Which cloud storage is cheapest?
It depends on how much you need. For small amounts (under 100GB), Google One often wins. For 1TB+, OneDrive with Microsoft 365 offers great value since it includes Office apps. For Apple users, iCloud+ integrates best with your devices.
Are the free tiers enough for most people?
Google's 15GB free tier works for email and documents. But if you back up photos or have multiple devices, you'll likely need paid storage. The average smartphone takes 3-5GB of photos per year alone.
Can I use multiple cloud services together?
Yes, and many people do. Common setups: iCloud for device backups, Google Drive for documents/collaboration, and Dropbox for sharing with others. Just watch out for total costs adding up.
What about family plans?
Most providers offer family sharing. Google One and iCloud+ let you share storage with up to 5 family members. Microsoft 365 Family gives each person their own 1TB (6TB total). Family plans are often better value than individual plans.
Is cloud storage secure?
Major providers use strong encryption for data in transit and at rest. For extra security, enable two-factor authentication. For sensitive files, consider providers with zero-knowledge encryption (like Tresorit or Sync.com) where even the provider can't access your data.
Should I pay monthly or yearly?
Yearly plans typically save 15-20% compared to monthly billing. If you're committed to a service, annual payment makes sense. Monthly is better if you're trying a new service or your needs might change.