Top 10 Cloud Storage Services Recommended by iProVPN
Cloud storage has made data storage easier, whether you want to save for personal data like memorable images or other media. If you want to save your business-related things, then storing data in the cloud is the best option; No need to stress on your data loss anymore. It is a lot better than storing data in a USB or a hard drive, which can even get misplaced sometimes. Cloud storage automatically backs up your data, so if you didn’t save the work or the power goes off, your data is still saved securely in the cloud storage.
There are a lot of options for cloud applications that you can utilize; however, knowing the best one is a bit tricky. In this article, you will know about the best cloud storage applications, some of which are free and allow you to pay a subscription fee as well if you have huge data in Terabytes. The listed applications are considered to be the best cloud storage
What is Cloud Storage?
Before talking about the detailed list of cloud applications, first, you should have a basic understanding of the cloud. IT means saving data on the remote servers, which are operated by the organizations of Google, Microsoft, or Amazon. As mentioned in the introduction, it is difficult to save a USB safely, so keeping your data on the device you use makes it easier to access it anytime. The servers are spread across the data centers, which are huge and where files are saved securely.
Working of Cloud Storage
Here is the stepwise working of a cloud-based storage:
Upload data
First step is to select a file, a document, or any media to a cloud service that you are using, which can be any of the cloud service providers.
Request to the server
Once you select a file to upload, it requests a server that is in the data center of the cloud application’s organization that is in use.
The server saves data
When your data is transferred to the server, it stores your data in the storage in data centers. This storage uses hard drives, which are much faster and stronger.
Files are copied to several locations
To keep your data secure for a long time, the cloud makes multiple copies of the files in different data centers located worldwide.
Easy to access data
Even when you need your oldest file stored in the cloud, just log in to your cloud device, and the cloud server will get your data from the data center and provide you over the internet.
What are the cloud storage models?
It is the way that your data is stored in the cloud, the way your data is managed and shared. There are four types included in this model, which are as listed:
- Public Cloud
- Private Cloud
- Hybrid Cloud
- Shared Cloud
Public Cloud
In this type of model, a company stores its data with third-party cloud storage providers on their servers. Your data is stored with many other users’ data on the same server, and the resources, including storage capacity, processing power, are shared among the users and the companies. It is effective in cost-saving, also it is true that data is stored together with other users’ data. However, it is protected with strong encryption methods, which keep your data secure.
Who uses the Public Cloud?
Individual users or companies looking to save costs for data storage use this model, also it is ideal for smaller businesses.
Private Cloud
This storage model applies to companies that store their data on dedicated cloud servers. These dedicated servers do not store other users’ or companies’ data, which means resources aren’t shared among other users. The storage capacity is solely for the companies that are using the private cloud storage service. The organization that uses its storage server can customize it according to the level of needs.
Who uses the Private Cloud?
Large organizations that want to keep up with the greater security and want full control of customization for data storage, the private cloud is perfect for them.
Hybrid Cloud
Hybrid cloud is a model that uses both public and private cloud services. In which less secure data is kept in the public cloud, whereas the data that requires more security is stored in the private cloud. This model offers you the best security and is value for money.
Who uses the Hybrid cloud?
Banks and tech-based companies mainly use a hybrid cloud model, also it is used in healthcare and government agencies.
Multi cloud
In multicloud-type companies, use private cloud and public cloud from separate providers, and cloud service providers according to the best tools they are getting from different providers. It also helps in backing up data if one cloud service gets into an issue, the other one can back it up easily, so there’s no chance of data unavailability.
Who uses a multi-cloud?
It is also used by tech companies, large enterprises, e-commerce businesses, and more.
List of the Best Cloud Storage Applications
Here is the list of the top 10 cloud storage applications
Quick Cloud Storage Apps Comparisons
| Cloud Storage Service | Free Storage | Compatibility with other OS | Backup Devices | Ideal feature |
| Google Drive | 15 GB | Yes | PC & Phone | Instant collaboration |
| One drive | 5 GB | Yes | PC & Phone | Integrated with MS Office |
| Dropbox | 2 GB | Yes | PC & Phone | Smart synchronization |
| icloud | 5 GB | Yes | All Apple devices | Back up all images and data seamlessly |
| IDrive | 10 GB | Yes | PC & Phone | Quick backup |
| Box | 10 GB | Yes | PC & Phone | Best for business collaboration |
| pCloud | 10 GB | Yes | PC & Phone | Lifetime plan |
| Koofr | 10 GB | Yes | PC & Phone | Easily sync with other cloud storage. |
| Tresorit | 3 GB | Yes | PC & Phone | Has GDPR compliance certification |
| Tera box | 1 TB | Yes | Android devices | Generous storage of 1TB for free |
How to Evaluate the Cloud Storage Providers?
Here are the factors you can evaluate the storage providers, and based on these, you can decide to select the cloud provider for your use.
Storage
Checking out the storage is the major factor, as you want to store everything, including your photos, documents, and other media files. And if you have to use it for your business, then you may require extra and large storage capacity in Terabytes. Although cloud storage companies do provide free storage that’s perfect for personal use but for enterprise-level use you need to get the paid plan to get the increased storage.
Pricing
It’s another factor to check for, if a service is costing you less and providing you with more storage. Then, using it and paying monthly isn’t a good idea, since most of the storage will be wasted. Some always go for the lower cost, but also check out the features the service is offering, and whether it is justifiable or not at the given price.
Security
Always check that your security isn’t compromised, make that it is providing you with end-to-end encryption that uses encryption protocols like TLS and SSL. Those files are kept safe during data transmission. Moreover, look more for the features including permission access to other users while sharing the file. If you gaining your information from the service provider, make sure it is a reputable company or not.
Accessibility
Then check for the accessibility of how many devices it is compatible with. Should be compatible with the major devices and operating systems. A good platform allows you to access your files from anywhere and anytime, sometimes while traveling, you don’t have an internet connection, and want to view a document. with offline accessibility, you can view it easily.
Best Cloud Storage Applications
In this part of the article, we have listed the best cloud storage applications that have been trusted for a long time and provide users an ease in storing their personal or business data securely. There are the new ones too, which have made a good reputation in storing data in the cloud.
1) Google Drive
Number on the list, since owned by Google and providing the best cloud storage packages to users for personal and business use. It is also integrated with your Google Workspace. If you use Google Docs, Sheets, or any Google service, it will automatically save to your Google Drive. To access your files from another device, you just need to log in to your Google account, and you can easily access your files from anywhere on your Google Drive.
What makes Google Drive the best?
With Google, everything is connected, so you don’t need to leave Google to make alterations to your files. Make it easier to collaborate and work on the files.
Pros of using Google Drive
- Free data storage for 15 GB.
- Make files organized in folders.
- Can add 2 Factor Authentication.
- Compatible with multiple devices.
- Uses SSL encryption for data security.
- Share a file with a link that allows permissions.
Cons of using Google Drive
- Glitches in Syncing data.
- Google collects users’ data.
- Limits on file size uploading.
- Must need an internet connection.
- For more storage, a subscription is required.
- Proper setup, a mistake can make files public.
Pricing Plan
Here is the pricing plan for Google Drive.
| Free | Basic | Standard | AI Premium |
| $1.99/month | $2.99/month | $9.99/month | |
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2) OneDrive
OneDrive is the best cloud storage application for businesses and schools. It is extensively compatible with Windows, and also works well on Mac and iOS devices. Why is it a reliable application for students? It has all the Microsoft applications, including MS Word, Excel, and PPT. Signing in to a new device with your Microsoft account will restore your PS icons and synchronize Microsoft 365 documents.
What makes OneDrive the best?
The best thing about OneDrive is its smooth integration with all Microsoft services, and it uses smart syncing, which means it only updates the part that is changed.
Pros of using OneDrive
- Control over file authorization.
- Easily accessible on any device.
- With “File on Demand,” save storage on your device.
- No limit on file or folder size for upload and sharing.
- Set the bandwidth speed for uploading and downloading files.
- Uses high security standards to keep files secure during transmission and storage.
Cons of using OneDrive
- Microsoft controls encryption, it can access data if asked by the law.
- When the license ends, data is stored for only 30 to 90 days.
- Syncing issues due to long file paths and special characters.
- Affects performance when syncing files over 250 GB.
- Offers 5GB for free; for more storage, get a paid subscription.
- An unstable internet connection might slow down the file transmissions.
Pricing Plan
Here is the pricing plan for OneDrive.
| Free | Basic | Family |
| $1.99 /month | $9.99 /month | |
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3) Dropbox
Dropbox is an old cloud storage application; however, it has a lot of new advanced features that it is still used by many. And is an effective service for remote teams and businesses. It offers features that make it the best cloud storage service, including signatures on documents, watermarking on your images, which is best for photographers. Also, you can edit PDFs on Dropbox, which is one of the most reliable tools for professionals working in different fields.
What makes Dropbox the best?
DropBox is the best choice for editors, as it contains a lot of editing features that some cloud storage providers don’t provide.
Pros of using Dropbox
- E-signatures on digital files.
- Can get more storage after paying.
- Offline accessibility to the paid version.
- Backup data automatically in cloud servers.
- Available on all operating systems and devices.
- Best for students to keep presentations and papers.
Cons of using Dropbox
- Limited search options.
- Has limited editing options.
- Limited storage on free plans.
- Limited plans for viewing history.
- Complex in understanding the new features.
- More storage requires an expensive subscription plan.
Pricing Plan
Here is the pricing plan for Dropbox.
| Basic | Plus | Professional |
| Free | $11.99 /month | $19.99 /month |
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4) iCloud
Just like Google Drive is built into Android devices, iCloud is built into all Apple devices. You can store all types of data in this cloud storage app. iCloud has become a major part of Apple as it makes file sharing and data storage, and it also helps in finding your Apple device if it gets lost somewhere. Being the best cloud service provider, it is available on Windows and Microsoft Outlook. On Windows, you need to install iCloud and add your Apple ID.
What makes iCloud the best?
iCloud uses advanced data security, which keeps your data fully secured in cloud-based storage.
Pros of using iCloud
- Has top-notch security.
- Has an easy-to-use interface.
- Allows sharing folders with others.
- Instantly backup your photos once taken.
- Automatically back up data rather than a manual backup.
- Access iCloud from any Apple device without transferring data to your PC.
Cons of using iCloud
- Can’t operate on Android devices.
- Need a stable internet connection.
- More space utilization, if shared storage.
- Couldn’t edit documents, need other apps.
- Offers only 5GB, and you pay for more storage.
- The weak network can take time to download or share files.
Pricing Plan
Here is the pricing plan for iCloud
| iCloud | iCloud+ 50GB | iCloud+ 12TB |
| Free | $0.99/month | $59.99/month |
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iCloud also provides data storage for 200 GB, 2TB, and 6TB for pricing of $2.99, $9.99, $29.99. All have the best cloud storage capacity to store huge data.
5) IDrive
This is another best cloud storage platform; it is used to backup data and for storage. The thing that makes it different from other cloud-based storage apps is that once you delete a file from the cloud, it is not removed until you manually delete a file. With the new features came IDrive, which includes editing and sharing Microsoft files to IDrive, it is less and a better alternative for OneDrive. If you want to use Microsoft Office tools on a browser.
What makes IDrive the best?
Uses the hybrid model as it has a mix of features of storage and data backup.
Pros of using IDrive
- Instant customer support.
- Has a fast uploading speed.
- Supports 2 Factor Authentication.
- Can create accounts with no limits.
- Keep your data completely encrypted.
- Can be used as an extension on a Google or Microsoft account.
Cons of using IDrive
- Do not sync data in real time.
- Need to delete files manually.
- It is not compatible with Linux.
- Transfer of file speed may vary.
- Backing up data may take time.
- Graphical User Interface is a bit old school.
Pricing plan
Here is the pricing plan for IDrive
| Free | Mini Pricing | Personal Pricing | Team Pricing |
| $2.95 yearly, $9.95 yearly | $9.95/month, $99.95/month | $9.95/month, $999.95 | |
| Offers 10GB for free. | Ranging storage from 100GB to 500GB | Ranging storage from 5TB to 100TB | Ranging storage from 5TB to 500TB |
6) Box
It is the best cloud storage service for large organizations, not suitable for individual use. There are options from which you can create notes and a virtual canvas, which you can use to share ideas with your team. Box also lets you do signatures on documents. It is best because it has more than 1500 applications, making teamwork more productive. There is an option for comments on files, which can be used by anyone.
What makes Box the best?
Offers great storage and security for large enterprises. As an admin, you can control the file permissions.
Pros of using Box
- Have great admin controls.
- Create unlimited accounts.
- Highly secure platform for data storage.
- Straightforward interface to upload files.
- The operating system is integrated closely.
- Whiteboard integration makes it easier to collaborate with a team.
Cons of using Box
- It can be a bit costly for some.
- Tricky to explore options if new to Box.
- A stable internet connection is required.
- For more storage, you need to purchase a plan.
- Sometimes, large files can’t be downloaded properly.
- Internet speed might be affected while downloading large files.
Pricing plan
Here is the pricing plan for Box.
| Business | Business Plus | Enterprise | Enterprise Plus |
| $17.30 per user/month | $28.70 per user/month | $40.30 per user/month | $57.50 per user/month |
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7) pCloud
pCloud now also has a dedicated Mac app that performs much better, and it is simple to sync and organize your cloud folders as if they were regular folders on your Mac. It instantly backs up your data, so you may not need to check it again and worry about data backup, which is one of the best cloud storage features in this platform. Among the reliable cloud storage providers, it also lets you purchase a lifetime subscription, which keeps you away from the hassle of paying monthly.
What makes pCloud the best?
One of the best cloud storage features it has is restoring the old versioned file if deleted for 15 days in the free version, and for 30 days in the paid version.
Pros of using pCloud
- Uses a strong encryption protocol.
- Backup all your data into cloud storage.
- Easy to store files from other platforms
- It has a user-friendly interface and design.
- Straightforward sharing of files with others.
- Provides 10GB of free storage, best for personal usage.
Cons of using pCloud
- Cannot edit documents.
- Not much integrated with other OS.
- Sometimes this platform gets slower.
- An extensive file history is a paid feature.
- Sometimes, syncing issues come up.
- Advanced features are not available on free versions.
Pricing Plan
Here is the pricing plan for pCloud.
| Free | Premium plan (Get any) | Family (Get Any) |
| Monthly payment | One-time payment | |
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8) Koofr
Koofr is an ideal option for users requiring additional free storage without subscribing to it. You can add multiple accounts to have a huge storage pool. In the basic package, it offers 10GB of storage, which is more than enough for individual usage. You don’t need to back up your images and other data manually, but it will do it on’s own automatically.
What makes Koofr the best?
It ensures GDPR compliance and keeps your data highly secure in cloud storage.
Pros of using Koofr
- It is an efficient platform.
- Provides a freemium version.
- Compatible with every device.
- With just a link, share files or folders with others.
- Easy integration with other cloud storage software.
- Ability to recover deleted files in 30 days in the paid version.
Cons of using Koofr
- Lacks uploading files with links.
- Has limited tools for collaboration.
- Customer support isn’t very effective.
- To use the latest features, you need a paid version.
- New users may face difficulty using it for the first time.
- Less popular than other cloud storage service providers.
Pricing Plan
| Free | Briefcase Tier | Suitcase Tier | Crate Tier |
| €0.5/month to €1/month | €2/month, €4/month and €10/month | €10/month, €35/month, €60/month and €120/month | |
| Offers 10 GB of free storage. |
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9) Tresorit
It is the best cloud storage service from Switzerland, and has a focus on encryption of data and storing files on the cloud securely. You can access it from any device from anywhere, just require a Tresorit account, which you can access from any device. It works well for individual users and businesses. Moreover, it also has an application available on the Google Play Store and the App Store.
What makes Tresorit the best?
Has great privacy as there are strict privacy laws for data centers in Switzerland that have to be followed.
Pros of Using Tresorit
- Has 2 Factor Authentication.
- Claims to assist users 24/7.
- One of the best in-store confidential data.
- Provides Integration with Gmail and Outlook.
- Uses Encryption methods of AES-256 encryption and TLS.
- Supported all major OS, including Windows, macOS, and even Linux.
Cons of using Tresorit
- Slow in downloading a file.
- The speed of file syncing is slow.
- Provides limited data storage for free.
- It can be a bit complex to use for newbies.
- More expensive than other cloud storage services.
- More options on mobile to manage videos than on desktop.
Pricing Plan
Here is the pricing plan for Tresorit for personal usage.
| Basic Plan | Personal Lite Plan | Personal Essential plan | Personal Pro plan |
| Free | $5.99/month | $13.99/month | $33.99/month |
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Tresorit also has its business plans and enterprise plans. For the enterprise plan, you need to contact its sales team for a proper customized package.
10) TeraBox
One of the best cloud storage providers, when it is said as the best than it’s because it provides 1TB of cloud storage for free! However, it seems that the pricing plans of TeraBox must be super expensive, with reliable pricing. IT is gaining high popularity in the cloud storage world, with more than 10 million users having downloaded it in just four months. It may seem surreal that TeraBox is giving 1TB for free, also with security for your data with the greatest encryption methods.
What makes TeraBox the best?
Eventually, the best thing is the same as discussed about TeraBox, providing 1TB cloud storage for free.
Pros of using TeraBox
- AI-based image classification and subtitles on videos.
- A user-friendly interface that makes navigation easy.
- Secure file sharing by adding a time limit or a password.
- Well-organized files from documents to other media files.
- Automatically backup your images, videos, and documents.
- Provides excellent customer support for tech, non-tech issues.
Cons of using TeraBox
- Unsafe link redirections.
- Time limit for restoring files.
- Frequent ads show up on the screen.
- The Freemium plan has limitations.
- No encryption in the freemium package.
- Large free storage capacity results in security concerns.
Pricing Plan
Here is the pricing plan for TeraBox.
| Basic plan | Premium Plan |
| Free | $4.99 /month with 50% off, now $3.49 |
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Conclusion
Storing your data on the cloud is important, whether you want to store your images in the form of memories or your business-related documents. If your data is in cloud storage, you can retrieve it from any location, by simply logging on to your account without carrying the data storage hardware device with you at all times. Cloud storage has plenty of benefits, such as data security, no data loss, instant backups, and others.
While selecting a storage service, look up the features it is offering to store data in Terabytes. You will need to directly contact the sales team of that specific cloud-based storage service. Also, if any of the services isn’t available in your region, then don’t forget to use iProVPN for bypassing restrictions and data security.
