Best cloud storage platforms that make backing up your data a doddle
There are a few things to look for in a good cloud storage platform. For some, it's convenience. That might mean sticking with the service that comes bundled with your phone, laptop or broadband plan. For others, it's about reliability. You might want something that quietly backs up everything on your computer without needing to press a button.
Most platforms give you a bit of free space to get started, with the option to upgrade if you need more. You can back up specific folders, sync files across your devices or upload things manually when it suits you. Some services come with handy extras like file sharing or real-time collaboration tools. Others focus more on privacy and encryption.
One of the biggest benefits of going with a household name like Google or Microsoft is that you often get access to their full online Office suites as part of the package. But lesser-known services can be cheaper or offer better privacy tools. We've tested the best cloud storage platforms for 2025 to help you decide which one is right for you.
How we tested
We set up an account with eight of the top cloud storage platforms and tried them out across different devices, including laptops, smartphones and tablets. We looked at how easy each one was to use day to day, how quickly files uploaded and downloaded, and whether the mobile and desktop apps were up to scratch. We also explored what kind of features were included on each plan — things like version history, file sharing, collaborative tools and encryption settings.
We moved large and small files between devices, tested syncing speeds and tried backing up folders in bulk. In most cases, it wasn't the storage platform that slowed us down, but our own internet connection. We also took into account things like how much storage you get for free, how simple it is to upgrade, and whether any extra perks like office tools or family plans were useful additions.
Why you can trust us
Ian Evenden has been testing cloud storage platforms for years, comparing everything from file syncing and sharing features to security and ease of use. With a background in computing and tech journalism, he's reviewed everything from Chromebooks to antivirus software for IndyBest since 2021, so he knows what makes a service stand out.
The best cloud storage platforms for 2025 are:
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Reuters
38 minutes ago
- Reuters
Shut Three Mile Island nuclear plant may restart in 2027, owner says
THREE MILE ISLAND, Pennsylvania, June 25 (Reuters) - The former Three Mile Island nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania may restart in 2027, about a year ahead of schedule after being put on a fast track to connect to the regional grid, executives with the plant's owner Constellation Energy said on Wednesday. Constellation (CEG.O), opens new tab struck a deal last September to power Microsoft (MSFT.O), opens new tab data centers, paving the way to reopen Three Mile Island, widely known as the site of a partial meltdown in 1979 that chilled the nuclear industry. Constellation's 20-year power purchase agreement with Microsoft is emblematic of the dramatic lengths Big Tech has been willing to go to fuel its artificial intelligence expansion, which began to intensify a year-and-a-half ago. The reactor re-entering service at Three Mile Island, which is being renamed the Crane Clean Energy Center, was not part of the 1979 accident, and shut in 2019 for economic reasons. "We're on track to make history ahead of schedule, helping America achieve energy independence, supercharge economic growth, and win the global AI race,' Constellation CEO Joe Dominguez said. At the time of the restart announcement last year, Constellation said it expected the plant to re-open in 2028. Officials with the company said they expected the process to be slowed by wait times associated with connecting power projects to the regional grid, which is operated by PJM Interconnection. Power projects can linger in PJM's queue, which is essentially the application and engineering study process to hook up a power plant to the broader grid. PJM's territory spans 13 states and the District of Columbia, covering about 67 million customers. As a way to alleviate some of that bottleneck, particularly as data centers rapidly proliferate on PJM's territory, the country's largest grid operator has fast-tracked its interconnection process for select projects. As the technology industry drives U.S. electricity demand to record highs, nuclear power has broadly seen a resurgence of interest after decades in decline. New York said this week it plans to build a new nuclear power plant, which would be one of the first to be constructed in a generation. Despite the enthusiasm, nuclear power plant projects have historically been far over budget and behind schedule. No fully shut nuclear power plant has been restarted, but at least one other attempted restart - of the Palisades nuclear plant in Michigan - is under way.
The Guardian
an hour ago
- The Guardian
Dating app Bumble to lay off hundreds of staff amid turnaround bid
Dating app Bumble announced plans to lay off almost a third of its workforce as part of a bid to return to a 'start-up mentality' as it fights to revive growth. The Austin, Texas-based company is cutting about 240 roles, or 30% of its global staff, amid a turnaround effort. Its stock has tumbled since the firm went public in 2021. Founder Whitney Wolfe Herd, who stepped down as CEO in 2024 but returned earlier this year, said Bumble needed to take 'decisive action' in order 'to restructure to build a company that's resilient, intentional, and ready for the next decade' in an email to staff. 'We've reset our strategy, and are going back to a start-up mentality – rooted in an ownership mindset and team structures designed for faster, more meaningful execution,' she wrote. Shares in Bumble rallied some 24% during early trading in New York on Wednesday. Bumble said it will incur non-recurring charges of between $13m and $18m for employee severance, benefits and related charges, primarily during the third and fourth quarters of 2025. The company expects to generate 'up to' $40m in annual cost savings, which it plans to reinvest in initiatives such as product and technology development, according to a stock market filing. The company also raised its second-quarter revenue forecast to a range of $244m to $249m, up from the prior view of $235m to $243m. 'In recent months, we've been rebuilding – returning to what makes us trusted, unique, and deeply human,' wrote Herd. 'But intentional rebuilding requires hard decisions. Today, we are marking one of the most difficult: we are reducing the size of our team. This decision is not a reflection of any individual but rather where we are going as a company and what we are building for.' Reuters contributed reporting
Geeky Gadgets
an hour ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Did You Miss These? Top Hidden iOS 26 Features Revealed
Apple's iOS 26 introduces a suite of innovative features, a refreshed design, and smarter tools, redefining how you interact with your iPhone. This update focuses on personalization, efficiency, and functionality, ensuring a seamless and engaging user experience. From visual upgrades to practical enhancements, iOS 26 offers something for everyone. Below is an in-depth look at the most significant changes and hidden gems that make this update stand out in a new video from MacRumors. Watch this video on YouTube. Revamped Interface: A Modern Visual Upgrade The redesigned interface in iOS 26 is one of its most noticeable changes. The new 'liquid glass' design combines smooth animations with translucent glass elements, creating a sleek and modern aesthetic. The lock screen has been enhanced with spatial scenes, which use 3D photo effects to add depth and dimension, making your device feel more immersive. These updates not only enhance the visual appeal of your iPhone but also improve usability, offering a more intuitive and engaging experience. Enhanced Intelligence: Smarter Features for Everyday Use iOS 26 uses Apple Intelligence to deliver smarter, more context-aware features. Your iPhone can now analyze screenshots and suggest relevant actions, such as searching for information, adding events to your calendar, or linking to related content. The enhanced screenshot tools make editing and sharing easier, streamlining your workflow. These upgrades ensure your device works harder for you, helping you accomplish tasks faster and with less effort. Messages App: More Personalized and Dynamic Communication The Messages app has been reimagined to make conversations more engaging and tailored to your preferences. You can now customize conversation backgrounds for individual or group chats, adding a personal touch to your messages. Group chats have been upgraded with typing indicators and the ability to create and vote on polls, making collaboration more efficient. Additionally, the live translation feature enables seamless communication across languages in messages, phone calls, and FaceTime, automatically detecting and translating languages in real time. These updates make the Messages app a more powerful tool for staying connected. Streamlined Call Management Managing phone calls is now more efficient with iOS 26's new call assist features. Unknown callers are screened, and contextual information is provided to help you decide whether to answer. A virtual assistant can manage hold times, notifying you when the other party returns to the line. These tools are designed to save you time and reduce interruptions, making your day more productive. Maps App: A Smarter Way to Navigate The Maps app has been enhanced with a 'Visited Places' feature, which keeps a record of your location history. This addition is particularly useful for revisiting favorite spots or planning future trips. Whether you're reflecting on past travels or organizing your next adventure, this feature makes Maps a more versatile and practical tool. Music App: A Richer Listening Experience Music lovers will appreciate the updates to the Music app. A new audio mix feature enables seamless transitions between songs, creating a continuous listening experience. Full-screen album artwork, paired with matching backgrounds and animations, adds a visual element to your music. These features, exclusive to Apple Music subscribers, make listening more immersive and enjoyable. Games App: Your Centralized Gaming Hub Gaming on iOS 26 is more streamlined with the introduction of the Games app. This centralized hub provides access to all your games, including Apple Arcade titles and third-party apps. Integration with Game Center makes it easier to track achievements, browse games, and connect with friends for social gaming experiences. This unified approach simplifies how you access and enjoy your favorite games. Additional Features: Subtle Yet Impactful Improvements iOS 26 also introduces several smaller updates that enhance your overall experience: Adjustable snooze times in the Clock app, giving you more control over your alarms. Charging time estimates displayed on the lock screen, so you know exactly when your device will be ready. Adaptive power mode, which optimizes battery usage based on your habits and needs. Animated album artwork on the lock screen for Apple Music users, adding a dynamic visual element. Improved photo depth effects for the lock screen and Photos app, creating more immersive visuals. Elevating Your iPhone Experience iOS 26 is a comprehensive update that enhances every aspect of your iPhone. With its focus on personalization, smarter tools, and visual improvements, this update ensures your device feels more intuitive and engaging. Whether you're drawn to the redesigned interface, the advanced features, or the subtle quality-of-life enhancements, iOS 26 is designed to elevate how you interact with your iPhone every day. Uncover more insights about iOS 26 features in previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: MacRumors Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
