychain, and device backups invisibly across all your Apple devices. The iCloud+ subscription adds Private Relay (a VPN-like feature for Safari), Hide My Email aliases, and custom email domains. Advanced Data Protection enables end-to-end encryption for nearly all iCloud data, putting it on par with privacy-focused providers.
Pros
- Deepest Apple device integration available
- Advanced Data Protection (end-to-end encryption)
- Private Relay and Hide My Email included
- Affordable at $0.99/mo for 50GB
Cons
- Windows/Android support is limited
- Only 5GB free storage
- No real-time document collaboration like Google
pCloud stands out with its lifetime subscription plans — pay once and never worry about monthly fees again. The $199 lifetime plan for 500GB (or $399 for 2TB) offers the best long-term value of any cloud storage service. Swiss-based with strong privacy laws, pCloud offers optional client-side encryption (pCloud Crypto) for sensitive files. The built-in media player and automatic photo/video backup make it great for media-heavy users.
Pros
- Lifetime plans eliminate recurring costs
- Swiss jurisdiction with strong privacy laws
- Built-in media player for audio and video
- Automatic photo and video backup
Cons
- Client-side encryption costs extra ($49.99/yr)
- No built-in document editing
- Collaboration features are basic
Quick Reviews: #4 – #10
#4 Dropbox ($11.99/mo) — The original cloud storage pioneer and still the best for file sharing and team collaboration. Dropbox Paper for docs, Replay for video review, and Sign for e-signatures create a complete workflow. However, the free plan is now just 2GB, and paid plans are pricier than competitors offering more storage.
#5 OneDrive ($1.99/mo) — The natural companion to Microsoft 365. The $6.99/mo Microsoft 365 Personal plan includes 1TB of OneDrive storage plus Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook — making it the best value if you need Office apps. Deep Windows integration and real-time co-authoring on Office documents make it essential for Microsoft users.
#6 MEGA ($5.33/mo) — Offers 20GB free (with bonus storage promotions that can reach 50GB+) and end-to-end encryption on all files by default. MEGA's security is a standout feature, and its encrypted chat and video calling features add communication tools. The interface is less polished than top competitors, but the security-to-value ratio is excellent.
#7 Proton Drive ($3.99/mo) — From the team behind ProtonMail, Proton Drive offers end-to-end encryption, zero-access architecture, and is based in Switzerland. It integrates with the Proton ecosystem (Mail, VPN, Pass, Calendar). Still maturing in features compared to Google Drive, but unmatched for privacy. Best for users who prioritize data sovereignty above all else.
#8 Sync.com ($8/mo) — A Canadian zero-knowledge cloud storage provider that encrypts everything before it leaves your device. 5GB free, and paid plans start at $8/mo for 2TB. HIPAA and GDPR compliant, making it suitable for healthcare and legal professionals. Lacks the productivity features of Google Drive but takes privacy seriously.
#9 IDrive ($2.95/yr first year) — More of a backup solution than a sync-and-share service. IDrive backs up unlimited devices (including NAS and external drives) to one account. The first-year promotional pricing is extraordinary at under $3/year for 10TB. Best for users who need comprehensive device backup rather than real-time file collaboration.
#10 Internxt ($5.49/mo) — An open-source, privacy-focused alternative that distributes encrypted file fragments across a decentralized network. The code is fully auditable, and Internxt offers a free 10GB plan. The technology is promising, but the platform is still young, with fewer features and less polish than established competitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cloud storage safe?
Yes. All reputable cloud storage services use AES-256 encryption to protect your files both in transit and at rest. For maximum security, choose a zero-knowledge provider (pCloud Crypto, Proton Drive, Sync.com, MEGA) where even the company itself cannot access your unencrypted files. Enable two-factor authentication on any service you use.
How much cloud storage do I need?
For most individuals, 100–200GB is sufficient for documents, photos, and light video. If you shoot a lot of video or work with large design files, 1–2TB is more appropriate. Families should consider 200GB–2TB shared plans. Check how much you're currently using on your devices to get a baseline.
Can I use multiple cloud storage services?
Absolutely. Many people use Google Drive for collaboration, iCloud for device backup, and a zero-knowledge provider for sensitive files. Tools like MultCloud and CloudMounter can help you manage multiple services from one interface. Using multiple free tiers is also a smart way to maximize storage without paying.
What is zero-knowledge encryption?
Zero-knowledge encryption means the provider encrypts your files with a key that only you possess. The company never sees your unencrypted data and could not hand it over even if compelled by law. Proton Drive, Sync.com, and MEGA offer this by default. pCloud and Internxt offer it as an option.