Cloud storage has emerged as one of the most convenient and efficient ways to store data online, offering the advantage of accessing information from anywhere. Additionally, it eliminates the need to create backups on physical hard drives or burn backup files onto CDs and DVDs.
Numerous free options are available today, though some cloud storage systems provide limited storage with basic features. To fully leverage this impressive technology, a cloud storage subscription is essential. However, why spend more than necessary? Below, we present the most affordable cloud storage services, enabling you to decide which best suits your needs. We’ve also included their pros and cons to aid your decision-making process.
Table of Contents
Best Cloud Storage Services in 2023
- Google Drive and Google One
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Apple iCloud
- Dropbox
- MediaFire
- MEGA
- pCloud
1. Google Drive and Google One
For users already engaged with Google services like Gmail, Google Drive offers one of the most economical cloud storage options. Upon signing up for a Google Account, you receive up to 15 GB of free cloud storage. If your storage needs don’t involve many large files, this free tier might suffice. Users mainly focused on word-processing documents can benefit from this free storage.
If additional storage is required, upgrading to Google One provides the option to pay for more space. For enthusiasts of Google’s services, a subscription to Google One cloud storage would be a logical progression.
Pros:
- Integration with Google’s word processing and spreadsheet apps.
- Easy synchronization of local files with Google Drive.
- A 15 GB free tier for basic storage needs.
Cons:
- Limited massive storage tiers for high-end users.
- Not the lowest price on our list.
Google Drive Pricing:
- 15 GB for free
- 100 GB for $1.99 per month
- 200 GB for $2.99 per month
- 2 TB for $9.99 per month
2. Microsoft OneDrive
Yet another affordable cloud storage option is from Microsoft. If you are a loyal Microsoft user, and if you already have a subscription to Microsoft 365 Office, you have some storage available already through OneDrive. Microsoft also has standalone storage that can be availed by paying a fee through OneDrive.
The OneDrive service has a desktop app, a mobile app, and a website account that you can use to move your files to the cloud easily and quickly.
Because Microsoft 365 Office is such a popular software, many people already have a subscription to it. This makes using OneDrive for cloud storage a simple and natural extension of Microsoft 365 Office, whether you have a Windows or Macintosh computer.
Pros
- Interface is very easy to use and you can easily figure out OneDrive’s features
- Works well with any device
- It is closely integrated with Microsoft 365 Office
Cons
- May require rearranging your hard drive folder structure for file synching
- Doesn’t offer huge storage tiers for high end users
Pricing
- 100 GB for $1.99 per month
- 1 TB for $6.99 per month (includes a Microsoft 365 Office subscription)
3. Apple iCloud
Like Google, Apple also has many loyal fans who take advantage of all the services Apple has to offer. One of the cheapest cloud storage options is through iCloud among the services provided by the company. For those who only need up to 50 GB of storage, iCloud is priced extremely affordable, making it a great option.
It can work well to serve as a backup storage option for an iPhone or iPad. However, 50 GB will not be enough for those who want to store hundreds of large files. iCloud would be the most natural option for those who already use Apple products.
Pros
- Easy to use and synchronize your files
- 5 GB of free storage for iOS or Mac users
- Compatilbe with Windows
Cons
- No app for Android mobile devices
- Large storage tiers is not availble for high end users
Pricing
- 50 GB for $0.99 per month
- 200 GB for $2.99 per month
- 2 TB for $9.99 per month
4. Dropbox
Dropbox is a cloud storage service that lets you save files online and sync them across your devices. The company has been offering its services to individuals and businesses since 2007.
Dropbox has a tier made for individuals, which gives them 2 TB of data storage. But there is a limit of 2 GB per file while transferring to others. It’s easy to use and features apps and features that work with almost any type of device and operating system.
Pros
- Easy to sync your local hard drive with Dropbox
- Offers support for file collaboration
- Works well across devices
Cons
- Single storage tier options
- Restrictive files size for transfers
Pricing
- 2 TB for $9.99 per month
5. MediaFire
With MediaFire, you get 1TB of storage capacity at the lowest price (per GB of storage). However, it is not the easiest cloud storage option to use. You must use the MediaFire website to pass files from the computer to the cloud storage space. It has a desktop app but it’s a lot less convenient than other cloud storage options.
MediaFire offers a mobile app for its service, so those seeking cloud storage primarily for tablet or smartphone use may get a better advantage from MediaFire than those looking for cloud storage via a laptop or desktop computer.
Pros
- Extremely low price per GB of storage among all
- Mobile app for tablets or smartphones
- File sharing process is simple
Cons
- Security features are not as strong as some others
- No desktop app
Pricing
- 1 TB for $5 per month
6. MEGA
For those who have extremely high cloud storage requirements, MEGA offers subscriptions of up to 16 TB per gigabyte of storage at an extremely desirable price.
Mega has strong security settings, offering encryption of files as they move into and beyond cloud storage systems. Once you’ve created an account, you can try MEGA for free with 50GB of storage, although the free account only offers the most basic features.
Pros
- Low price for high end storage capacity
- Provides 50 GB of free storage
- Encrypts your files while transfering process
Cons
- Lack in many third-party integrations
- Lower storage tiers have a higher price per GB than competitors
Pricing
- 50 GB for free
- 400 GB for $6.02 per month
- 2 TB for $12.06 per month
- 8 TB for $24.13 per month
- 16 TB for $36.20 per month
7. pCloud
With a pCloud account, users will get 10 GB of free storage space. For more storage, customers can subscribe to pCloud Pay service for 500 GB or 2 TB (equivalent to around 2,000 GB). This would be the cheapest cloud storage option for those who are looking for storing photographs, graphics, and other medium-sized files.
One aspect of considering pCloud is that it limits your account to 500 GB of download traffic per month. If you’re using pCloud storage to give others the ability to download files, you may regularly run up against this limit, which can cause issues.
Pros
- Better security and encryption options
- Supports all devices and operating systems
- Single payment option for lifetime access to your storage (eliminating monthly fees)
Cons
- Limited amount of data you can download from your account each month
- No live chat or phone support is available
Pricing
- 500 GB for $4.99 per month
- 2 TB for $9.99 per month
- One-time lifetime access payment offered of $175 for 50 GB or $350 for 2 TB
Cheapest Cloud Storage Compared
Here is how each tier of the cloud storage services discussed in this article stacks up against the others when boiled down to a consistent storage amount.
- $0.0000 per month per 10 GB: MEGA free 50 GB tier
- $0.0000 per month per 10 GB: Google Drive/One free 15 GB tier
- $0.0226 per month per 10 GB: MEGA 16 TB tier
- $0.0302 per month per 10 GB: MEGA 8 TB tier
- $0.0375 per month per 10 GB: Sync 4 TB tier
- $0.0400 per month per 10 GB: Sync 2 TB tier
- $0.0400 per month per 10 GB: Sync 3 TB tier
- $0.0499 per month per 10 GB: Google Drive/One 2 TB tier
- $0.0499 per month per 10 GB: pCloud 2 TB tier
- $0.0499 per month per 10 GB: Apple iDrive 2 TB tier
- $0.0499 per month per 10 GB: Dropbox 2 TB tier
- $0.0500 per month per 10 GB: MediaFire 1 TB tier
- $0.0603 per month per 10 GB: MEGA 2 TB tier
- $0.0699 per month per 10 GB: Microsoft OneDrive 1 TB tier
- $0.0998 per month per 10 GB: pCloud 500 GB tier
- $0.1495 per month per 10 GB: Google Drive/One 200 GB tier
- $0.1495 per month per 10 GB: Apple iDrive 200 GB tier
- $0.1505 per month per 10 GB: MEGA 400 GB tier
- $0.1980 per month per 10 GB: Apple iDrive 50 GB tier
- $0.1990 per month per 10 GB: Google Drive/One 100 GB tier
- $0.1990 per month per 10 GB: Microsoft OneDrive 100 GB tier
For these price comparisons, we’re assuming you’re able to use the full amount of storage in the tier. If you buy 2 TB of storage but only use 1 TB, you’ll waste 1 TB, which means your cost will be double the 1 TB of storage you’re actually using.
Answering most frequently asked questions
As you venture into the realm of organizing and safeguarding your digital assets, a host of questions is bound to arise. What precisely constitutes cloud storage? How robust is its security? Is there a price to pay, or do free alternatives exist? In the section, we address the most commonly raised inquiries concerning the most economical cloud storage choices accessible in 2023:
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage is a service that allows you to store and access data over the internet. Instead of storing files on your local device, you save them on remote servers operated by cloud service providers.
How does cloud storage work?
Cloud storage works by storing your files on remote servers, which are accessible through the internet. These files can be accessed from any device with an internet connection and appropriate credentials.
Is cloud storage secure?
Cloud storage providers implement various security measures, such as encryption and authentication, to protect your data. However, the level of security can vary between providers. It’s recommended to choose a reputable provider with strong security features.
What are the benefits of using cloud storage?
Cloud storage offers benefits like remote access to your files, automatic backups, data synchronization across devices, and the ability to easily share files with others.
Do I need to install software for cloud storage?
Many cloud storage providers offer desktop and mobile apps that make it easier to manage and synchronize your files. However, you can also access your files through web browsers without installing additional software.
How much storage do I need?
The amount of storage you need depends on your usage. Consider the types of files you’ll store (documents, photos, videos), how many users will access the storage, and whether you need space for backups.
Are there free cloud storage options available?
Yes, many cloud storage providers offer free tiers with limited storage space. These are a great way to try out the service before committing to a paid plan.
Can I share files stored in cloud storage with others?
Yes, most cloud storage services allow you to share files and folders with others. You can generate links or invite collaborators to access specific content.
What happens if I exceed my storage limit?
If you exceed your storage limit, you may need to upgrade to a higher-tier plan or remove some files to free up space. Some providers offer automatic upgrades or options to purchase additional storage.
Is my data safe from loss or deletion in cloud storage?
While cloud storage providers implement redundancy and backup measures, it’s important to have your own backup strategy. Accidental deletion or provider issues can lead to data loss, so regularly backing up your important files is recommended.
Final Words
Cloud storage services are relatively new but offer an excellent means of storing and accessing data online. Service providers regularly update subscription plans, including storage limits and prices. Regularly checking with providers will help you identify competitive prices and better-tailored storage plans.
