Save on Cloud Storage: Comparing Options for Every Budget
Are you looking for an inexpensive cloud based storage provider to add more room for your photos, videos and music? Do you want unlimited google storage or file hosting backup space? The cost for cloud hosting services are plummeting! Read our guide about cloud data backup and storage options and find the cloud hosted storage that suits your needs! ## Top Cloud Storage Options
Cloud storage is a handy form of computing that allows you to store data on a remote server easily retrievable from the internet (or cloud) whenever you want. The data is backed up, managed and controlled by a cloud provider who charges a determined fee. The service costs determine the capacity and features of your cloud storage.
Cloud storage is an economical alternative to storing data on hard drives or storage networks. Since this service is available via the web, businesses and big establishments don’t have to worry about the traditional Storage Area Networks (SANs), which are expensive to build and maintain.
Cloud storage has become a necessity for both individuals and businesses in recent times. With the different available options such as Google Drive, iCloud and Dropbox, backing up vital data has become easy. Some people even choose to create and configure their cloud server environment.
Best Low-cost Cloud Storage Providers
Picking the best cloud storage provider for your business or personal use can be a bit tough, mainly because there are various options available in the market. The demand for this service has brought about exponential growth in the number of cloud providers offering similar features.
Typically, Cloud storage services come with either personal cloud storage or business storage plans, but some providers offer both plans for users. Many service providers also offer a free cloud storage feature alongside their premium package.
It is essential to look out for the price, features and security of any cloud storage service before picking. Differences in these aspects will be dependent on the provider. Here are some of the best and affordable cloud storage providers available to you.
Google One Google One comes with google photos, Google Drive and workspace. The two cloud storage platforms that come with this provider are Google Photos and Google Drive.
Google Photos stores, edits and syncs photos and videos. This platform also comes with an inbuilt photo editor and offers the option to share and sync your pictures across your devices.
Google Drive is a cloud storage platform that allows you to backup your data. It works as a cloud storage platform and includes apps like Google Photos, Sheets, Slides and Docs, which all make up your Google Workspace.
Google Drive comes with up to 15GB worth of storage space free of charge. If you eventually need more storage space, then you will have to go for their paid plans. The features that come with this provider include
- 15GB free storage
- Paid plans— starting at $1.99/month for 100GB, up to $299.99/month for 30TB
- File syncing
- End-to-end encryption
- Unlimited number of devices
Pros - Authentic and easy-to-use cloud syncing - Free 15GB cloud storage
Cons - Complex UI - Physical recovery drives unavailable
IDrive Cloud Storage IDrive is one of the best premium cloud storage providers available today. It offers features that are suitable for different functions, has packages for both business and personal use. It is also a very secure option.
IDrive works well with most types of files, making it a handy tool for backing up many forms of creative work. You can store your jpg images, PDFs and text documents using iDrive. However, this provider doesn’t come with the option to edit your documents online.
IDrive’s Business plans are significantly more expensive but support unlimited users and unlimited servers, computers, and databases. Prices start at $149.62 a year for 500GB of storage and range up to $8,699.62 a year for 50TB.
IDrive is not only one of the most affordable cloud-storage options but also comes with great features for you or your business
- Free 5GB storage
- Paid plans— $79.50 for 5TB or $99.50 for 10TB
- 25% off for your first year
- End-to-end encryption
- File syncing
Pros - Simple UI - Compatible with almost any device or OS
Cons - Poor file editing and sharing - Two-factor authentication unavailable
Backblaze Backblaze is designed only for single devices. If you have a ton of data to back up, but only on a single device, then this provider may be the right option for you.
With Backblaze, you get unlimited data plus external hard drives every month for as low as $6, whether you’re using Mac or PC. However, this provider doesn’t come with features that allow you to sync your data across different devices.
If you lose your data and need to restore your files, you can quickly request that Backblaze mail you a hard drive with your data on it. Better yet, the Backblaze software comes with an inbuilt tracker in case your device ever gets lost or stolen.
Pros - Pocket-Friendly price - Unlimited storage
Cons - No data encryption - Only usable on one device
Reliable Cloud Storage Services for You
Google Cloud and Google Drive
Google Cloud and Google Drive are two different products under google. Most people assume these products are the same, but this is not entirely true.
While these two services share some similarities, knowing the differences will help you understand which option to pick when you’re looking for a cloud storage service that will be well suited to your needs.
The differences between these two options are in the areas of pricing, security level and other features.
Google Drive Google Drive is a storage platform that allows you to backup all kinds of files and documents and sync them across different devices. It incorporates your Google Workspace consisting of Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides.
Google Drive comes with free 15GB storage space, but if you need more space for your business, then you’ll need to upgrade to the G Suite.
Google Workspace or G Suite comes in different packages.
— Basic Business Package $6/month per user for 30GB 24/7 online support Documents, spreadsheets and presentations
— Standard Business Package $12/month per user for 2TB eDiscovery for files and emails Cloud search and smart search across G Suite
— Premium Business Package $18/month per user for 5TB Better management controls, upgraded security, including vault.
Pros - Simple and easy-to-use UI - Easy file editing and sharing - Cons - Google examines your data - Internet connection needed
Google Cloud Google Cloud is an online storage option that allows you to store data on the Google Cloud Platform (GCP). The features that come with this option make it a better choice for developers and enterprises. Its improved security uses OAuth protocol, and it’s capable of handling more considerable data demands such as server backup and hosting.
Google Cloud also allows you to resume uploads in the case of weak or broken disconnection. This option is more of a server-based alternative than a cloud-based option like Google Drive.
Furthermore, with Google Cloud, you only pay for what you use. There are no upfront fees or monthly subscription plans. How much you spend will depend on services and usage. Different features come with other pricing structures. There’s the free trial option, so you know what features are available to you.
Pros - Highly secure and durable - Available to users in many regions
Cons - Web interface is not easy to navigate - High costs to download data from the cloud storage
Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365, formerly known as office 365, is a Microsoft cloud storage service that offers an array of cloud-based software that you can access around the globe. This service covers the use of Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Microsoft 365 also offers plans for business settings with cloud-based services such as Skype, Microsoft Exchange, and Sharepoint. Users with Microsoft Office pay a subscription fee to have access to these cloud-based services.
Microsoft 365 offers various subscription plans at different prices and with distinct features, meant for users with different needs and demands. These plans include
— Microsoft 365 Personal For personal, home or noncommercial use Includes access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher, OneNote, Access 1 TB of cloud storage Advanced security $6.99/month or $69.99/year
— Microsoft 365 Family Available for up to 6 users or on six devices $9.99/month
— Microsoft 365 Business Basic Provides access to Microsoft Exchange and SharePoint Online versions of Word, Outlook, Excel, OneNote, PowerPoint Mobile App $5/user/month
— Microsoft 365 Apps for Business Provides Office apps for Mac and Windows Mobile platforms on tablets, smartphones and computers for up to 5 users $8.25/user/month
— Microsoft 365 Business Standard 1 TB secure cloud storage per user Great connectivity $12.50/user/month
— Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise Provides access to the Office Professional Plus apps on up to 5 devices Monthly updates $12.00/user/month
— Microsoft 365 for Enterprise For use in enterprise settings Provides access to all office apps Legal compliance features and support $32/user/month
Writer’s Remarks
No one option will suit everyone’s needs. Different cloud storage services offer various features at varying prices for a reason. Whatever choice you make should be an informed decision. Before picking any service provider, take your time to study and understand the available options, and then go for the one tailored to suit your demands.