The Best Cloud Backup Services for Your Computer and Photos
Backblaze, IDrive, iCloud and Google One compared. Real backup vs cloud sync, prices per computer and which service fits a family or small office.
A cloud backup service copies your files to secure servers automatically, so a dead laptop, a stolen bag or ransomware doesn't take your photos and work with it. It's the "off-site" copy in the 3-2-1 backup rule.
Backup vs sync: an important difference
- Cloud sync (iCloud Drive, Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox) keeps folders identical across devices. Delete a file on your laptop, and it's deleted everywhere.
- Cloud backup (Backblaze, IDrive) keeps a separate copy, often with older versions, so you can go back in time even after deleting or ransomware.
Sync is convenient. Backup is safer. Many people use both.
Quick picks
- One computer, simplest possible: Backblaze
- Several devices or a family: IDrive
- All-Apple household: iCloud+
- Android and Google users: Google One
Backblaze: set it and forget it
Backblaze backs up everything on one computer, including connected external drives, with no storage limit, for about $99 a year. Install it, and it quietly runs in the background.
When disaster strikes, you can download individual files, restore everything or even have your data shipped to you on a drive.
Best for: anyone who wants one computer fully protected with zero effort.
IDrive: best for multiple devices
IDrive covers unlimited devices (computers, phones, tablets) under one storage allowance. The 5 TB personal plan typically costs around $70 for the first year in promotions and about $100 a year at standard renewal. Check current pricing; IDrive runs frequent deals.
Best for: families or freelancers with several computers.
iCloud+: easiest on Apple devices
If everyone in your home uses iPhone and Mac, iCloud+ is the path of least resistance: iPhone backups, iCloud Photos and Desktop and Documents syncing, shared with family. Remember it's mostly sync, so add Time Machine for proper versioned backups of your Mac.
Google One: best for Android and Google users
Google One storage covers Google Photos, Drive and Android device backups. Plans now bundle Gemini AI features at some tiers. See Google Drive vs Dropbox vs OneDrive.
Comparison
| What it backs up | Price (approx.) | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backblaze |
One computer, unlimited data | $99/yr | Simplicity |
| IDrive | Unlimited devices, 5 TB | ~$70 first year, ~$100/yr after | Families, many devices |
| iCloud+ |
Apple devices, photos | Monthly plans | Apple households |
| Google One |
Android, Google Photos, Drive | Monthly plans | Google users |
Make sure it actually works
- Check the first backup finishes. It can take days for large photo libraries.
- Restore one file after a week to prove it works.
- Keep your encryption key or password safe if you set a private one. Lose it, and nobody can recover your data, including the company.
