File syncing and storage services, also known as cloud storage services, offer major convenience. They let you back up and access your data—documents, photos, video, and other file types—on any compatible device with an internet connection. Some even allow multiple people to edit files simultaneously, which is a huge plus when working with several collaborators. PCMag has been testing and reviewing cloud storage services for more than 15 years. We rate them based on ease of use, reliability, platforms, extra features, and price. Microsoft OneDrive is our top pick overall, earning our Editors' Choice award and a rare five-star rating. However, many other compelling choices are available depending on your needs and budget, so read on for the best cloud storage services we've tested.
Overview
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Best OverallMicrosoft OneDrive
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Best Privacy and SecurityProton Drive
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Best for Google Workspace UsersGoogle Drive
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Best PriceIDrive
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Best for Simple, Straightforward SyncingSync
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Best for Apple UsersApple iCloud Drive
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Best for IntegrationsBox
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Best for Useful Extra ToolsDropbox
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Credit: Microsoft
![Microsoft OneDrive]()
Best OverallMicrosoft OneDrive
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
OneDrive is a terrific storage and syncing option for nearly anyone who wants to backup files to the cloud, and its functionality and design have achieved a level of top-tier usability and reliability. The cost is more than reasonable, considering you get 5GB of storage for free and much more by paying for Microsoft 365 (starting at $9.95 per month), which includes Office apps.
Who It's For
Businesses that use Microsoft 365: Businesses using Microsoft 365 apps, including the online versions, can leverage the integrated OneDrive for storage and syncing. Windows users in particular will be delighted that their Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders are safely backed up to the cloud and automatically restored when they set up a new Windows PC.
Specs & Configurations
Android App Emphasis Office Apps File Size Limit 250GB File Versioning Free Storage 5GB iOS App Online Editing Windows App Learn More Microsoft OneDrive Review -
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Credit: Proton
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Best Privacy and SecurityProton Drive
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Proton Drive offers the best security of the cloud storage and file-sharing services we've tested, as it adheres to strict Swiss privacy laws. Your data is fully encrypted at rest and in transit, and only you have the security key to unlock it. Even Proton employees are unable to access your files. You can even pay the company by sending cash through the mail, rather than using a credit card online, to protect your identity.
Who's It For?
People who value privacy and security: Proton Drive is ideal if you don't want snooping eyes looking at your data. You won't get many extras (like spreadsheet or presentation editing) or speedy uploads (all that encryption comes with a performance hit), but that sacrifice comes with peace of mind.
Specs & Configurations
Android App Emphasis Privacy File Size Limit Unlimited File Versioning Free Storage 5GB iOS App Online Editing Windows App Learn More Proton Drive Review -
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Credit: Google
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Best for Google Workspace UsersGoogle Drive
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Google Drive offers robust file-sharing capabilities, and you receive more free storage space than many competitors—15GB, although this space is shared with Gmail. If you opt for Google Drive, consider investing in a Google One account. It's a subscription plan that includes many extras, such as additional cloud storage (starting at $1.99 per month for 100GB), phone and chat support, and a VPN service. It's rare and convenient to get that package bundled all together at a low price.
Who It's For
Google Docs users: It's the no-brainer choice if you regularly work in Google's many online office apps. After all, a created Google document or spreadsheet automatically saves to Google Drive, so you don't need to look for another service.
Businesses requiring app integrations: Google Drive integrates well with numerous third-party online apps, including Slack and Zoom, allowing you to create and share documents directly from within those tools.
Specs & Configurations
Android App Emphasis Full service file storage, sharing, syncing, and collaboration File Size Limit 5TB File Versioning Free Storage 15GB iOS App Online Editing Windows App Learn More Google Drive Review -
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Credit: IDrive
![IDrive]()
Best PriceIDrive
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
IDrive is a cloud storage and file-syncing service with a bevy of features. For example, you can set IDrive to back up files to an external hard drive or a network drive, or create a complete disk image (although the latter option is limited to the Windows version).
Who It's For
Budget-minded businesses: Cloud storage doesn't get much cheaper than this. The IDrive Mini plan offers 200GB of storage for an incredibly low annual price of $2.99.
Companies needing data recovery: IDrive's archiving and continuous backup features are crucial when disaster strikes, ensuring you can always find your files, even if you've deleted them.
Specs & Configurations
Android App Emphasis Backup File Sharing File Size Limit 2GB File Versioning Folder Syncing Free Storage 10GB iOS App Number of Computers (Base Plan) Unlimited Private Key Encryption Storage (Base Plan) 100GB Versions Kept 30 Versions Period Unlimited Windows App Learn More IDrive Review -
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Credit: Sync
![Sync]()
Best for Simple, Straightforward SyncingSync
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Sync is a reliable tool for storing your files online and syncing them across multiple devices. Not only is it easy to use (and includes 5GB of storage with free accounts), but it also has apps on nearly every major platform: Sync works on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and the web. It's not available on Linux, but workarounds are available.
Who It's For
People who want simple cloud storage: Sync is basic; it won't dazzle you with a deep feature set. Instead, it's the service to turn to if you prefer simplicity over a features glut—or you'd rather not store your files with one of the big tech giants.
Businesses: Despite its relatively no-frills nature, Sync offers welcome business-friendly features, including client-side encryption for enhanced security and no file size limitations for large uploads.
Specs & Configurations
Android App Emphasis Simplicity, Ease of Use File Size Limit Unlimited File Versioning Free Storage 5GB iOS App Windows App Learn More Sync Review -
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Credit: Apple
![Apple iCloud Drive]()
Best for Apple UsersApple iCloud Drive
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Unsurprisingly, iCloud Drive is a must-have for Apple users, as it backs up photos, documents, and settings across your devices with ease. If the free 5GB storage capacity isn't enough, you can upgrade to iCloud+ (starting at $0.99 per month for 50GB of storage).
Who It's For
Apple fans: On Apple hardware, iCloud Drive is seamlessly integrated into the operating system. As a result, it's ideal for iPad, iPhone, and Mac users who prefer not to worry about manually backing up and syncing their files. Just set and forget.
People with multiple online accounts: iCloud Drive features a password manager called Keychain. Enable it, and you can sync passwords across devices—even to Windows computers, courtesy of a browser extension.
Specs & Configurations
Emphasis Apple Device Users File Size Limit 15GB Free Storage 5GB iOS App Online Editing Windows App Learn More Apple iCloud Drive Review -
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Credit: Box
![Box]()
Best for IntegrationsBox
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Although Box isn't highly competitive in terms of price, it offers more than 1,500 integrations with other services, including Microsoft Teams and Slack. In a nice touch, Box opens Adobe Creative Suite, CAD, and other files using the Box Tools desktop app.
Who It's For
Free users: Box's free version includes a generous 10GB of storage and a 5GB individual file limit. That's enough space for people who frequently work with documents and spreadsheets, not large multimedia files.
Businesses: Need more features? You should check out Box for Business, which includes a whiteboarding tool, enhanced security, and unlimited storage with most plans.
Specs & Configurations
Android App Emphasis Individuals File Size Limit 5GB File Versioning Free Storage 10GB iOS App Online Editing Windows App Learn More Box Review -
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Credit: Dropbox
![Dropbox]()
Best for Useful Extra ToolsDropbox
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Dropbox is a well-established player in the online storage and syncing space, offering both free and paid plans. With the free tier, you get 2GB of storage and the ability to install the Dropbox app on three devices. With the paid tiers (starting at $11.99 per month or $119.88 per year for Plus), you get terabytes of storage and no device limitations.
Who It's For
People who need a large toolset: Dropbox offers more than just cloud storage and file-syncing features. You can use it to edit documents online, take screenshots, record your screen, manage passwords, and apply e-signatures.
Businesses: Dropbox App Center lets you install integrations that enhance the app's functionality. For example, you can share Dropbox files in Gmail conversations or automatically send files to folders using IFTTT or Zapier.
Specs & Configurations
Android App Emphasis Customization File Size Limit Unlimited File Versioning Free Storage 2GB iOS App Online Editing Windows App Learn More Dropbox Review -
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Best For | Best Overall | Best Privacy and Security | Best for Google Workspace Users | Best Price | Best for Simple, Straightforward Syncing | Best for Apple Users | Best for Integrations | Best for Useful Extra Tools | Best Overall | Best Privacy and Security | Best for Google Workspace Users |
Emphasis | Office Apps | Privacy | Full service file storage, sharing, syncing, and collaboration | Backup | Simplicity, Ease of Use | Apple Device Users | Individuals | Customization | Office Apps | Privacy | Full service file storage, sharing, syncing, and collaboration |
File Size Limit | 250GB | Unlimited | 5TB | 2GB | Unlimited | 15GB | 5GB | Unlimited | 250GB | Unlimited | 5TB |
Free Storage | 5GB | 5GB | 15GB | 10GB | 5GB | 5GB | 10GB | 2GB | 5GB | 5GB | 15GB |
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Buying Guide: The Best Cloud Storage and File-Sharing Services for 2026
What Can Cloud Storage Do for You?
The best cloud storage services integrate nicely with other apps and online tools, making the experience of viewing and editing files stored online feel natural. You want the other software you use to be able to access your content, so it's important that you select a service that integrates easily with your existing tools.
(Credit: Google/PCMag)The various cloud storage services specialize in different areas. For example, Dropbox focuses on keeping a synced folder on all your compatible devices and sharing folders with colleagues outside your company. Proton Drive emphasizes highly secure cloud storage. If you primarily store images, you may want a storage service that specializes in photo hosting (the two top options are Adobe Lightroom and Google Photos, both available through a Google One account). Some cloud storage providers, such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft, are generalists, offering features like folder and file syncing, media playback, and backup. These products serve as collaboration software, enabling multiple people to edit the same file in real time.
Distinct from cloud storage are backup services, particularly those that create online backups. For example, Acronis Cyber Protect specializes in data protection and recovery, while IDrive combines data protection with syncing and sharing capabilities.
Most cloud services provide some form of backup as part of their intended function. Files uploaded to a cloud service are also protected against disk failures, as multiple copies are stored in the cloud. However, some dedicated backup services can create a full disk image of your PC, allowing you to restore everything, including system settings and programs. Syncing, by contrast, is about backing up and managing specific files (documents, images, and so on).
(Credit: Box/PCMag)What Is the 'Cloud' in Cloud Storage?
There's a half-joke in the tech world: "There is no cloud. It's just someone else's computer." To clear up any confusion, the cloud part of cloud-based storage refers to storing files somewhere other than your computer's hard drive. Usually, it means the service provider's servers.
Having data in the cloud lets you access your files online. The data is usually encrypted before it travels over the internet to the provider's servers, and it remains encrypted while it resides there. Well-designed services don't upload new file copies every time you make a change. Instead, the file syncing service looks for changes and uploads only them.
(Credit: Dropbox/PCMag)You can access your cloud files through an app or utility software installed on your computer. Once it's installed, the software typically displays a small notification icon and creates a synced folder structure that integrates seamlessly with Windows Explorer or the macOS Finder. You can also access files via a web browser. Of course, you need an internet connection for it to work. But if you are temporarily without a connection, that's OK. The cloud service waits until you have a connection again, then takes care of business. For a deeper explanation, see our explainer on cloud computing.
Free vs. Paid Cloud Storage
Many services give you free cloud storage as part of their entry-level accounts. They usually come with limitations, such as storage file size caps. We encourage you to sign up for the free tier of cloud storage to test the service before committing to a paid account. That way, you can fully integrate the cloud service into your life for real-world testing.
(Credit: Microsoft/PCMag)What could possibly go wrong? Human error accounts for many cloud storage tragedies, but dropped internet connections are another common troublemaker—not to mention that every internet service suffers occasional outages. Ask around (or just look through our review comments), and you'll hear sad stories of how cloud storage can go wrong. One of the benefits of paying for an account is that it usually includes additional support from the provider, so if anything goes wrong, someone from the company can help you resolve the issue.
There are many other reasons to pay for cloud storage, from getting a lot more space (a terabyte doesn't cost all that much anymore) to being able to upload huge files. That last benefit is particularly relevant to graphic designers, video editors, and other visual artists who often work with enormous files. Other benefits of paying for cloud storage include increased access to file version history (enabling you to restore an important business proposal to its original version before your colleague made numerous erroneous changes), enhanced security, and additional collaboration and teamwork features.
Jill Duffy and Michael Muchmore contributed to this article.