We can store data backup from our Android device to computers, SD cards or external hard drives. This is okay. But these physical devices are prone to various risks too, not to mention that it takes time to transfer and share files from one device to another. Something that using an Android cloud backup can solve. Many of the cloud storage backup for Android are available for free up to a certain storage limit. Such storage can be expanded by paying a monthly or annual plan, the price of which depends on the provider you use, number of users and included features. Plans are also generally categorized into personal and business cloud backup. Considering all these, we made a point-by-point comparison of some of the most-used backup cloud storage options for Android.
6 Cloud Storage Options for Android: Overview
Let’s take a general look at each of the 6 cloud storage options.
1. Box
Box is an online cloud backup for personal and business data. It is closely similar to Dropbox with an app downloadable for free at the Play Store. The first 10GB is free, with an unload limit of 250MB. Beyond this, you’ll need to pay a certain amount, depending on the plan, and whether it’s for personal or business use. With the app, you can access certain files even when offline. Box’s focus is not only on providing a safe data backup, but also on offering easier document sharing and collaboration. Key Features
10GB free cloud storageDifferent file uploads (documents, videos, photos, and others)Offline access to specific folders and filesSecurity controls (file-level)View and print files (more than 200 file types)Real-time search and updates feedAttachment-free file sharing (using a link)Large file sharingPartner apps-friendly
Pros The following are the main advantages of using Box cloud storage:
Sharing files without attachments (downloadable links)It allows you to set password and expiration dates on files for securityIts mobile apps allow you to view, upload and share different kinds of filesDesigned for easy collaboration and file managementKeep some files and items private, and make others publicFast file uploads and enhanced task management through the mobile app
Cons However, Box is not a perfect cloud storage solution. It also suffers from drawbacks, especially on its enterprise and business plans. Here are the main reasons that turn off potential users:
Minimum 3-user requirementMaximum 10-user on the starter planSome plans don’t have advanced features and custom brandingHigher-priced personal and business plans have an upload limit of 5GB
Nevertheless, despite these drawbacks, Box is still among the best cloud storage options out there. If you’re interested to check its mobile app, you can download it below.
2. Dropbox
Dropbox is designed for simplicity. No wonder why it’s one of the most popular cloud storage options. With Dropbox, you can easily store and share different types of files. Great for personal use or for collaborating on projects with a team. However, of the 6 options featured here, Dropbox has the most limited free storage, which is only 2GB. But they offer great monthly and annual plans for more storage, up to 1TB for personal plans and more than 1TB for business plans. Key Features
Easy storage and file access (from any device)Easy file sharing, even to those with no Dropbox accountReal-time updates, which let you know if someone changes, comments or moves the shared filesSave notes, receipts and others into PDF files (doc scanner-free)
Pros The following are the main reasons why you should choose Dropbox if you’re looking for a cloud backup storage.
Automatic data backup and restorationAdvanced software integrationOffline working functionsFile history featureEasy file synchronization
Cons Despite the great features of Dropbox, it has major flaws as well. The following are the disadvantages of using Dropbox:
2GB free storageIt lacks advanced security which makes it prone to risksIt is difficult to locate files and folders using searchNo real-time editing
Here’s an old comparison between Box, Dropbox and Google Drive. If you’re interested to give Dropbox a try, download the mobile app below.
3. Google Drive
Google Drive is easily accessible and is a safe storage option for most. It allows you to backup data from any device (phone, computer, tablet, etc.). The videos, documents, photos and other files in the Drive are automatically backed up. You can also invite others to certain files and folders. Invited people can view, comment and edit the files shared. Key Features
Safe file storage and file accessFiles can be searched by name, folder and contentEasy file and folder sharingQuick viewingSet access as to who can edit, comment and viewFile activity and detailsOffline file viewingDocument scanning
Pros The advantages of using Google Drive include the following:
Large free storageGreat file syncing (including desktop-to-desktop)Good for productivity and collaborationThird-party integrationsCross-platform apps
Cons Google Drive has a few disadvantages, namely:
Slow upload and download speedPrivacy and security concernsNo password protection
For additional reference, here’s an old comparison between Dropbox and Google Drive. In case you want to try Google Drive, get the app below.
4. MEGA
MEGA is best known for its unique encrypted cloud storage. The data is encrypted and can be decrypted only by the user, and not by MEGA. The files are encrypted not in MEGA’s servers, but on the user’s device. This ensures that private information will remain private. With MEGA, you can upload, store, download, view, share, delete, stream and edit files from any device. It also offers real-time updates on shared files and folders. The service is more focused on privacy, above all else. Key Features
50GB free storage upon signing upUp to 4TB of storage space with 8TB bandwidthEncrypted file sharing and collaborationUser-controlled, end-to-end encryptionEasy automated synchronizationFile versioning and historyAutomatic photo and video backup
Pros There are many things that people like about MEGA. The main advantages of using this cloud backup are as follows:
Easy access to filesUpload speed control through the browserMultiple file and folder downloadsEncrypted sharingSecure and private storage
Cons But there are a few things that people don’t like about MEGA. They include the following:
Bandwidth limit (10GB)No password protectionLacks advanced link sharing
If you’re convinced that MEGA is what suits your needs best, get the mobile app below.
5. Resilio Sync
Resilio Sync allows you to store data on a private cloud. Your data will not be remotely stored in cloud storage systems, which makes it different from other cloud backup solutions on the list. You can automatically backup and sync different file types without the need for third-party storage. However, since there’s no remote cloud storage system, you’ll be relying mostly on the storage capacity of your connected devices. The service is free for simple device-to-device file transfers. However, if you want advanced features, you’ll need to pay a one-time fee of $39. This fee is for lifetime access. Key Features
Sync data on SD card, hard drive and other devicesFaster transfer of synced folders and filesAutomatic video and photo backupEasy file access from any connected deviceNo storage limits (dependent on the device’s storage capacity)Encyrpted data
Pros
Runs on NASQuick setup of foldersEasy file access and sharingFree for basic featuresOne-time payment for advanced features (no monthly or annual fee)
Cons Resilio Sync, however, is technically more of a private cloud backup, which has various negative implications. The following are the major drawbacks of this storage backup solution:
Storage is dependent on the connected device’s storageNo file versioningNot too many advanced features
You can give Resilio Sync a try by downloading the app below.
6. SpiderOak
SpiderOak ONE is cloud storage that focuses on security and privacy. It’s most noted for its confidential backup feature, especially when it comes to protecting users from data loss and ransomware. The mobile app also lets you share files through a secure link. Key Features
Easy file accessView shared files easily through ShareRoomsSend files through a secure share linkOpen and share documents using other applicationsUnlimited devicesFile history versioningFast backup and download speed
Pros
Unlimited computer backupUnlimited file versioningDeleted file retentionPrivate encryptionSecure and private storage
Cons
Expensive compared with othersLacks 2-factor authenticationNo mobile backup
Download the mobile app if you decide to give this cloud storage a try.
Cloud Storage for Android: Storage Comparison
Of the 6 cloud storage options featured here, only 4 have indicated a clear free storage limit. The 2 either has no free storage (SpiderOak) or no limit since the storage is dependent upon the device or devices used (Resilio Sync). All 6 offer personal plans and business plans, each with different storage limits. Here’s an overview of the storage comparison of the cloud storage backups for Android:
Cloud Storage Options: Difference in Pricing
Each of the cloud storage options has its own pricing plans. While they offer free storage, it might not be sufficient especially if you’re using cloud backup for business. Now let’s take a look at the pricing plans and packages of each.
1. Box
For individuals who need to use Box cloud backup for personal purposes, you can use it for free. With this free service, you can secure and access data from anywhere using your Android device. There’s a 5 GB free storage with an upload limit of 250 MB. If you need more storage, you can purchase the Personal Pro plan. Designed for individuals who need flexible and more storage for personal files, this plan offers a 100 GB storage limit with an upload limit of 5 GB. You can also choose a plan for business purposes. Box offers 4 business plans, from a starter plan of 100 GB to an advanced plan of unlimited storage and users. Visit Box’s official website to learn more about their services and offers.
2. Dropbox
You can store and access files from multiple devices for free up to 2 GB using the Dropbox Basic. However, if you need more storage space and other features, you can sign up for the Plus or Professional plan. You can choose to be billed monthly or yearly. Here’s an overview of the 3 personal plans for individuals: But if you need an Android cloud backup for business, then Dropbox Business is more apt. Like the individual plan, the business plan has 3 available packages: Standard, Advanced and Enterprise. The pricing is generally based on the number of users, the storage limit, and the other included features. Want to know more about Dropbox? Feel free to visit their website.
3. Google Drive
Google Drive is most-known for its personal drive feature. You can use it for free for the first 15 GB. With this, you can store, access and even share your files across any Android device without costing you a cent. However, there’s also a business version of Google Drive, the Google Drive Enterprise. This does not only allow you to store, access and share various files. It is also designed to cater to the needs of your business, for integration, productivity and teamwork. For the Drive Enterprise pricing, there are no storage limits. You will just have to pay $8 per user per month. Check out this page if you want to understand how Google Drive Enterprise works and what are its other features.
4. MEGA
When you create an account with MEGA, you will get free storage of up to 50 GB. While such storage is already large enough, there may be instances when you need more storage and advanced features. You can upgrade your personal account by getting the Pro plan, with a starting monthly pricing of €4.99 or approximately $5.60 per month. There’s also a Business plan for unlimited storage for teams, from €10.00 or around $11.30 per user per month. Feel free to visit MEGA’s official site to learn more about their cloud backup services.
5. Resilio Sync
There are 3 basic plans offered by Resilio Sync. The Sync Home is for individuals who need to sync files for personal use only. For this plan, you’ll only need to make a one-time payment of $59.99. If you need something for the family, up to 5 users, you can choose the Sync Family. Like the first, this also only requires a one-time payment of $99.99. However, if you need to use Resilio Sync for business, you can purchase it with a monthly payment of $29 or more, depending on the business plan you choose. Visit Resilio Sync’s website and learn all you need to know about this cloud backup solution.
6. SpiderOak ONE
Unlike the others, SpiderOak ONE does not offer free storage. In lieu of free storage, it instead offers a 21-day free trial. The cheapest monthly plan is $6 for 150 GB storage. But if you want to max it up, you can choose the $29 per month plan of 5 TB storage. All plans are for unlimited devices. Moreover, instead of paying monthly, you can opt to get billed annually. Learn more about SpiderOak ONE backup cloud storage by visiting this website.
Choose Your Backup Cloud Storage
The 6 backup cloud storage solutions reviewed here each has its strengths and weaknesses. There are those that focused more on privacy, while others more on ease-of-use. Which is the best backup storage ultimately depends on your personal preference. We hope that through this comparison, you have found which cloud backup is best for you or your business. Let us know what you think and leave a comment below. Featured Image
