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Best Cloud Storage Tools in 2026

Cloud storage and file hosting

28 tools evaluated · 10 top picks · Updated June 2026

Key Takeaways
  • Google Drive is our #1 pick for cloud storage in 2026.
  • We analyzed 28 cloud storage tools to create this ranking.
  • 4 tools offer free plans, perfect for getting started.

Cloud storage has consolidated around suite-bundled providers (Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud) and independent specialists (Dropbox, Box, Proton Drive). The decision is mostly about which ecosystem you're already in — most users don't actively choose cloud storage.

7 top cloud storage tools compared

Starting price, average user rating, and our pick for each category.

ToolOur takeStarting priceRating
Google Drive logo
Google Drive
Best overallFree + paid4.8
iCloud logo
iCloud
Community favoriteFree + paid4.7
OneDrive logo
OneDrive
Solid pickFree + paid4.5
AWS S3 logo
AWS S3
Solid pickContact sales4.7
iDrive logo
iDrive
Solid pickFree + paid4.5
Egnyte logo
Egnyte
Solid pickContact sales4.4
Tresorit logo
Tresorit
Solid pickContact sales4.6

How the Top Cloud Storage Tools Compare

The cloud storage category is highly competitive in 2026, with Google Drive and iCloud both ranking among the top choices on Toolradar's assessment, followed closely by OneDrive. The tight competition reflects how mature this market has become.

Pricing varies significantly among the top picks: Google Drive (freemium (free tier available)), iCloud (freemium (free tier available)), OneDrive (freemium (free tier available)) offer free access, while AWS S3 requires a paid subscription. Teams on a budget should start with Google Drive, which delivers strong value despite its free tier.

Computed from live tool ratings, review counts, and editorial scores.Editorial policy
01
Google Drive logo

Cloud storage and collaboration with 15GB free

Freemium4.8/528,494 ratings

Google Drive is Google's cloud storage and collaboration platform with 15GB free. Seamlessly integrates with Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides for real-time collaboration. Search uses Google's powerful AI to find files by content, not just names. Share files and folders with granular permissions. Mobile apps, desktop sync, and web access keep files everywhere. The cloud storage that billions trust for personal and work files.

02
iCloud logo

Sync files, photos, and data across all your Apple devices

Freemium4.7/51,919 ratings

iCloud syncs files, photos, and data across Apple devices seamlessly. Users access documents from any device, back up iPhones automatically, and share storage with family members. The service has become essential infrastructure for anyone invested in the Apple ecosystem.

03
OneDrive logo

Seamless cloud storage for Windows and Microsoft 365

Freemium4.5/512,492 ratings

OneDrive is Microsoft's cloud storage integrated deeply with Windows and Microsoft 365. Files sync seamlessly across devices with real-time collaboration on Office documents. Personal Vault adds extra security for sensitive files. Features include PC backup, file recovery, and sharing controls. Family and business plans offer generous storage. The cloud storage that comes free with Windows and shines for Microsoft 365 users.

04
AWS S3 logo

Scalable object storage by Amazon

Paid4.7/52,049 ratings

Amazon S3 is an object storage service offering industry-leading scalability, data availability, security, and performance. It is the foundation of cloud storage.

05
iDrive logo

Multi-computer cloud backup and storage solutions for home, business, and enterprises.

Freemium4.5/53,669 ratings

IDrive offers comprehensive cloud backup and storage solutions designed for individuals, teams, and businesses. It provides secure backup for multiple devices including PCs, Macs, Linux, iPhones, iPads, Android devices, and servers, all managed from a single account. Key features include real-time file syncing with Cloud Drive, versioning and snapshots for point-in-time recovery, and physical data transfer via IDrive Express for large backups and restores. The platform also extends its backup capabilities to cloud applications like Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Dropbox, and Box, ensuring data protection against accidental deletions, cyber-attacks, and ransomware. IDrive caters to various needs with plans like Personal, Team, Business, and Enterprise, offering scalable storage, user management, and compliance features like HIPAA and GDPR. Additionally, it provides IDrive® e2, an S3-compatible hot cloud object storage solution that is cost-effective and secure.

06
Egnyte logo

AI-powered content cloud for secure enterprise file sharing, collaboration, and governance.

Paid4.4/51,241 ratings

Egnyte is an AI-powered content cloud platform designed for enterprises to manage, secure, and collaborate on mission-critical content. It unifies files, applications, and workflows on a reliable platform, enabling teams to share and co-edit complex files without version conflicts or VPN headaches. The platform integrates secure AI to deliver context-rich insights from files, respecting user access permissions, and offers dynamic safeguards for data protection. Egnyte provides robust governance features, including flexible permissions, compliance adherence (GDPR, HIPAA, CMMC, SEC, FINRA, ALCOA+, GxP, ICH E6(R3)), continuous protection, anomaly detection, and built-in audit trails. It offers industry-specific solutions for Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC), Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Media and Entertainment, addressing their unique collaboration, compliance, and data management needs. The platform aims to reduce IT costs by consolidating data repositories and eliminating legacy infrastructure, while also boosting productivity through efficient collaboration and workflow automation.

Egnyte UI screenshot
07
Tresorit logo

End-to-end encrypted cloud storage for your most sensitive business data

Paid4.6/5381 ratings

Tresorit is end-to-end encrypted cloud storage for businesses handling sensitive data. Zero-knowledge encryption means even Tresorit can't access your files. Share files securely with password protection and expiration dates. GDPR compliant and certified for healthcare, legal, and finance industries. Features include digital rights management and secure collaboration. Cloud storage you can trust with your most confidential information.

08
DigitalOcean Spaces logo

Scalable object storage for developers

Paid4.6/5207 ratings

DigitalOcean Spaces is an S3-compatible object storage service with a built-in CDN. It offers simple, predictable pricing for storing and serving files.

DigitalOcean Spaces UI screenshot
09
Carbonite logo

Effortless, continuous backup and recovery for all your devices

Paid4.4/5255 ratings

Carbonite is a cloud backup service that automatically protects your files and data. Set it once and Carbonite continuously backs up your computers in the background. Recover files from any computer or mobile device. Features include file versioning, external drive backup, and ransomware protection. Carbonite offers plans for home users and businesses with server backup capabilities. Simple, set-and-forget protection for your important data.

10
Icedrive logo

Next-generation cloud storage that feels like a physical hard drive, with 10GB free.

Paid3.9/5509 ratings

Icedrive offers cloud storage that integrates seamlessly with your computer, making your cloud files feel like they're stored locally without taking up physical disk space. This is achieved through its revolutionary drive mounting software, allowing users to access, manage, and update cloud storage directly from their desktop. The platform provides extensive cloud storage apps across various platforms, including desktop, mobile, and web, catering to a wide range of users from avid photographers to busy professionals. It emphasizes security with zero-knowledge encryption included on all plans, ensuring privacy for your data. Icedrive is continuously evolving, with new features and applications regularly added to enhance the user experience. Icedrive is ideal for individuals and professionals seeking secure, accessible, and integrated cloud storage solutions. It offers both subscription-based and lifetime plans, providing flexibility for different usage needs, from casual backups to high-frequency archival workflows.

Why these cloud storage tools didn't make our top 10.

We evaluated 28 cloud storage tools and these 18 ranked 11 through 28. They're solid options that fell short on one or two axes (review depth, pricing transparency, feature parity), but worth a look if the leaders don't fit your stack or budget.

Backblaze logo
Backblaze
Affordable cloud storage and backup for everyone
MEGA logo
MEGA
Secure encrypted cloud storage, communication, and privacy tools for everyone.
IPVanish logo
IPVanish
Digital Security, Privacy, & Freedom with VPN, Secure Browser, and Cloud Storage.
Kolab Now logo
Kolab Now
Secure and private email, calendar, and file storage for individuals and teams.
Wasabi logo
Wasabi
Fast, affordable S3-compatible cloud storage without egress fees
Koofr logo
Koofr
One secure, privacy-focused European cloud storage for all your documents and files.
Sync.com logo
Sync.com
Secure cloud storage with end-to-end encryption for privacy and collaboration.
SmugMug logo
SmugMug
Create, store, share, and grow your photography business with an all-in-one platform.
Internxt logo
Internxt
Private by default, secure by design, and free as in freedom cloud storage and privacy suite.
Duplicati logo
Duplicati
Secure, encrypted backups to cloud storage and remote servers
Proton Drive logo
Proton Drive
End-to-end encrypted cloud storage that keeps your files safe and private.
Files SDK logo
Files SDK
A unified storage SDK for object and blob backends with a single, honest API.
Smmall Cloud for iOS logo
Smmall Cloud for iOS
Private file sharing for creators, with branded pages and client inbox
Ente Locker logo
Ente Locker
Securely store and share your most important documents, passwords, and sensitive information.
Mailbox.org logo
Mailbox.org
Secure and private email, cloud storage, video conferencing, and office suite for individuals and businesses.
Disroot logo
Disroot
Online services built on freedom, privacy, federation, and decentralization.
Padloc logo
Padloc
Open-source, end-to-end encrypted password manager with secure note-taking and file storage.
Tigris Data logo
Tigris Data
Multi-cloud object storage reimagined for high-performance data and AI workloads with Git-style workflows.

Browse all cloud storage tools

28 tools
Google Drive logo
Google Drive
Cloud storage and collaboration with 15GB free
freemium· Web
iCloud logo
iCloud
Sync files, photos, and data across all your Apple devices
freemium· Web
OneDrive logo
OneDrive
Seamless cloud storage for Windows and Microsoft 365
freemium
AWS S3 logo
AWS S3
Scalable object storage by Amazon
paid· Web
iDrive logo
iDrive
Multi-computer cloud backup and storage solutions for home, business, and enterprises.
freemium· Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux
Egnyte logo
Egnyte
AI-powered content cloud for secure enterprise file sharing, collaboration, and governance.
paid· Web
Tresorit logo
Tresorit
End-to-end encrypted cloud storage for your most sensitive business data
paid· Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
DigitalOcean Spaces logo
DigitalOcean Spaces
Scalable object storage for developers
paid· Web
Carbonite logo
Carbonite
Effortless, continuous backup and recovery for all your devices
paid· Web, Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
Icedrive logo
Icedrive
Next-generation cloud storage that feels like a physical hard drive, with 10GB free.
paid· Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Backblaze logo
Backblaze
Affordable cloud storage and backup for everyone
paid· Web, macOS, Windows
MEGA logo
MEGA
Secure encrypted cloud storage, communication, and privacy tools for everyone.
freemium· Web
IPVanish logo
IPVanish
Digital Security, Privacy, & Freedom with VPN, Secure Browser, and Cloud Storage.
paid· Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Kolab Now logo
Kolab Now
Secure and private email, calendar, and file storage for individuals and teams.
freemium· Web
Wasabi logo
Wasabi
Fast, affordable S3-compatible cloud storage without egress fees
paid· Web
Koofr logo
Koofr
One secure, privacy-focused European cloud storage for all your documents and files.
free· Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Sync.com logo
Sync.com
Secure cloud storage with end-to-end encryption for privacy and collaboration.
freemium· Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
SmugMug logo
SmugMug
Create, store, share, and grow your photography business with an all-in-one platform.
paid· Web
Internxt logo
Internxt
Private by default, secure by design, and free as in freedom cloud storage and privacy suite.
freemium· Web
Duplicati logo
Duplicati
Secure, encrypted backups to cloud storage and remote servers
free· Web, Windows, macOS, Linux
Proton Drive logo
Proton Drive
End-to-end encrypted cloud storage that keeps your files safe and private.
freemium· Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Web
Files SDK logo
Files SDK
A unified storage SDK for object and blob backends with a single, honest API.
free· Web
Ente Locker logo
Ente Locker
Securely store and share your most important documents, passwords, and sensitive information.
freemium· Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux
Smmall Cloud for iOS logo
Smmall Cloud for iOS
Private file sharing for creators, with branded pages and client inbox
freemium
Mailbox.org logo
Mailbox.org
Secure and private email, cloud storage, video conferencing, and office suite for individuals and businesses.
paid· Web
Disroot logo
Disroot
Online services built on freedom, privacy, federation, and decentralization.
free· Web, Android
Tigris Data logo
Tigris Data
Multi-cloud object storage reimagined for high-performance data and AI workloads with Git-style workflows.
freemium· Web
Padloc logo
Padloc
Open-source, end-to-end encrypted password manager with secure note-taking and file storage.
freemium· Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Web, Chrome

In-depth: why these tools made the cut

OneDrive logo

OneDrive is bundled with Microsoft 365 (1TB per user on most plans) and integrates with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. For Microsoft shops, switching to Dropbox or Drive adds cost for no clear benefit. SharePoint (the team/site layer) extends this for organizational document management.

OneDrive's sync client has been historically buggy; Microsoft has improved it significantly. For Apple-heavy or Linux organizations, the cross-platform support feels less polished than Dropbox. Within Microsoft shops, OneDrive wins by default; outside them, it has less appeal.

How to choose cloud storage software

  1. Default to your suite

    Google Workspace → Google Drive. Microsoft 365 → OneDrive/SharePoint. Apple ecosystem → iCloud. The bundled storage is included in your existing license and integrates better than third-party. Switching away requires real reason.

  2. Decide on independence + privacy

    If you don't want big-tech as your storage layer: Proton Drive (privacy-focused, EU-based), Mega (encrypted), Sync.com (zero-knowledge). Trade-offs: smaller ecosystem, weaker app integration, but no Big Tech data exposure.

  3. Plan for collaboration needs

    Drive and OneDrive's real-time co-editing with Google Docs/Word is essential for collaborative work. Dropbox's third-party integrations (Paper, Figma, etc.) are stronger than its native docs. Match to your collaboration patterns.

Honorable mentions

Tools that didn't crack the headline list but deserve a look depending on what you optimize for.

  • Cloudflare R2 logo
    Cloudflare R2Best for developer object storage

    Cloudflare R2 (and AWS S3, Backblaze B2) is object storage for developers, not consumer cloud storage. Listed because of overlap; useful for dev workloads, not for personal file sync.

Best Cloud Storage for

How we ranked these cloud storage tools

We rank by real-world signal: verified user ratings aggregated from G2, Capterra, and our own community, the volume and recency of media coverage, and hands-on editorial review for the tools we cover in depth. Pricing is re-checked and the ranking refreshed monthly. We do not sell placement in this list.

Tools reviewed
28
With free tier
61%
Last updated
June 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cloud storage tool in 2026?

Based on our analysis of 28 cloud storage tools, Google Drive ranks #1 on Toolradar's assessment. The runners-up are iCloud, OneDrive, AWS S3. Our rankings are based on features, pricing, user reviews, and real-world testing across 28 products.

What are the top 3 cloud storage tools?

The top 3 cloud storage tools in 2026, ranked by Toolradar, are: 1) Google Drive, Cloud storage and collaboration with 15GB free. 2) iCloud, Sync files, photos, and data across all your Apple devices. 3) OneDrive, Seamless cloud storage for Windows and Microsoft 365.

Are there free cloud storage tools?

Yes: 4 out of our top 10 cloud storage tools offer free or freemium plans. The top free options are Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive. Free plans typically include core features with usage limits.

How do I choose the right cloud storage tool?

Start by defining your team size, budget, and must-have features. Google Drive is the top-rated option overall. For budget-conscious teams, Google Drive offers strong value. Compare all 28 options side-by-side on Toolradar, where we evaluate features, pricing, ease of use, and user reviews.

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