iCloud vs Google Drive: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between iCloud and Google Drive comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
iCloud
Apple cloud storage and sync
Best for you if:
- • Apple cloud storage service that syncs photos, files, passwords, and device backups across all Apple devices.
- • Offers iCloud Drive for documents, iCloud Photos for media library, and seamless integration with iOS and macOS.
Google Drive
Cloud storage by Google
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.7/10)
- • Cloud storage integrated with Google Workspace including Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail.
- • Features AI-powered file search, real-time collaboration, and sharing with granular permissions.
| At a Glance |  iCloud |  Google Drive |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | File Management | File Management |
Rating | 87/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | iCloud | Google Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | File ManagementCloud Storage | File ManagementWorkflow Automation |
How iCloud and Google Drive Compare
iCloud
Apple cloud storage and sync
Free tier available · 87/100 score
Google Drive
Cloud storage by Google
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: iCloud
Want the highest-rated option?
iCloud: 87/100. Google Drive: 88/100.
Go with: Google Drive
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Google Drive
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are file management tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Google Drive scores higher: 88/100 vs 87/100.
Key Takeaways
Google Drive
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 87
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
iCloud
The Bottom Line
Google Drive (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is iCloud or Google Drive better?
Google Drive scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are iCloud and Google Drive used for?
iCloud: Apple cloud storage and sync. Google Drive: Cloud storage by Google.
What does iCloud cost vs Google Drive?
iCloud is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Google Drive is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.