The Top Cloud Storage Providers of 2023
Discover the ultimate solution to your storage woes! Explore the top cloud storage services of 2023 From IDrive as the overall best to Google Drive/One for collaboration, Icedrive for security, Synccom for large files, and MEGA for free storage Upgrade to the future of data storage!
After careful review, we affirm that these cloud storage services remain the top choices available.
The advantage of cloud storage services is that they enable you to store all your files in a single location, which can be accessed from any device, as long as you have an internet connection. It is essential to select a service that offers the features you require.
This Cybersecurity Awareness Week article is brought to you in association with Incogni.
UPDATE: 10/20/2023
We've reviewed our recommendations and are confident these are still the best cloud storage services available.
IDrive
Best Cloud Storage Service Overall IDrive
Google Drive/One
Best Cloud Storage Service for Collaboration Google
Icedrive
Best Cloud Storage Service for Security Icedrive
sync
Best Cloud Storage Service for Large Files Sync.com
mega
Best Free Cloud Storage Service MEGA
What to Look For With Cloud Storage in 2023
Cloud storage has rapidly become an essential part of our daily lives, used not only by businesses and tech-savvy individuals but also by millions of people worldwide. With this surge in popularity, the number of available cloud storage services has multiplied, while prices have become more reasonable. However, finding the best value-for-money service remains crucial. It's not just about the amount of storage you require, as most services offer ample storage for the average user. It's also about considering other features that you may need.
While most providers offer a free storage plan to get you started, it's worth contemplating the cost of premium plans if you ever need to upgrade. After all, transferring files between multiple services can be a hassle. The average price in the market for two terabytes of cloud storage is approximately ten dollars per month – an abundance of storage for most users.
Most cloud storage services offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your files are securely encrypted during transfer and while stored in the cloud. This means that even if someone intercepts your files, they will only see scrambled data without the encryption key. In typical end-to-end storage, both you and the storage provider hold the encryption key. However, with zero-knowledge encryption, the encryption key is kept solely by you, providing the highest level of data security.
When it comes to cloud storage services, Microsoft, Apple, and Google all have their own offerings, which include both free and premium options. Google Drive is recommended on our list due to its compatibility with different operating systems. However, if you primarily use Windows and work in Microsoft Office, selecting OneDrive as your cloud storage is a viable choice. Similarly, if you exclusively use Apple devices, upgrading to a premium plan with iCloud is a great option. However, if you frequently switch between operating systems, Google Drive is the better overall choice.
Box and Dropbox, two other renowned players in the field of cloud storage, are noticeably absent from our top list. Although both services are commendable, they primarily cater to business requirements rather than individual users. Therefore, if you are seeking cloud storage for personal use, these services may offer excessive storage options and features beyond what you need.
However, we have carefully selected a range of exceptional cloud storage services that each possess unique qualities worth recommending.
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The product recommendations provided by How-To Geek are compiled by our team of experts, who have assisted individuals in repairing their devices over a billion times. Our recommendations are solely based on thorough research and our extensive knowledge in the field. We never accept any form of payment in exchange for endorsing or reviewing a product. To learn more, please continue reading.
Best Cloud Storage Service Overall: IDrive
IDrive
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ A nice mixture of cloud storage and data backup | ✗ Plans can only be paid yearly |
✓ The cheapest way to get 5TB of storage | ✗ Few sharing and collaboration options |
✓ Option to make it zero-knowledge | |
✓ Unique file versioning system |
What sets IDrive apart is its combined offering of cloud storage and online backup, which are typically sold as separate services. Remarkably, it manages to deliver this dual functionality at a more affordable price compared to many standalone cloud storage services, all while maintaining a commendable range of features.
The free plan allows users to experience the service with a generous 10GB of basic cloud storage. For those in need of more storage, our premium plans offer some of the most cost-effective options available. Starting with our IDrive Personal plan, you can enjoy an impressive 5TB of storage for less than $5/month in the first year. It's important to note that payment for these plans is required annually upfront, rather than on a monthly basis.
Managing file storage is a breeze with our convenient browser interface, as well as our desktop and mobile apps. Upon installing the desktop app, a single folder called Sync is created. Any files placed in this folder are automatically backed up to the cloud storage and can be accessed from all your devices. This ensures easy accessibility to important files from anywhere you need them.
IDrive offers a unique and impressive versioning feature. Unlike other cloud storage services that retain file versions for a limited time, IDrive keeps up to 30 previous versions of edited files indefinitely. What sets IDrive apart is that these previous versions do not use up your storage quota, eliminating concerns of excessive file duplication.
To ensure the utmost security, IDrive employs end-to-end, 256-bit AES encryption for your cloud-stored files and backed-up data. While the service is not initially zero-knowledge, you have the option to create a private key during setup, which grants you zero-knowledge capabilities. However, it's important to note that opting for zero-knowledge means sacrificing easy file sharing functionality. If you don't anticipate the need to share files, this trade-off shouldn't pose a problem.
IDrive offers tools for creating and saving backups or clones of your computer's hard disk, in addition to its general file storage features. In the event of a drive failure, a clone allows for quick restoration of everything, including the operating system, onto a new drive.
While some may argue that IDrive focuses more on backups rather than file storage, the balance between these two services is fairly even. Although it lacks the sharing and collaboration tools found in most pure cloud storage services, IDrive excels in data backup and storage.
IDrive
Best Cloud Storage Service OverallA unique mix of cloud storage and data backup, with some of the best value premium plans available right now.
IDrive
Best Cloud Storage Service for Collaboration: Google Drive/One
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ A generous 15GB with the free account | ✗ Doesn't use zero-knowledge encryption |
✓ Storage can be shared with family members | ✗ Google's history of not respecting users privacy |
✓ Powerful search and collaboration tools | |
✓ Many free apps available to add features |
Google Drive stands out among other prominent cloud storage providers for multiple reasons. One key factor is the extensive user base that already possesses a Google account. Furthermore, the inclusion of 15GB of complimentary storage and exceptional collaboration tools, particularly for those utilizing Google Workspace, present compelling reasons to choose Google Drive.
For individuals requiring more than the allocated 15GB, there are various premium plans available for upgrade. These begin with the Basic plan, offering 100GB for a mere $2 per month, and scale up to 30TB for $150 per month. Additionally, the 2TB plan falls in the middle range, and though it may not offer the most cost-effective solution at $8.33 per month, it remains competitive with similar storage plans offered by other providers.
Google Drive offers a plethora of add-ons, making it stand out as an exceptional platform. You can freely enhance your experience with an array of tools ranging from efficient file organization to seamless collaboration and increased productivity.
In addition, Google Drive seamlessly integrates with other Google Workspace tools like Docs and Sheets, heightening its usefulness. Not only can you effortlessly share documents with others, but you can also grant them editing permissions and even collaborate in real-time on a single document concurrently with others.
Content seamlessly integrates with all Google products, including Android phones, allowing effortless storage of system backups and data. Additionally, well-designed and user-friendly apps are available for Windows, iOS, iPadOS, and Mac.
However, Google Drive falls short in terms of security and privacy. While it offers end-to-end encryption, it lacks zero-knowledge encryption. This technical limitation means that Google can access your data at any time. Considering Google's reputation regarding user privacy, it's important to be mindful of this when using Drive.
Google Drive/One
The ultimate choice for seamless collaboration and sharing features. An ideal cloud storage service for individuals and teams that prioritize interactive teamwork, without requiring advanced encryption methods.
Best Cloud Storage Service for Security: Icedrive
Icedrive
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Lifetime plan can equal big savings | ✗ Doesn't feature many collaboration tools |
✓ Uses incredibly secure Twofish encryption | |
✓ Unique sync folder acts like a mounted drive | |
✓ Fast data transfer and smooth syncing |
Icedrive, launched in 2019, is a newcomer in the cloud storage market. Despite the presence of well-established competitors, this UK-based company offers an impressive cloud storage solution.
One notable feature of Icedrive is its free plan for personal use. This plan includes 10GB of storage and a daily bandwidth limit of 3GB. While it lacks the client-side encryption found in the premium plans, it is still suitable for storing less sensitive data. The premium storage plans range from $1.67 per month for 150GB to $15 per month for 5TB.
Icedrive stands out with its exceptional feature that allows seamless access to stored files. In addition to the user-friendly Android and iOS apps and the web application, it also provides innovative Windows desktop software.
With this software, you can conveniently access your cloud-stored files as if they were stored in a drive directly on your computer. This means that your cloud storage seamlessly integrates with the rest of your storage, offering a consistent and familiar experience. Transferring files to and from this virtual drive is as effortless and efficient as moving files between folders on your PC.
One of the standout features of Icedrive is its approach to file encryption. Unlike many other platforms that rely on the conventional AES encryption algorithm, Icedrive utilizes the highly secure Twofish encryption. This alternative encryption method is widely regarded as being equal to or even more resistant to hacking attempts compared to AES. Moreover, since it is not as extensively adopted, Twofish is less prone to being targeted by hackers.
Furthermore, Icedrive employs a zero-knowledge, end-to-end encryption model, which means that the encryption keys generated are exclusively accessible to you. Even Icedrive's own system remains incapable of accessing these keys.
Icedrive excels in providing secure and hassle-free cloud storage. However, its sharing and collaboration features could be improved. While it does offer features like password-protected sharing links, setting expiration dates, and creating upload-only links, it lacks the ability to grant permissions to other users for editing files or folders in your storage. If sharing and collaboration are not a priority for you, Icedrive remains an excellent choice.
Icedrive
Experience the Best Cloud Storage Service for Unbeatable Security. Discover a remarkable value cloud storage service that guarantees top-notch security while providing users with an intuitive desktop sync app that is effortlessly user-friendly.
Icedrive
Best Cloud Storage Service for Large Files: Sync.com
Sync.com
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Uses zero-knowledge, end-to-end encryption | ✗ Not the fastest file transfer speeds |
✓ Unlimited data transfer and file size limits | |
✓ Works brilliantly with Office 365 apps | |
✓ Powerful syncing and sharing options |
Sync, while not as widely recognized as other cloud storage providers, has gained significant popularity in recent years. This can be attributed to its impressive combination of affordability, robust security measures, and extensive range of features. In terms of pure cloud storage solutions, Sync is undeniably among the best.
Similar to other options in this category, Sync offers a complimentary plan for individuals seeking basic storage or wishing to test out the service. With the free plan, users receive 5GB of storage space, file versioning and recovery capabilities for a duration of 30 days, as well as limited sharing options, including the ability to create a few password-protected links. For those requiring more extensive storage, premium solo plans are available starting at $8 per month for 2TB of storage, with the option to upgrade to 6TB for $20 per month.
Sync ensures data security by utilizing zero-knowledge end-to-end encryption. The robust security measures extend to the sharing capabilities as well. Users have the ability to generate unlimited password-protected links, establish download restrictions for shared files, and designate expiration dates for shared links.
In addition to the aforementioned secure sharing options, Sync allows the creation of centralized folders and grants the ability to assign access permissions on both a user and folder basis. In the unfortunate event that a device with storage access is misplaced or stolen, users can remotely prevent unauthorized access to connected devices. Furthermore, the platform offers the convenience of remotely deleting files that have been shared.
Sync excels in file syncing, offering user-friendly apps for iOS and Android, as well as a well-crafted web interface. Unlike most cloud storage solutions, Sync allows you to selectively sync folders to specific devices, which is advantageous if you have limited storage space on your computer. Furthermore, unlike many other services, Sync imposes no limits on file size or data transfer, making it an ideal choice for those who frequently need to store large files.
In our testing, we uploaded a 1GB folder to all the cloud storage services featured on this list. Although Icedrive was not the fastest in data transfer, it was still reasonably fast. If you are seeking a secure, functional, and cost-effective cloud storage service that focuses solely on its core purpose, Sync checks all the boxes.
synchronization
The best cloud storage service for handling large files offers exceptional value for your money, along with an extensive range of capabilities for sharing, collaborating, and synchronizing data.
Sync.com
Best Free Cloud Storage Service: MEGA
MEGA
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Offers the most free storage of any cloud storage | ✗ Usage data could be shared with third parties |
✓ Very secure, with zero-knowledge encryption | ✗ Premium plans are a little expensive |
✓ Great collaboration and sharing tools | |
✓ Secure, encrypted chat client |
MEGA stands out for various reasons, with its greatest advantage being the provision of the largest amount of free storage compared to other cloud storage services. With MEGA's free plan, you get 20GB of storage, which is double the amount offered by many other services on this list.
Additionally, MEGA provides the opportunity to acquire more free storage by completing specific actions, including installing the iOS or Android mobile app, or inviting friends to join. This bonus storage is valid for a year, and if you manage to utilize it completely during that time, upgrading to a premium plan becomes a viable option.
There are multiple premium plans available for selection. For individuals, the plans start at $5 per month for 400GB and go up to a substantial 16TB for less than $30 per month. All premium plans have monthly data transfer limits, but they are quite generous and equal to the storage size.
MEGA is another cloud storage service that utilizes end-to-end, zero-knowledge encryption. If you are cautious with your account password, this represents the highest level of security for consumer cloud storage. For additional security measures, you can enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and store a recovery key to regain access in case of password forgetfulness.
MEGA offers a distinct feature with its secure chat client. The chat link can be generated in the desktop, mobile, or web app, ensuring exclusivity. With robust encryption, the chat content remains completely private and secure.
Additionally, MEGA provides a wide range of sharing options. Shared links are encrypted, and for enhanced security, encryption keys can be sent separately. Users can further safeguard their links by setting passwords and expiration dates, or by revoking access through permission modifications.
MEGA has had a somewhat turbulent history as it was founded by Kim Dotcom. Nevertheless, Dotcom severed ties with the company in 2015 and is no longer involved. Privacy concerns persist due to the privacy policy permitting third-party use of user data. However, this practice is comparable to data collection and usage by companies like Google or Microsoft, though it is important to consider.
With its exceptional security, speed, and excellent value, MEGA provides an unbeatable option for those seeking a substantial amount of free cloud storage.
offers a mega cloud storage service that is both reliable and secure. With top-notch security measures and zero-knowledge encryption, your data is always protected. Plus, the free storage plan is generous and allows you to store a significant amount of files. Not only that, but you also have access to excellent collaboration and sharing features, making it easy to work with others and share your files securely. Choose
for the best free cloud storage service on the market.
MEGA
