Best Cloud Backup Services in 2026: Top Picks for Multi-Device and Single-PC Users
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We evaluated five cloud backup solutions based on storage limits, pricing per terabyte, platform compatibility, and versioning policies. This ranking is designed for individuals and small businesses seeking reliable data protection against hardware failure, ransomware, and accidental deletion, distinguishing between true backup services and sync-first platforms.
How we ranked these
At a glance
| # | Product | Score | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IDrive | 9.2 | Users with multiple devices seeking budget-friendly, multi-platform coverage |
| 2 | Backblaze | 8.8 | Users with large backups or lots of large files on a single PC or Mac |
| 3 | Arq Premium | 8.5 | Budget users seeking online backup at half the price of competitors |
| 4 | Livedrive | 8.2 | Users requiring unlimited storage with sync capabilities |
| 5 | pCloud | 7.9 | Users prioritizing file sync and access over traditional backup versioning |
IDrive
9.2- Supports unlimited devices on a single account
- 5TB plan costs $69.65/year, offering high capacity for multi-device households
- Stores 30 versions of each file indefinitely, providing robust ransomware recovery
- Integrates with Office 365, Google Workspace, and NAS for comprehensive coverage
- High overage fees apply when exceeding storage limits
- Complete disk imaging is restricted to Windows PCs only
- Android app offers more backup options than the iOS app
Best for: Users with multiple devices seeking budget-friendly, multi-platform coverage
Backblaze
8.8- Unlimited data storage for a single computer
- Fixed price of $99/year or $8.25/month simplifies budgeting
- Retains file versions for 30 days, with options to extend retention
- Limited to one computer per subscription, requiring additional plans for multi-device households
- Interface can be frustrating to use for non-technical users
- No native mobile backup app included
Best for: Users with large backups or lots of large files on a single PC or Mac
Arq Premium
8.5- 1TB storage space covers five computers for $60/year
- Backs up to a wide variety of third-party online storage services like S3 or B2
- Super-clean interface and setup process
- No plain file backup option, requiring specific configuration
- Described as quirky by reviewers
- Solo client software is considered pricey by some users
Best for: Budget users seeking online backup at half the price of competitors
Livedrive
8.2- Unlimited backup storage for Mac and Windows
- Fast, glitch-free performance during large transfers
- Includes syncing briefcase with online editing capabilities
- Mac Client requires third-party software for briefcase functionality
- Pricing at $119.88 is higher than competitors with similar unlimited tiers
- Limited platform support compared to IDrive
Best for: Users requiring unlimited storage with sync capabilities
pCloud
7.9- Free 6GB account available for trial
- Lifetime plans available for long-term cost savings
- Virtual drive integrates with Windows Explorer as a drive letter
- Primarily a sync service rather than a true backup solution, lacking versioning history
- Limited backup-specific features compared to dedicated backup providers
- Security features require understanding of encryption options
Best for: Users prioritizing file sync and access over traditional backup versioning
How to choose
Choose Backblaze or Livedrive if you only need to back up one computer, but select IDrive or Arq Premium if you need to protect multiple devices under one account.
Opt for Backblaze or Livedrive if you have large files and want unlimited storage, whereas IDrive and Arq Premium suit users who can manage within specific terabyte limits.
Select IDrive, Backblaze, or Arq Premium for robust versioning and ransomware protection, but choose pCloud if you prioritize file syncing and access over traditional backup history.
Arq Premium offers the lowest annual cost for multi-device users, while pCloud provides lifetime plans for long-term savings, and Backblaze simplifies budgeting with a fixed annual fee.
Our verdict
IDrive is the top pick for users with multiple devices seeking budget-friendly, multi-platform coverage due to its unlimited device support and robust versioning. Backblaze is the runner-up for users with large backups on a single PC or Mac who prefer unlimited storage at a fixed price.
Frequently asked questions
Which service supports the most devices per account?
IDrive supports unlimited devices on a single account, whereas Backblaze is limited to one computer per subscription.
What is the cost difference between IDrive and Backblaze?
IDrive's 5TB plan costs $69.65/year, while Backblaze charges a fixed price of $99/year for unlimited storage on a single computer.
Which provider offers the best value for budget users?
Arq Premium is best for budget users, offering 1TB storage for five computers at $60/year, which is half the price of many competitors.
Is pCloud a true backup service?
No, pCloud is primarily a sync service rather than a true backup solution, lacking versioning history and dedicated backup features.
