The many benefits of using cloud storage are still grossly underutilized by the many individuals that possess mobile devices.
There is a significant number of people that do not know what cloud storage is and then a handful of others that do not believe that in its security in handling personal files.
Also, with so many people working virtually, there is the likelihood that the increasing data demand would fast consume any existing storage space on your laptops or mobile devices resulting in the need for additional storage space.
Cloud storage enables users to save files on remote storage systems where it is maintained, managed, backed up and made available to users over an internet network.
Amongst the very many cloud storage providers, the most popular are iCloud, Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox with a variety of features that many users get confused over.
The following sections will be reviewing some of their key features to help determine what works best for you.
iCloud: Apple iCloud is a storage service exclusive to IOS device users with auto-backup to iCloud and it is available on Web, Mac, iOS, and Windows platforms.
Files can easily be retrieved from iCloud at any time with your Apple ID.
Free storage:
5GB available to all users
Paid storage monthly plans:
50GB- $0.99
200GB- $2.99
2TB- $9.99
Google Drive (Google One): Google drive has been rated as the most widely used cloud storage in the world since its release in 2012. It is available in over 60 languages and provides seamless support for Google docs, sheets, photos, and other Google products. Google also allows for shared storage with a maximum of five family members with the additional google photo app cloud storage available to all mobile devices.
Free storage:
15GB available to all users
Paid storage monthly plans:
100GB- $1.99
200GB- $2.99
2TB- $9.99
10TB- $99.99
OneDrive: Microsoft OneDrive is a default system feature in Windows 10 devices and just like Google drive, it allows for storage, document editing, and collaboration across Microsoft apps and Office 365 Online.
Free storage:
5GB available to all users
Paid storage monthly plans
50GB- $1.99
Higher storage plans are exclusive to Office 365 users
100GB- $1.99
1TB- $6.99 (plus Office suite for 1 PC, 1 mobile)
1TB- $9.99 (same as above, but for five users)
Dropbox: Dropbox came as the first cloud storage platform and is compatible with every device or platform.
Regardless of how long it has been in existence, it’s still known for the speed, reliability, and user-friendly features.
It is also available in over ten languages.
However, only the professional plan will allow for smart sync.
Free storage:
2GB available to all users (Basic)
Paid storage monthly plans:
1TB- $9.99 (Plus)
2TB- $19.99 (Professional)