Best Cloud Backup Services 2023
We know that you are having a hard time choosing the best cloud backup provider as there are so many cloud backup services available. You don’t need to worry about that anymore. Here at Cloudstorageinfo.org, we have spent countless hours testing the efficiency and reliability of each of the cloud backup service providers we could ever think of. We have dedicated our time and resources to compile a list of the best cloud backup services available regardless of your current geographical location and territory.
While testing all of the cloud backup systems extensively, we have actually created a certain set of criteria in order to assess accurately the rankings of each of the cloud backup providers we have reviewed.
# | Service | Rating | Description | Paid Plan | Go To |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Acronis True Image | Acronis True Image is an online backup software with excellent security & privacy. You can perform scheduled, Hybrid, NAS, external hard drive, server and other backups. The download & upload speeds are decent and you can always rely on their support to give you a hand. 30-day trial period. | €8.33/month 1000 GB | Go to Acronis True Image | |
2 | BigMIND | BigMIND is the next-gen cloud backup provided by Zoolz. It has a modern interface with very well developed backup features. It includes scheduled, hybrid, NAS, external hard drive,... backup. The upload and download speeds are incredibly fast which is a bonus in comparison with other cloud backup providers. 1 GB of free backup storage. | €2.99/month 100 GB | Go to BigMIND | |
3 | Polarbackup | Polar Backup originates from the UK and aims to provide an affordable complete cloud backup solution. Their lifetime online backup plans certainly make them an interesting choice due to the well developed backup client with client-side encryption included. No free plans. | €4/month Unlimited GB | Go to Polarbackup | |
4 | CloudAlly | CloudAlly is not your regular backup service. It focuses on backing up other cloud services such as G Suite, Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Dropbox, Box.com... Keep in mind though that it is business-focused so no plans for personal users. 14-day trial period. | $3 per 10 GB | Go to CloudAlly | |
5 | IDrive | IDrive has been around for what seems an eternity now. They basically cover all of the possible backup solutions and for a decent price as well but there seems to be a few technical issues with the service alongside the somewhat poor download & upload speeds. 5 GB of free backup storage. | $4.34/month 2000 GB | Go to IDrive | |
6 | SOS Online Backup | SOS Online Backup certainly falls under the more expensive cloud backup providers but tries to justify that with impeccable security that includes client-side encryption. The backup features are on-point as well with 24/7 customer support. 15-day trial period. | $4.99/month 50 GB | Go to SOS Online Backup | |
7 | ElephantDrive | ElephantDrive is an overall well-developed cloud backup solution with affordable plans. External HDD, NAS, and server backup are all available with great file restoration options. The speeds could be better and there is no client-side encryption but they are certainly a viable backup solution. 30-day trial period. | $10.00/month 1000 GB | Go to ElephantDrive | |
8 | Memopal | Memopal has a variety of backup plans with a well developed backup solution. It also has great online support if you ever run into any issues but remains somewhat lacking when it comes to the security and privacy of your files. 3 GB of free backup storage. | €4.08/month 200 GB | Go to Memopal | |
9 | SpiderOak | SpiderOak features affordable price plans with a well developed backup solution that includes scheduled, NAS and external HDD backup. It is lacking client-side encryption and two-factor authentication but it can be a viable cloud backup solution. 21-day trial period. | $6.00/month 150 GB | Go to SpiderOak | |
10 | KeepVault | KeepVault comes with excellent security & privacy that includes client-side encryption but fails to deliver a proper solution for larger amounts of files due to their expensive plans. It has great recovery options and online support though so if you do not need larger capacities feel free to try them out. 15-day trial period. | $12.87/month 130 GB | Go to KeepVault | |
11 | Backblaze | Backblaze is unique due to the fact that they are offering unlimited online backup for a very decent price. The security and privacy of your files are also on point with client-side encryption included into their plans. 15-day trial period. | $6.00/month Unlimited GB | Go to Backblaze | |
12 | Carbonite | Carbonite is an unlimited cloud backup storage solution. Carbonite is also excellent from the security & privacy due to the available client-side encryption. With a well developed backup solution it is certainly interesting for anyone wishing to back up their computer, NAS, external HDD or set up a Hyrbrid backup. 15-day trial period. | $6.00/month Unlimited GB | Go to Carbonite | |
13 | Livedrive | Livedrive has been around since 2008 and can be quite appealing with the affordable unlimited plan but it is not all roses with the slow download & upload speeds and no client-side encryption. 14-day trial period. | £6.99/month Unlimited GB | Go to Livedrive | |
14 | Data Deposit Box | Data Deposit Box is a backup solution that enables normal computer backups alongside Hybrid and NAS backup. The upload speeds are great but it seems like they have quite a few issues with download speeds. They do encrypt your data with Blowfish server-side encryption. 14-day trial period. | $20.00/month 200 GB | Go to Data Deposit Box | |
15 | MyPCBackup | MyPCBackup is easy to use and has been a good backup solution in the past but it seems that time has ran over them. They provide no additional backup features such as NAS, Hybrid, external HDD,... They are not cheap either so I would think twice before using them. 14-day trial period. | $10.69/month 75 GB | Go to MyPCBackup | |
16 | Duplicati | Duplicati is not a fully fledged backup solution, it is just a free software that you can used to backup to other cloud storage providers, servers,... It uses 256-bit AES client-side encryption so it can be used as an additional encryption tool for backing up files. | Free Software | Go to Duplicati |
On top of our list, we consider the security and privacy measures being implemented by the cloud backup service providers. Second, we rank the best online backup providers based on the features of the file backup options as well as the file recovery selections being offered by the cloud backup service. Third, we test the best online backup systems based on the responsiveness of their online customer support systems are.
Fourth, we have actually considered the download speed and the upload speed of the online backup service providers. Fifth, we have considered the affordability of the subscription plans being offered by the best cloud backup providers. Sixth, we rank the best cloud backup companies based on how easy each of the online backup systems can be used. Seventh, we actually assess the best cloud backup services based on the additional features they can offer to the user. Last but definitely not the least, we also assess whether or not the online cloud backup provider is compatible with mobile devices such as mobile phones and tablets.
This is a comprehensive checklist that we need to carefully study and thoroughly test in order for the cloud backup system to be included in the best online backup services for 2022. There will be a detailed description of each of the criteria mentioned above at the end of this post. So you need to pay attention to what we are going to say. Don’t skip anything and pay attention to everything. I also would like to personally tell you that the compiled list will be ranked from the best to the worst cloud backup provider. This disclosure will ensure that our reviews are honest and totally unbiased. No cloud backup system is perfect. Everything has its own pros and cons. With this, I would like to now give you the rankings based on extensive system tests and research we conducted.
Best Cloud Backup Service #1: Acronis True Image
Acronis True Image
€8.33/month 1000 GBIn terms of privacy and security measures, Acronis True Image is on top of the list of the best cloud backup services available. It uses the fool-proof 256-bit AES encryption system which is a type of encryption system that even military institutions, banks as well as various governments across the globe are trusting. This type of encryption system is considered to be unhackable since you need hundreds of thousands of supercomputers with enough computing powers just to try breaking the code. It will take a lifetime if you want to do that. It is also one of the few best online backup services that offer an anti-ransomware program as well as a cryptomining blocker system as part of its subscription plan. This means that you can enjoy the added security measures without paying an additional fee.
As to file backup procedures and file recovery methods, Acronis True Image is still one of the best. As a matter of fact, there is no file size limit whenever you want to upload a file or folder directly to the cloud. You can also keep as much as 99 versions of your files, folders and data backups. There is no time limit as to storing previous versions of backups as long as it doesn’t exceed the 99-version limit.
As to online customer support service, Acronis True Image aced the test. This is because the cloud backup provider has a very responsive online support team that you can rely on in case you are having technical difficulties or if you have concerns that you need to voice out. Acronis True Image has a phone support system as well as a live chat support system.
As to additional features, Acronis True Image can still be classified as the best cloud backup service available. It has file-sharing capabilities just like what a typical cloud storage provider can give you. It also has added features such as Clone Disk, Rescue Media Builder, Parallels Access, Try & Decide, System Clean-up, Acronis DriveCleanser, Acronis Secure Zone, and Acronis Universal Restore. The online backup provider is also compatible with mobile devices running on Android and IOS.
Acronis True Image also has a fast upload speed as well as a fast download speed. It is one of the admirable qualities in this best cloud backup service. On top of that, the subscription plans of the online backup service are reasonable and affordable. In fact, you only need to pay €99.99 every year to enjoy all of the features Acronis True Image has to offer. The package includes 1 TB of cloud backup space which you can use. It only translates to around €8.33/month for the said subscription plan. This is actually affordable when compared to other cloud backup providers out there. Based on the criteria mentioned above, the online backup system has a 91% rating. Read the full Acronis True Image Review to learn more about the cloud backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Service #2: BigMIND
BigMIND
€2.99/month 100 GBIn terms of privacy and security measures, BigMIND ranked 2nd place at the list of the best cloud backup services available. Just like Acronis True Image, this best online backup provider uses the 256-bit AES encryption system. During the process of data transmission from the local computer to the cloud, the cloud backup provider is also using the 256-bit AES SSL encryption technology. On top of that, BigMIND assures its users that all the data stored in the cloud are secured since the online backup service provider implements a Multi-Factor Authentication system when accessing your files and backups through the cloud backup system’s web user interface. BigMIND opted to utilize Amazon Web Services (AWS) as the data center provider in order to secure all of the backup files and information on the servers.
As to file backup procedures and file recovery methods, BigMIND is considered to be one of the best in the cloud backup industry. There is no file size limit during the process of uploading files to the cloud. Hybrid backup is also supported by BigMIND through the cloud backup provider’s Hybrid+ option. This means that you can simultaneously upload files to the cloud while creating a local backup inside the local hard disk drive of your computer. If you have tested lots of available online backup providers, you will recognize that the hybrid backup option does not come very often and very easily. This is one of the main features of BigMIND that you shouldn’t miss. Aside from that, you will appreciate this best online backup service provider even more as it has the multithreaded backup capability as well as the bandwidth throttling technology. However, you should take note that with the BigMIND cloud backup system, you can only store 10 versions of every file backup. While the file versioning system is limited for BigMIND, it is still one of the best cloud backup systems ever built.
As to additional features, I can say that BigMIND is indeed quite remarkable. It is indeed one of the best cloud backup services available. First and foremost, you can appreciate the BigMIND cloud backup system because of its file-sharing capabilities. Second, backing up files to other cloud storage providers such as Dropbox, Box, Google Drive, and OneDrive is possible in this particular online backup service provider. You can even backup photos to Facebook and Instagram with the use of this cloud backup provider. Third, the BigMIND cloud backup system has features related to artificial intelligence. It can actually recognize people’s faces and can recognize things from the photos.
BigMIND has a fast upload speed as well as a fast download speed. The cloud backup provider also has mobile applications for both Android and IOS devices. On top of that, subscription plans are reasonable and affordable. As a matter of fact, you only need to pay €6.99 per month to get 500 GB cloud backup space. BigMIND also has an impressive online customer support system. Based on the complete criteria for judging a cloud backup service provider, BigMIND has garnered a score of 89%. Read the full BigMIND Review to learn more about the cloud backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Service #3: Polar Backup
In terms of privacy and security measures, Polar Backup is considered to be at the list of the best cloud backup services available. Just like BigMIND and Acronis True Image, this particular cloud backup service provider is using the 256-bit AES encryption system. This type of encryption system is considered the best form of encryption system across all industries. On top of this, Polar Backup has the option to allow users to manage their encryption keys. This means that you have client-side encryption and data protection if you choose Polar Backup as your online backup service provider. It embraces the concept of Zero-knowledge encryption technology.
You can also be assured that all of your files, backups, and confidential data are taken care of seriously by Polar Backup since the cloud backup provider subscribed to the data center facilities offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS). Polar Backup also uses the SSL encryption protocol during the transmission of files and folders from the local computer to the cloud.
As to file backup procedures, Polar Backup is still considered to be one of the best in the cloud backup industry. As a matter of fact, external hard disk drive backups, NAS backups, as well as, hybrid backups are supported in this online backup service. You can also set a specified schedule regarding running and creating backups. Multithreaded upload and bandwidth throttling are also supported as well. However, you should take note that there is a file size limitation depending on the type of subscription plan you availed of. It can range from 4 GB to 20 GB limits when uploading files. But the good news is that if you availed of the Platinum subscription plan, then there will be no file size limit at all.
As to file restoration, you can save a maximum of 10 versions of your files and backups just like the BigMIND. The results of the speed tests are also highly satisfactory. As to additional features, the Polar Backup has a Vault system available. Such a feature also functions as a cloud storage system as file sharing with password protection is available. Online support is also fully functional although there is no dedicated phone line for technical concerns. Subscription plans are also affordable. Read the full Polar Backup Review to learn more about the cloud backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Services #4: CloudAlly
CloudAlly
$3 per 10 GBPros
- 14-day free trial with no credit card
- Unlimited backup
- Microsoft 365, G Suite, Dropbox, Box.com, Salesforce backup
- Easy to set up and manage
- Scheduled backup with per user settings
- Fast backup of the above mentioned services
- Plenty of file restoration options
- 256-bit AES encryption, HIPAA compliance
- 24/7 responsive live chat support
Cons
- No personal backups (business only)
- No file previews
- Slightly slower recovery process
- No client-side encryption
At first, this best cloud backup service provider may sound unappealing to lots of potential customers and service subscribers in the cloud backup industry. But there is a reason why it was able to land at the 4th spot for the list of the best online backup service providers. As mentioned in the CloudAlly Review, it isn’t your standard cloud backup service subscription wherein one of the main considerations is the amount of cloud backup space you will get for a specific amount of money. This key performance indicator isn’t applicable to CloudAlly as a reliable online backup service since it does not cater backing up files for personal use.
But rather, the best cloud backup provider is most useful for backing up various files and documents that already exist in various cloud storage providers as well as other file backup and recovery tools such as Office 365 Exchange, Office 365 Groups, OneDrive, Box, G Suite, Salesforce, G Team Drive, SharePoint Online and IMAP (local e-mail). So it is impossible to compare this particular best online backup service provider with other players in the cloud backup industry. To prove this, I would like to point out that in some cases, CloudAlly offers unlimited cloud backup space made possible with some integration from other cloud storage providers as well as file and backup recovery tools.
Take for example the integration of CloudAlly to G Suite Business subscription plan. In case you haven’t noticed, the G Suite Business subscription plan allows users to use unlimited cloud storage of Google Drive or a guaranteed 1 TB of Google Drive cloud storage space per user if the team members are less than 5. That alone, translates to a huge amount of cloud backup space that CloudAlly users can take advantage of whenever creating backups for G Suite Business users. The good thing here is that a reliable best cloud backup provider, such as CloudAlly, only charges US$3.00 per month or US$30.00 per year for each user of the G Suite Business subscription plan. On top of that, the same price applies to Salesforce backup integration as well as MS365 Exchange and MS365 Complete integration with CloudAlly cloud backup service.
The rest of the integrations and subscription plans of CloudAlly charges US$3.00 per 10 GB cloud backup space per month for every user. It could also be an equivalent of $30.00 per 10 GB cloud backup space for year for every user as well. This pricing is applicable to cloud backup integrations of CloudAlly with Google Team Drives, Dropbox, Box, and MS365 Files & Collaboration.
As to privacy and security measures being implemented by CloudAlly, we can actually say that this best cloud backup service provider is doing really good. First and foremost, I’m happy to announce that CloudAlly Ltd. was actually founded in 2011 in Israel. In case you haven’t heard yet, around 20% of the world’s cybersecurity contracts from various industries are handled by Israeli cybersecurity companies as of 2022. This alone is actually good news if you are looking for an assurance that your data, files, and sensitive information that are stored in the cloud are safe from any breach of security.
On top of that, this best online backup service provider is currently using 256-bit AES encryption which in today’s generation is the gold standard for securing and encrypting various file types. It also uses Amazon Web Services to store data collected by this particular best cloud backup company. It also uses SSL encryption while data is transit from one point to another. CloudAlly is also complying with the rules and regulations set by various data privacy laws and governing data privacy authorities such as the HIPAA (BAA) and GDPR. On top of that, cloud ally boasts its ISO 27001 information management security certification. However, it is also important to note that there is currently no client-side encryption which fosters the culture and concept of zero-knowledge in encryption.
With regards to online support, CloudAlly is one of the best there is. This is because this best online backup service provider has a 24/7 live chat customer support system, phone customer support system as well as e-mail support and ticket support system. As to speed, file backup, and file recovery, it is hard to compare it with the rest of the best cloud backup service providers since the files that are being backed up by CloudAlly are not uploaded through a local computer or a local hard drive but through an existing online cloud storage account. Based on the complete criteria for judging a cloud backup service provider, CloudAlly has garnered a score of 85%. Some of the drawbacks for this particular online backup provider include the absence of personal backup subscription, absence of file previews, as well as the absence of client-side encryption and slower file recovery process than most cloud backup service providers mentioned in this list. Read the full CloudAlly Review to learn more about the online backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Service #5: IDrive
IDrive
$4.34/month 2000 GBPros
- Affordable plans
- Backup schedule, continuous backup
- External hard drive, NAS, server backup
- iOS & Android device backup
- Great file restoration options
- Client-side encryption available & business compliances
- 24/7 live chat & phone call support
- Sync folder & share files available
Cons
- Slightly complicated
- No file deduplication
- No multi-threaded backup
- Slow downloads & download speeds with bigger files
- A few bugs spread across the apps
In terms of privacy and security measures, IDrive has also been deemed worthy to be part of the best cloud backup service providers in the computer data storage industry. It uses a very powerful encryption system that has never been successfully breached by any hacker throughout the entire world. Not even a supercomputer that exists in today’s generation can break the encryption code that is protecting all the data files and documents stored in this best online backup service provider.
IDrive is proud to present to its customers and clients that the cloud backup system uses 256-bit AES encryption technology. It is computationally impossible to breach the encryption system IDrive is using simply because it uses a 128-bit block size paired with a 256-bit encryption key that undergoes 14 different rounds of data transformation. For that reason alone, we can safely say that IDrive is one of the best cloud backup systems ever built because of its data security features.
On top of that, IDrive has added other security features such as a multi-factor authentication system by the use of a two-factor authentication protocol. The said security feature protects the particular IDrive account of a user from unauthorized access. The multi-step authentication system is done via e-mail.
You also have the option to create and store your own encryption key with this particular cloud backup service provider. This type of system is actually called the client-side encryption system wherein no other person or institution knows the exact private encryption key other than the person who created it. In this case, it is you who has created your own encryption key. If this is the case, then it is your responsibility to take care of the encryption key and make that it is never lost. It embraces the concept of zero-knowledge encryption protocol. IDrive also has various compliances with multiple data privacy laws such as the GLBA, HIPAA, and SOX.
As to file backup procedures and file recovery methods, IDrive is also considered to be efficient and effective by its clients and cloud backup system subscribers. Incremental backup is supported by this particular online cloud backup service provider. Since incremental backup is supported, subsequent upload of an edited file or document becomes faster than the first time around. This particular type of backup system is also commonly called the block-level file synchronization procedure. You will also never having a problem with system compatibility as this particular best cloud backup provider is available in Windows, Mac, and Linux.
On top of all of these things, backup scheduling is also possible in this best cloud backup system. Creating backup files for Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices as well as for the regular external hard disk drives can also be done using the IDrive cloud backup system. There are also other advanced features that you can use if you avail of the services of IDrive. As a matter of fact, you can try the disk image backup system of this best online backup provider. Continuous data protection is also available in IDrive.
Aside from that, IDrive also brings a valuable feature which is called the “Snapshots” which allows the user of the best cloud backup system to go back in time and restore a previous version of a file. This feature is the adversary of the pCloud rewind that offers almost exactly the same feature. So in terms of file versioning system, IDrive can keep a maximum of 30 different versions of a particular file.
The subscription plans being offered by IDrive are completely reasonable and very affordable. In fact, you only need to pay $4.34 per month to get 2000 GB worth of cloud backup space. Based on the complete criteria for judging a cloud backup service provider, IDrive has garnered a score of 81%. Read the full IDrive Review to learn more about the online backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Service #6: SOS Online Backup
In terms of privacy and security measures, SOS Online Backup is indeed commendable. As a matter of fact, based on our criteria for grading the privacy and security features of this particular best cloud backup service provider, SOS Online Backup has been given a perfect score of 100%.
It is not all the time that best online backup service providers are being given this level of rating. This is why we want to explain how it happened. First and foremost, SOS Online Backup uses a Triple-Layer 256-bit AES Encryption technology. You should really take note of this because there is a huge difference between an ordinary 256-bit key AES encryption and a Triple-Layer 256-bit key AES encryption capability.
In the specialized Triple-Layer 256-bit key AES encryption technology, files are protected every step of the way. Before files are being sent to the cloud, SOS Online Backup already encrypts the raw files with the 256-bit key AES encryption. This means that before it proceeds with the data transmission, the files are already encrypted locally through the desktop client version of this particular best cloud backup service provider. As you upload the files to the cloud, the encrypted file undergoes separate encryption during the data transmission process. It uses the 256-bit key SSL encryption functionality during the process of data transmission.
As the files are being received by the servers and data centers of the SOS Online Backup, it undergoes a separate 256-bit key AES encryption protocol. This strengthens the encryption process of all of the files and documents that are being stored in the cloud. That being said, there is really no way for hackers to exploit this particular best cloud backup system. There are no known vulnerabilities with this best online backup service provider in terms of privacy and security.
Aside from all of that, SOS Online Backup has complied with the privacy laws as discussed in the HIPAA, Safe Harbor Principles, as well as in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Furthermore, this particular cloud backup service provider uses client-side encryption through an advanced feature called the UltraSafeMAX. Because of this zero-knowledge encryption can be further applied.
The good thing about using this particular online backup provider is that it allows you to hold unlimited versions of files in the cloud. This is a unique selling point of SOS Online Backup since most of the existing cloud backup service providers have limitations in terms of the file versioning capability. Aside from that, there is no time limit regarding the recoverability of a previously deleted file in this particular online backup system. This functionality is done through the use of the ForeverSave File Retention feature of the SOS Online Backup.
Furthermore, this cloud backup service provider has a Smart Scanner feature that allows files stored in your computer to be organized based on file types. So if you have a particular file type that you wish to back up, the process will be easy.
Customer support is available 24/7 but places greater importance to the subscribers who are availing of the business type of subscription plans. As to pricing and subscription plans, there is a setback since SOS Online Backup offers an expensive subscription package when compared to the competitors that are part of this list of best cloud backup services for 2022. You need to pay $20.99 every month in order to be able to use 500 GB worth of cloud backup space.
Based on the complete criteria for judging a cloud backup service provider, SOS Online Backup has gained a score of 78%. Read the full SOS Online Backup Review to learn more about the cloud backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Service #7: ElephantDrive
ElephantDrive successfully landed on the sixth spot for the list of best cloud backup services for this particular year. There are many reasons why ElephantDrive managed to be part of the list. In terms of privacy and security measures, this particular cloud backup service provider uses the 256-bit key AES encryption capability when encrypting files locally through its desktop client. On top of that, this online backup system uses the 128-bit SSL encryption protocol during data transmission.
You also don’t have to worry about the security of files once it is stored in the cloud as ElephantDrive uses the data centers of Amazon Web Services. We know for a fact that the servers and data centers of Amazon Web Services are one of the most protected facilities in the world. ElephantDrive also has complied with privacy laws as enumerated in HIPAA, Privacy Shield, GDPR, and HITECH Act.
Just like SOS Online Backup, the ElephantDrive can also accommodate unlimited versions of files for an unlimited amount of time. There is no restriction with regards to the file versioning and file version recovery. As to the pricing of subscription plans, you only need to pay $10.00 every month to avail of 1000 GB worth of cloud backup space. In this particular subscription plan, the file size limit when uploading files to the cloud is pegged at 2 GB.
Based on the complete criteria for judging a cloud backup service provider, IDrive has garnered a score of 76%. Read the full ElephantDrive Review to learn more about the online backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Services #8: Memopal
Memopal
€4.08/month 200 GBWhile Memopal has fallen short of the expected standards as to privacy and security, it still managed to become part of the list of the best cloud backup services for 2022 because of its affordability. As a matter of fact, you only need to pay €79.00 every year to be able to use 400 GB worth of cloud backup space. If you translate that price in terms of the monthly payment, you will only need to spend €6.58 to be able to use this particular best online backup service provider.
If you need a higher cloud backup space, then you can just simply upgrade to the 1000 GB subscription plan for only €149.00 every single year. If you try to analyze the pricing structure of this particular best cloud backup provider, you will see that it will only cost you €12.42 every month. This pricing system is comparable to the pricing structure being used by other online backup providers who managed to get higher rankings than the Memopal cloud backup system.
If you really want to save money, then you can even get a subscription plan as low as €19.00 payable annually for a 50 GB worth of cloud backup space. If you convert the annual payment into a monthly price structure, it will be revealed that you will only need to pay €1.58 each month in order to avail of the services of the cloud backup service provider. If you think that a 50 GB subscription plan is too low, then you can avail of the 200 GB subscription plan for only €49.00 every year. Aside from that, Memopal offers a lifetime free account that allows you to access 3 GB worth of cloud backup space.
This best cloud backup service provider is also known for a strong online customer support system. As a matter of fact, in terms of online customer support, Memopal was able to get a 100% rating in this particular criterion for judging. This best online backup service provider has a phone support system, live chat support system as well as e-mail support system. This is on top of the cloud backup provider’s user manuals and very informative frequently asked questions (FAQs) page.
In terms of privacy and security, this best online backup service uses the RAID-5 system as part of the cloud backup system’s disk parity and disk striping protocols. The cloud backup service provider also uses SSL encryption protocol during data transmission from the local computer to the cloud. However, they were unable to say what encryption technology they are using in the cloud backup system’s servers and data centers.
In terms of additional features, Memopal has the capability of sharing files easily with other people through created links. It can also easily sync files though a specific folder. In this manner, Memopal functions like a regular cloud storage provider as well. Aside from that, you will be happy to learn that Memopal does not put limitations as to file types and as to file sizes during uploads. The online backup system of Memopal is also reliable in terms of file recovery since it can store unlimited file versions for a very long period of time.
Based on the complete criteria for judging a cloud backup service provider, Memopal has garnered a score of 76%. It has a lower rating than other best cloud backup service providers due to the lack of security and privacy measures being currently implemented. Read the full Memopal Review to learn more about the online backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Services #9: SpiderOak
SpiderOak
$6.00/month 150 GBPros
- Affordable subscription plans
- Easy to use cloud backup system
- Compatible with Linux OS
- NAS backup is supported
- External HDD Backup is supported
- Has mobile applications
- Fast download speed
- Has file and folder sharing capability
Cons
- Weak online support
- No client-side encryption
- Slow upload speed
- No Two-Factor Authentication
As to privacy and security measures, SpiderOak has a very good rating which allowed the online backup system to be part of the best cloud backup services as evaluated by cloudstorageinfo.org. As a matter of fact, the online backup system was able to get 80% as its score for privacy and security measures. This is because this particular best cloud backup service provider is using a very strong encryption protocol. In case you really want to know, SpiderOak actually uses the mighty and powerful 256-bit AES encryption system to protect the data and files of its service subscribers.
It uses an end-to-end encryption system wherein the private encryption key is never stored in the data centers or servers of SpiderOak. It is only locally stored through the desktop client of this particular online backup provider. Before files are sent to the cloud, it will first be locally encrypted as well. In this manner, there will be no way for the hackers of the servers and data centers to decrypt the files that were previously sent. It is the reason why the zero-knowledge protocol is possible with this particular cloud backup service provider.
You should take note that there is currently no client-side encryption system that allows you to create your own private encryption key. You can only make a regular password for your account in the online backup system. The data centers and servers of SpiderOak are actually SAS 70 Type II compliant. On top of that, you should be happy to know that this particular best cloud backup service provider is currently using the TLS/SSL encryption system during the process of data transmission. The cloud backup system is also following the data privacy laws as enumerated in the HIPAA and the GDPR.
While the restriction is not compulsory, it is advised to limit the file size to 10 GB when uploading files to the cloud. This best online backup service provider also has a file versioning system that allows users to retrieve an unlimited number of file versions indefinitely.
As to the pricing and subscription plans, we can say that SpiderOak is relatively affordable just like all the other best cloud backup services included in this list. As a matter of fact, you only need to pay $11.00 every month in order to get 400 GB worth of cloud backup space. If you choose to avail of the yearly subscription plan, then you can also just pay $115.00 every year for the same 400 GB subscription plan. This means that if you avail of the yearly subscription plan, the effective monthly fee for the same amount of cloud backup space is reduced to only $9.58.
There are also other subscription plans with different amounts of cloud backup space. Aside from the 400 GB subscription plan, you can also avail of the 150 GB plan, 2000 GB plan, and the 4000 GB plan. Based on the complete criteria for judging a cloud backup service provider, SpiderOak has garnered a score of 76%. It has a lower rating than other best cloud backup service providers due to slow upload speed and due to the weak customer online support of SpiderOak. Read the full SpiderOak Review to learn more about the online backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Services #10: KeepVault
KeepVault
$12.87/month 130 GBAs to privacy and security measures being implemented by KeepVault, we can definitely say that it has caught our attention. As a matter of fact, it was able to get a perfect score for this particular criterion for evaluating the best cloud backup services in the computer data storage industry. First and foremost, it uses the 128-bit AES encryption system for all of its Home subscription plans. If you want to have a stronger data encryption system than that, then you can also choose the Professional subscription plans of KeepVault which uses the 256-bit AES encryption system.
On top of that, you should also be grateful that the KeepVault cloud backup system is also using the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) connection during the process of data transmission. This particular cloud backup service provider also has data centers that are SAS 70 compliant. Furthermore, users of this best online backup service provider are lucky enough to experience client-side encryption technology which enables the zero-knowledge encryption capability. It is also important to take note of the various data privacy laws and agreements that this particular cloud backup system is diligently following. KeepVault actually has existing data privacy compliances such as the HIPAA and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
This particular online backup service provider also has acquired a perfect score in terms of the customer online support system. This is mainly due to the fact that KeepVault has both phone support and e-mail support systems to address the queries and concerns of the service subscribers of the cloud backup system. You can also store a maximum of 5 versions of files for an indefinite period of time if you availed of the Professional subscription plans of KeepVault. This particular cloud backup system allows a user to upload as much as 500 GB for a particular file.
Based on the complete criteria for judging a cloud backup service provider, KeepVault has garnered a score of 75%. It has a lower rating than other best cloud backup service providers due to the expensive subscription plans the online backup system is offering. Read the full KeepVault Review to learn more about the online backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Services #11: BackBlaze
Backblaze is the complete opposite of the situation of CloudAlly. While you may be enticed with the unlimited cloud backup subscription package of Backblaze, there is a major flaw in the cloud backup service agreement. You might actually wonder why an unlimited cloud backup space became self-limiting in the case of Backblaze. But the thing is you haven’t heard the full story. While having an unlimited cloud backup space is actually very good in most cases, Backblaze does not allow individual files to be backed up to the cloud. The worst thing is that you can’t even back up individual folders to the servers and data centres of this particular best cloud backup service provider.
In order to be able to take advantage of the unlimited cloud backup space offered by Backblaze, you need to back up your entire local hard drive. This move makes no sense as it will only complicate matters especially handling various sets of raw data files and information. Moreover, it will take lots of time to back up the files and folders you want to create a copy of since you need to upload your entire hard disk drive to the data centre of Backblaze.
In the actual speed test conducted in the Philippines for example, a 2 MBPS upload speed provided by the local internet service provider allowed a 1 GB set of files in the local hard drive to be completely uploaded in 3 hours and 22 minutes. It is still way too slow even if the country where the cloud backup procedures are initiated is very close to the proximity of the cloud backup service provider’s servers and data centre. In fact, it will still take 1 hour and 6 minutes to upload a 1 GB local hard disk drive if the maximum upload speed given by the local internet service provider is only 2 MBPS.
With this insight, you can imagine how hard it is to create an online backup of a local hard disk drive with an average space of 100 GB. Because of this issue, Backblaze did not pass the speed test and only got 35% rating for this specific key performance indicator.
Subsequently, because of the limitations in the file backup process, this particular online backup service only got 65% rating. On top of that, even if there is a mobile application available for Backblaze, it is impossible to back up files that exist in the mobile phone you are using. This is a major drawback too. The ease of use for this particular cloud backup service is also only at 70%.
These are the main reasons why Backblaze is considered to be at the bottom part of the list for best online backup services. It ranked 11th out of the 16 best cloud backup service providers that I was able to test thoroughly and judiciously. If we look at the overall performance of Backblaze as one of the best online backup service providers, it got a 73% performance rating across 8 key performance indicators.
It managed to recover because of the affordability of its subscription plans. In fact, US$6.00 per month for unlimited cloud backup space is actually very cheap and is considered to be very affordable. For that key benchmark alone, Backblaze got a 90% rating.
As to privacy and security, I can also assure you that Backblaze is also top-notch. As a matter of fact, it uses the 128-bit AES data encryption system. While the 256-bit AES encryption technology is more powerful than the 128-bit AES encryption, it is still considered to be actually very safe and secure. If you doubt that, then I would like to share with you that this best cloud backup provider has an optional client-side encryption capability just in case you need it. The Two-Factor Authentication also comes in very handy. This is the reason why in terms of privacy and security, Backblaze got a 100% rating.
Read the full Backblaze Review to learn more about the cloud backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Services #12: Carbonite
At first glance, you might think that Carbonite as a best cloud backup service provider is very affordable because of its basic subscription plan which only costs $71.99 a year. That’s roughly $6.00 a month when amortized monthly. However, when you look closely, it has its own limitations even if Carbonite offers unlimited backup space for every user of this particular online backup service provider. First and foremost, Carbonite only allows external hard disk drive backup and automatic video backup if you are subscribed to Carbonite Safe Plus which costs $111.99 a year.
On top of that, backing up files from a network-attached storage (NAS) will require you to purchase the Carbonite Safe Backup Pro for $287.99 a year. You can get the same privilege with other best cloud backup providers for a cheaper subscription price. Carbonite will only be advantageous in the long run if you are backing up lots of files and folders that will consume more than 1 TB of cloud backup space. This is the reason why this best online backup service provider only got 60% rating in terms of pricing and subscription plans.
The good thing is that Carbonite got a 100% rating in terms of privacy and security being implemented by a best cloud backup provider. As a matter of fact, you have the option to select the client-side encryption technology which embraces the culture of zero-knowledge encryption capability. This means that you are the only one who can get access to your files. It is impossible to have any breach of confidential information and breach in data security. Not even the owners or employees of Carbonite can gain access to your files and folders.
Aside from that, a Two-Factor Authentication code will be sent to your mobile phone in order to successfully log-in to your account. Should you decide to let Carbonite manage your encryption key, you must know that it is still very secure as this best online backup provider uses the 128-bit AES encryption on its servers.
The ease of use, file backup, as well as the file recovery of Carbonite are actually good and have garnered a highly satisfactory rating. In terms of online customer support, this best cloud backup service provider gained a 100% rating. This is attributed to the presence of phone support, chat support, as well as the e-mail customer support on top of a complete knowledge base and user manuals found on the support page of Carbonite.
However, there are other problems found with this particular online backup service provider. First, Linux operating system is not supported. Second, there is no available mobile application unlike in the case of the majority of the best cloud backup service providers found in this list. Third, there are limited features in the basic subscription plans of Carbonite which makes it more expensive in the short run when compared to other best online backup service providers. Fourth, both the upload and download speeds of Carbonite are way much slower than most of the competitors in the best cloud backup industry.
The overall performance of Carbonite is a little bit lower than the average. In fact it only got 72% performance rating across 8 different key performance indicators we’ve used in assessing various online backup service providers. It just placed 12th on the list of the best cloud backup service providers. Read the full Carbonite Review to learn more about this particular online backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Services #13: Livedrive
Livedrive
£6.99/month Unlimited GBIn terms of pricing and subscription plans, Livedrive as a cloud backup service provider is quite impressive. In fact, it scored a 95% performance rating in terms of the pricing structure of this online backup provider. This is primarily attributed to the fact that this particular online backup service provider offers unlimited cloud backup space for its users for only £6.99 per month.
On top of that, there is also no file size limitation whenever backing up files to the cloud using Livedrive. This is another major advantage of this best online backup service provider. Another good thing about Livedrive is that you will be able to preview certain file types such as PDF files along with pictures, music, and videos. Previewing these file types is possible with Livedrive. It is considered as a privilege since this feature is uncommon when we talk about cloud backup providers.
You have to remember that file preview capability is one of the specialities of the cloud storage industry and not of the cloud backup industry. If you want to preview Microsoft Word document, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint, you just have to upgrade your subscription plan to Livedrive Pro Suite. This subscription plan costs £15.00 per month which offers unlimited cloud backup space, preview capability across all major file types, as well as 5 GB worth of cloud storage. On top of that, you can register 5 different users for this particular subscription plan.
As to privacy and security, Livedrive has an 80% performance rating. While it uses military-grade encryption such as the 256-bit AES, it currently does not have the client-side encryption technology. This means that Livedrive has access to your encryption keys. It may be impossible to crack 256-bit AES from the outside by hackers but it would be easier for employees of the Livedrive cloud backup system to peek through your stored data. This means if that law enforcement will issue a subpoena to Livedrive, they are obliged to turn over your data to the requesting government agency. You will never be fully protected against the PATRIOT Act and the CLOUD Act.
The good thing is that this particular best cloud backup system is PCI Compliant. It also uses TLS encryption during the process of data transmission. On top of that, the data centres and servers of Livedrive are all accredited and have ISO 27001 certification.
Continuous backup as well as hard disk drive backup is available in this best online backup system. File versioning is also available in Livedrive. In fact, it allows you to store a maximum of 30 versions of a particular file or folder. Backing up files from a network-attached storage device is also possible but it will cost you £5.00 more per month.
However, there is a major issue with Livedrive in terms of upload and download speeds to and from the online cloud backup system. You should be aware that all of the data centers of Livedrive are located in the United Kingdom. This means that data centers are not evenly distributed across geographical regions. In effect, uploading and downloading files and folders to and from the online backup system outside the United Kingdom will be way much slower than the normal internet speed set forth by the local internet service provider.
When tested from the Philippines for example, it took 3 times the amount of time needed to upload and download a file or folder using Livedrive than the normal time average that it should be. Because of this, Livedrive only got a 30% performance rating with regards to speed as this issue will also bound to happen in any other country except the United Kingdom and the surrounding countries within that same geographical region.
With regards to overall performance, Livedrive got an average of 69% performance rating. It is currently at the 13th spot for the best online backup systems we’ve reviewed so far. Read the full Livedrive Review to learn more about this cloud backup service.
Best Cloud Backup Services #14: Data Deposit Box
One of the reasons why this particular best cloud backup system is at the bottom of the list is that it costs $20.00 per month for 200 GB worth of cloud backup space. It is way too expensive than most of the rest of the best online backup service providers in this list. On top of that, there is also no desktop client version available. This means that it will be harder to backup files since you need to go to the web browser application of Data Deposit Box first before you can upload or download backup copies of your files and folders. Because of that, Data Deposit Box has a rating of 50% in terms of its pricing structure and available subscription plans.
In terms of privacy and security, Data Deposit Box got 85% rating. This is because this best cloud backup service provider uses a 448-bit Blowfish server-side encryption which is considered to be a military-grade type of data encryption. Two-Factor Authentication can also be activated in this best online backup system.
One major drawback of Data Deposit Box is that this best cloud backup system has a very slow download speed. As a matter of fact, when I tested here in the Philippines, it took 26 times longer than the expected time to download the backup files and folders from the cloud to my local computer. In terms of download speed, it is really horrible. Upload speed works fine though and is unaffected by the issue. The web user interface itself is experiencing lags most of the time. Because of this, Data Deposit Box only scored 45% in terms of speed.
In terms of overall performance, Data Deposit Box got a 68% performance score and is currently at the 14th spot for the best online backup service providers. Read the full Data Deposit Box Review to learn more about this cloud backup service.
Criteria for Judging the Best Cloud Backup Services
Listed below are the full details of the criteria for evaluating the rankings of the best cloud backup services we have reviewed.
1. Privacy & Security Measures of the Best Cloud Backup Providers
As much as possible, we try to provide the exact type of data encryption system the online backup provider is using. We also assess the security of the cloud backup service based on the implementation of the Multi-Factor Authentication system. We also measure the strength of the cloud backup provider’s security during data transmission. We try to analyze whether or not the cloud backup system uses TLS/SSL encryption protocol.
We also analyze if the online backup provider has client-side encryption as a means of data protection. We try to find out what data privacy laws are they complying to. We dig information from their privacy policies.
2. File Backup Procedures of the Best Cloud Backup Providers
We assess the compatibility of the cloud backup provider to different computer operating systems such as Windows, MAC, and Linux. We analyze what types of backups can be performed in the cloud backup systems. This includes the availability of real-time or continuous backup and the availability of performing incremental backups.
We also judge the cloud backup provider based on their capability to perform a hybrid backup, server backup, NAS backup, and external hard disk drive backup. We also test a particular cloud backup system based on whether or not you can schedule backups the way you want to.
On top of all of these things, we try to look for all the backup options available in the online back system both in the desktop client version and the web user interface.
3. File Restoration of The Best Cloud Backup Providers
We are trying to find out whether or not the cloud backup provider has a recycle bin for easy restoration of files that have been previously deleted through the web user interface. On top of that, we also assess how many file versions can be kept and easily be recovered. Different cloud backup service providers have different limits as to their file versioning systems.
We also try to see if the online backup provider has a courier service that allows the users to recover large amounts of data and files easily without them performing the tedious restoration process. Through the courier service, the cloud backup provider stores the data, files, and backups that have been requested by the user to external hard disk drives and USB flash drives. These drives used in storing large amounts of data are then sent through the regular mail. Sometimes, it is more convenient to use this particular method of backup restoration since downloading files directly from the cloud can take a long time especially if they have massive amounts of data.
We also try to figure out all the possible data restoration options available in the cloud backup system.
4. Download and Upload Speed of The Best Cloud Backup Providers
We test the efficiency of the cloud backup provider by looking into the upload speed as well as the download speed and compare it to the maximum speed that the local internet provider is giving at the time of the testing. In this way, our cloud backup reviews remain completely honest and impartial. The baseline data and the results of the speed tests will be the basis for grading the efficiency of the cloud backup system. All of the results are based on a 1 GB worth of data being uploaded and downloaded through the cloud backup service provider.
We also try to account for and compare the proximity of the geographical location where the speed test has been conducted to the locations of the data centers of the cloud backup provider since it can affect the results significantly. Proper disclosure of the location of the speed test must be made.
On top of that, we try to see if there is a way within the cloud backup system that allows the individual users to set a proxy server in case the location of data centers is far away from the location of the local computer where backup and restoration procedures are being made.
We also try to assess whether or not the cloud backup service provider intentionally limits the bandwidth when restoring files as a method for forcing people to use the courier service the online cloud backup system provides. If we sense that the online backup provider is doing this tricky method, then we give a lower score to the cloud backup service provider.
5. Online Support of The Best Cloud Backup Providers
In order to assess the reliability of the online support system the cloud backup providers are giving to their clients, we usually take note of the following:
We usually look for the knowledge base and the frequently asked questions (FAQs) pages to see if they have answered all of the possible relevant questions regarding their cloud backup systems. These particular pages should include user manuals as well as tutorial videos.
We also try to look for the availability of the phone support system. As much as possible, we try to list down all of the relevant telephone numbers as well as specific business hours and time zones we can contact the customer care representatives directly.
We also try to see if a live chat support system is being integrated into the online support system of the online backup provider. This is because making phone calls outside your country can cost a lot. This is the reason why we need to have an alternative way to contact the technical support team of the cloud backup service provider.
We also try to take note of the e-mail address of the online backup provider has presented to its website dedicated to online support.
6. Pricing & Subscription Plans of the Best Cloud Backup Providers
First and foremost, we try to look for the availability of a free trial period in order to test the cloud backup system with no obligation to pay. Second, we try to see if a permanent free plan is available when you sign up for a particular online backup provider.
Third, we try to look for all of the subscription plans the cloud backup company is offering. Here, we specifically look for the affordability of the subscription plans. We analyze affordability by comparing the subscription price of the cloud backup provider to all of the other online backup solution providers. We also compare the price in relation to the amount of cloud backup space the subscriber is getting after paying for the service.
We also try to look for all possible payment options for the subscription plans. On top of that, we check if direct bank transfer is available. Moreover, we also check the availability of a PayPal checkout button when paying for the subscription plan. On top of that, we assess the frequency of the payments (One-Time Fee, Monthly, Semi-Annually, Yearly).
7. Additional Features of the Best Cloud Backup Providers
In this particular section, we try to look for file and folder sharing capabilities of the cloud backup platform. We discuss whether or not the shared link can be adjusted to a password-protected link which limits the access of such files and folders to the intended person only.
We also try to look for the sync capabilities of the cloud backup system. If this is available, then we could partially say that the cloud backup system also serves as a cloud storage system.
We also try to look for the unique selling points of the online backup provider. In order to have a unique selling proposition and be able to differentiate itself from the rest of the market, a particular cloud backup service provider must have proprietary features and add-ons included in the subscription plans.
8. Ease of Use of the Best Cloud Backup Providers
In this criterion, we often consider the level of convenience when signing up for an account in order to use a particular online backup provider. We look for the automatic sign up options via an existing Facebook account, Google account or even an Instagram account. If this feature is available, then signing up an account is very easy since you just have to click the button if you are already logged in to any of the three accounts mentioned above.
We also assess whether or not the cloud backup provider is asking non-relevant details such as phone numbers and home addresses. If that is the case then we give a lower score to the online backup service provider regarding the ease of use.
We also try to see if the cloud backup service is asking for a debit card or credit card details in order to activate the free trial option. If it does, then it would be considered as a red flag.
9. Mobile Applications of the Best Online Backup Providers
We try to assess what versions of the Android OS and IOS are compatible with the cloud backup system. Aside from that, we also take note of the capabilities of the mobile applications. We assess whether or not the mobile application of the online backup system can backup data coming from the phones and mobile devices to the cloud. Sometimes, mobile applications are not designed to backup files. There are certain times that they are designed to access backup files and restore them directly to the mobile device instead.
Conclusion
All of the cloud backup providers we reviewed on this website are all subjected to the same set of criteria mentioned above. We can assure you that all of the reviews we make are completely honest and unbiased as we have a set of rules to follow in evaluating each of the online backup providers.
Thanks for sharing this curated list of the best cloud backup services. I want to run a music website; basically, I’d write musical lyrics, add videos from my YouTube channel and also add a download link to each of the songs I write about. I know there are some free cloud services I could start with but I want to go for one that is reliable so I won’t have a problem in in the future.
I know this list is good but I am quite overwhelmed. Which one of these would you recommend for me that has cheap price, has fast downloading speed and reliable based on what I want to use it for?
Thanks so much.
Hello MrBiizy,
BigMind listed above would be a great fit for you in my opinion. It’s new software, it’s affordable, has decent speeds and is reliable.
Dejan