Storage space
First consider how much storage space you actually need. Smaller plans are often sufficient for personal documents, whereas photos, videos, backups or team projects can quickly require significantly more storage.
Cloud Storage Comparison UK 2026
Are you looking for the perfect cloud storage for your data in the UK? Here you will find curated offers whose cloud solutions let you securely store, edit and share your most important files.
Explore the managed cloud storage offers based on Nextcloud, ownCloud, Seafile, HiDrive or other cloud storage solutions from various web hosting providers:
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Cloud storage comparison
Cloud storage providers compared
Do you want to store files online, share documents securely, create backups or work together on projects as a team? Then cloud storage is a flexible solution for individuals, the self-employed and businesses. Compare suitable cloud storage providers here and find the solution that meets your requirements.
Simply explained
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage refers to online storage space where files, documents, images, videos, backups or project data can be stored over the internet. Instead of storing data exclusively on a computer, smartphone or external hard drive, they are kept on a cloud provider's servers and can be accessed from various devices.
The major advantage is flexibility: you can access files on the go, share documents with others, synchronise data across multiple devices and, depending on the provider, even collaborate on documents in real time. Many cloud storage solutions also include features for automatic backups, version control, shareable links, team folders or Office integration.
Cloud storage is suitable for both individuals and businesses. While private customers often want to back up photos, documents and personal files, companies focus on aspects such as collaboration, data protection, user management, access rights and data backup.
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Store files securely and access them anywhere
With cloud storage you can store your data centrally online and access it from a laptop, smartphone, tablet or desktop PC. This is particularly useful for mobile working, team projects and backing up important files.
Use cases
What is cloud storage used for?
Cloud storage can be used for many different use cases. Depending on the provider, the range extends from simple file storage to full collaboration and office platforms.
Store files
Documents, images, videos, PDFs and project files can be stored centrally and accessed from multiple devices. This is particularly practical when files should not be stored only locally on a single device.
Share files
Many cloud storage services offer shareable links, password protection, expiry dates or targeted shares for specific people. This makes it easier to exchange files with customers, colleagues or partners.
Create backups
Cloud storage with backup can be used to secure important data. Automatic synchronisation, versioning and recovery features are particularly helpful.
Team collaboration
For teams, shared folders, user permissions, commenting features and Office integration are important. This allows multiple people to work on the same files or documents.
Back up photos & media
Individual users often use cloud storage to back up photos, videos and personal documents. Many providers offer apps with automatic upload from smartphones for this.
Manage business data
Businesses use encrypted cloud storage for project files, contracts, client data, internal documents and collaboration across multiple locations. Data protection, permissions management and clear administration features are important here.
Advantages & Limitations
What advantages does cloud storage offer?
Cloud storage offers more than just extra storage space. Modern solutions combine data backup, synchronisation, collaboration and flexible access options in a single platform.
Advantages of cloud storage
- Access files from multiple devices and locations
- Easy synchronisation between desktop, smartphone and tablet
- Quick sharing of files and folders via link or invitation
- Useful for mobile working and home working
- Depending on the provider, automatic backups and versioning
- Team collaboration with shared folders and permissions
- Storage can be scaled flexibly
- No need for your own storage hardware
What to look out for
- Data protection and server location vary between providers
- Access is limited without an internet connection
- Large amounts of data can take a long time to synchronise depending on the connection
- Free plans often have limited storage
- Not all solutions are suitable for sensitive business data
- Sharing settings and user permissions must be managed carefully
- Cloud storage does not automatically replace a comprehensive backup strategy
Selection criteria
What should you consider when comparing cloud storage?
Cloud storage providers differ in more than just storage space. Equally important are data protection, security, ease of use, synchronisation, sharing features, team management, office integration and the pricing model.
Data protection & server location
For businesses and privacy-conscious users, where data is stored is important. Providers with servers located in Germany, the EU or Switzerland can be particularly relevant depending on the project.
Encryption
Check whether data is encrypted in transit and at rest. For especially sensitive data, additional encryption features or zero-knowledge approaches may be relevant.
Synchronisation
Good cloud storage services offer apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and the browser. It is important that files are reliably synchronised and conflicts are handled properly.
Sharing & permissions
Differentiated access rights are important for teams. Check whether folders can be shared as read-only, whether passwords and expiry dates are supported, and whether shares can be managed centrally.
Backup features
Not every cloud storage service is automatically a full backup solution. Look for versioning, a recycle bin, recovery options, automatic backups and protection against accidental deletion.
Office & collaboration
If you want to work on documents together, office tools, commenting, co-editing and integrations with existing applications are particularly important.
Costs & pricing model
Don't compare only storage per pound. Also important are user limits, additional features, business plans, contract durations, upgrades and potential costs as storage needs grow.
Terms explained
Important cloud storage terms, simply explained
When comparing cloud storage offerings you will encounter various technical and organisational terms. The most important ones can be quickly categorised.
Synchronisation
Synchronisation means that files are automatically synchronised between the cloud and devices. Changes therefore appear on multiple devices.
Shareable link
A shareable link lets you share files or folders with others without having to send them as email attachments.
Versioning
Versioning stores older file states. This often allows accidentally changed or deleted files to be restored.
End-to-end encryption
With end-to-end encryption, data is encrypted so that only authorised users can decrypt it.
Zero-knowledge
Zero-knowledge means the provider itself should have no access to the contents of your encrypted data.
Team folder
Team folders enable multiple users to have shared access to selected files and projects.
Cloud backup
A cloud backup automatically secures data online. Important aspects are recovery, versioning and protection against accidental deletion.
Office integration
Office integration enables editing text documents, spreadsheets and presentations directly in the browser or in connected apps.
Selection guide
Which cloud storage is suitable for which purpose?
Not every cloud storage solution is equally suitable for every use case. While private users often need simple synchronisation and photo storage, businesses place greater emphasis on data protection, access rights management and collaboration.
For private users
- easy to use and good apps are important
- back up photos, documents and personal files
- free storage can be sufficient to get started
- consider synchronisation between smartphone and computer
- sharing with family and friends is convenient
For the self-employed
- professional file storage for projects and clients
- secure sharing and a clear folder structure are important
- Office integration can streamline workflows
- consider data protection and server location
- check versioning and backup features
For businesses
- user management and permission models are important
- check team folders, sharing policies and audit functions
- consider GDPR, data processing agreement (DPA) and server location
- integration with existing systems is advisable
- compare support, availability and scalability
For backups
- automatic backup of important files
- versioning and recovery are essential
- ensure protection against accidental deletion
- calculate storage requirements realistically
- include cloud storage in your backup strategy
Popular solutions
Popular cloud storage providers and solutions
There are many different cloud storage providers with varying focuses. Some solutions are closely tied to office programmes, others focus on privacy, backup, team collaboration or self-hosted cloud environments.
Office & everyday use
Google Drive
Google Drive is closely integrated with Google services such as Gmail, Google Docs, Sheets and Slides. The solution is particularly suitable for users who already work within the Google ecosystem.
Microsoft integration
Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive is tightly integrated with Microsoft 365 and Windows. It is especially relevant for users of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Teams.
Apple ecosystem
Apple iCloud
iCloud is particularly appealing to users of iPhone, iPad and Mac. Photos, files, backups and device data can be conveniently synchronised within the Apple ecosystem.
File sync
Dropbox
Dropbox is known for simple file synchronisation, sharing and integrations with many applications. The solution is suitable for private users, teams and project-based work.
Privacy & pricing
pCloud
pCloud is a cloud storage provider focused on file storage, synchronisation and optional additional features. Depending on needs, specific pricing models and privacy features can be particularly interesting.
Business
Box
Box is aimed primarily at businesses and teams. The focus is on collaboration, file sharing, permissions management and business features.
Switzerland
kSuite
kSuite combines cloud storage with additional productivity features. The solution may be of interest to users who value a provider from Switzerland and extra online tools.
Self-hosting
Nextcloud & ownCloud
Nextcloud and ownCloud enable self-hosted or professionally hosted cloud storage environments. They are particularly interesting when control, extensibility and privacy are the main priorities.
Hosting providers
HiDrive
HiDrive is a cloud storage solution that is particularly well known among German hosting providers. It is suitable for file storage, data backup and access across various devices.
Comparison
Overview of cloud storage providers
The following overview shows typical focus areas of well-known cloud storage solutions. For a concrete choice you should also compare storage space, data protection, costs, sharing features and business capabilities.
| Provider / Solution | Suitable for | Strengths | What to look out for | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Drive | private users, teams, Google Workspace users | Office integration, collaboration, ease of use | Check data protection, storage requirements and the Google ecosystem | strong for users who already use Google services |
| Microsoft OneDrive | Microsoft 365 users, Windows users, businesses | tight integration with Office, Windows and Teams | Compare pricing plans and business requirements | a natural choice for Microsoft-oriented work environments |
| Apple iCloud | iPhone, iPad and Mac users | simple synchronisation within the Apple ecosystem | less neutral in mixed-device environments | convenient for users with multiple Apple devices |
| Dropbox | private users, teams, project-based collaboration | strong file synchronisation and sharing features | Check costs and business features | proven solution for file storage and sharing |
| pCloud | private users, privacy-conscious users | file storage, synchronisation, optional additional features | Check encryption, pricing model and location | appealing for users focused on storage and data protection |
| Box | businesses, teams, enterprise environments | collaboration, access control, business features | Compare pricing structure and integrations | strong for professional team and enterprise use |
| kSuite | users focused on Switzerland, data protection and productivity | cloud storage combined with additional online tools | Match functionality and storage needs | an interesting European or Swiss alternative |
| Nextcloud / ownCloud | self-hosting, businesses, privacy-sensitive projects | high level of control, extensibility, self-hosting options | Consider administration, updates and hosting environment | strong for users seeking control and customisability |
| HiDrive | private users, businesses, backup and file storage | cloud storage within a hosting environment, access across multiple devices | Check plans, protocols, backup features and location | practical for traditional file storage and backup |
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Don't just compare storage space
The best cloud storage provider is not automatically the one with the most storage space. More important are usability, security, data protection, sharing features, device support, backup options and whether the solution fits your workflow.
Focus areas
Cloud storage with specialised requirements
Depending on the intended use, a particular focus area can be especially important. Many providers differ significantly in data protection, backup features, sustainability or collaboration.
Cloud storage for backups
If cloud storage is to be used for data backup, automatic backups, versioning, restoration and protection against accidental deletion are particularly important.
Cloud storage in Germany
For businesses with German customers or sensitive data, a cloud storage provider with servers located in Germany can be of interest. Also crucial are GDPR compliance, a data processing agreement (DPA) and transparent privacy policies.
Encrypted cloud storage
For confidential data, strong encryption should be prioritised. Depending on security requirements, additional client-side encryption or zero-knowledge features may be advisable.
Green cloud storage
If sustainability is important, providers offering green cloud storage with renewable energy, energy-efficient data centres or transparent sustainability information may be preferred.
Cloud storage for teams
For teams, user management, shared folders, roles, sharing policies, commenting features and Office integration are particularly important.
Self-hosted cloud storage
With solutions such as Nextcloud or ownCloud, cloud storage can also be run on your own or rented infrastructure. This offers more control but requires greater technical responsibility.
Recommendation
How to find the right cloud storage
The right cloud storage depends greatly on how you use your data. For personal use, ease of use, apps and photo synchronisation are often the priority. For businesses, data protection, permissions management, backup features and collaboration are more important.
For personal use:
look for easy-to-use apps, sufficient storage, photo synchronisation, sharing features and fair pricing.
For businesses:
check GDPR, server location, user management, permissions, support and a Data Processing Agreement (DPA).
For backups:
compare versioning, recovery, automation, storage space and security.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about cloud storage
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage is online storage where files are stored over the internet. Users can access their data from different devices, synchronise files and share content with others.
What is cloud storage suitable for?
Cloud storage is suitable for file storage, synchronisation, data exchange, team collaboration, photos, documents, backups and collaboration across locations.
Is cloud storage secure?
Cloud storage can be secure if the provider offers encryption, secure logins, two-factor authentication, reliable data centres and transparent data protection measures. Users should additionally use strong passwords and careful sharing settings.
Is cloud storage a backup?
Not automatically. Cloud storage often synchronises files between devices. For true backups, versioning, recovery, separate backups and protection against accidental deletion are important.
What is the difference between cloud storage and cloud backup?
Cloud storage is primarily for accessing, sharing and synchronising files. Cloud backup is more focused on automatic backup and recovery after data loss.
Which cloud storage is suitable for businesses?
For businesses, data protection, server location, user management, permission assignment, sharing policies, support, data processing agreements and integrations into existing workflows are particularly important.
What does encrypted cloud storage mean?
Encrypted cloud storage protects data using cryptographic methods. It is important to distinguish whether data is encrypted only in transit, also at rest, or additionally end-to-end encrypted.
What is Nextcloud?
Nextcloud is a cloud storage solution that can be self-hosted or provided by vendors. It offers file storage, sharing, calendars, contacts, office integration and many extension possibilities.
What is ownCloud?
ownCloud is a cloud platform for file storage, synchronisation and collaboration. It is similar to Nextcloud in many areas and is often used for self-hosted cloud environments.
What should I pay attention to when comparing cloud storage?
Important factors are storage space, costs, apps, synchronisation, sharing, data protection, server location, encryption, backup features, office integration, user management and support.
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