Best Cloud Backup for NAS in 2026
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We evaluated cloud backup services based on pricing transparency, native NAS integration, storage limits, and data recovery features. This ranking is designed for individuals and businesses using Network-Attached Storage devices like Synology and QNAP who need reliable off-site data protection.
How we ranked these
At a glance
| # | Product | Score | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IDrive | 9.2 | Users needing multi-device coverage under one plan with flexible storage tiers |
| 2 | Backblaze B2 | 8.8 | Users seeking cheap IaaS storage or those using backup managers to connect NAS to cloud |
| 3 | ElephantDrive | 8.5 | Users of specific NAS brands seeking cost-effective, dedicated solutions |
| 4 | Carbonite | 7.9 | Businesses prioritizing multi-computer coverage with structured tiered plans |
IDrive
9.2- Unlimited devices covered under one subscription
- True archiving: files remain stored until manually deleted
- Incremental backups transfer only modified file portions
- Plans range from $9.95/mo (5 TB) to $99.95/mo (100 TB)
- Storage overage costs ~$0.25 to $0.50 per GB
- Requires manual pruning to avoid limit fees
- No specific native NAS plugin mentioned; relies on mapped drives
Best for: Users needing multi-device coverage under one plan with flexible storage tiers
Backblaze B2
8.8- Direct NAS support for Synology devices without plugins
- Low storage cost at $0.005/GB/month
- Strong file versioning and recovery capabilities
- First 1 GB of downloads per day is free
- Download costs apply at $0.01/GB after the daily 1 GB free quota
- General NAS support requires third-party backup managers like CloudBerry
- No fixed monthly plan; pay-as-you-go model
Best for: Users seeking cheap IaaS storage or those using backup managers to connect NAS to cloud
ElephantDrive
8.5- Specialized integration for QNAP, Synology, WD, and D-Link NAS
- Optional zero-knowledge encryption
- Supports 10 devices per plan
- Paid plans start at $10/month for 1 TB
- Limited information on specific drawbacks or overage policies
- Higher entry price compared to Backblaze B2's pay-as-you-go
- Fewer device slots than IDrive's unlimited offering
Best for: Users of specific NAS brands seeking cost-effective, dedicated solutions
Carbonite
7.9- Virtual Drive feature for file access
- Safe Core plan covers up to 25 computers for $24/month
- Structured tiered plans (Safe Core, Safe Power, Safe Ultimate)
- 250 GB to 500 GB storage options available
- Higher monthly cost starting at $24/month for 250 GB
- Lower storage capacity compared to IDrive's 5-100 TB options
Best for: Businesses prioritizing multi-computer coverage with structured tiered plans
How to choose
Choose Backblaze B2 for direct Synology support without plugins, or ElephantDrive for dedicated QNAP and WD integrations. IDrive and Carbonite lack native plugins, relying instead on mapped drives or general apps.
Select Backblaze B2 for low pay-as-you-go storage costs, but watch download fees. IDrive offers fixed monthly plans with unlimited devices but charges for storage overages. ElephantDrive and Carbonite have higher entry prices for fixed tiers.
IDrive is best for users needing unlimited device coverage under one plan with large storage tiers. ElephantDrive supports up to 10 devices, while Carbonite covers up to 25 computers but offers lower storage capacity.
ElephantDrive provides optional zero-knowledge encryption for enhanced privacy. Backblaze B2 offers strong file versioning and recovery capabilities, while IDrive supports true archiving where files remain until manually deleted.
Our verdict
IDrive offers the best balance of unlimited device support and flexible storage tiers, while Backblaze B2 is the most cost-effective for direct Synology NAS integration.
Frequently asked questions
Does IDrive support NAS devices directly?
IDrive supports NAS devices via mapped drives or IDrive apps, but does not offer a native plugin like Backblaze for Synology.
What is the cost of Backblaze B2 for NAS backups?
Backblaze B2 charges $0.005/GB/month for storage, with the first 1 GB of downloads per day free and $0.01/GB for excess downloads.
Which service offers zero-knowledge encryption for NAS?
ElephantDrive offers optional zero-knowledge encryption for its specialized NAS integrations.
How many devices does IDrive cover per subscription?
IDrive covers unlimited devices (PC, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android) under one subscription.
