Google Drive is best for users who need easy access to their files and integration with Google Workspace, while Amazon S3 Glacier Deep Archive is best for users who need to store large amounts of data for long periods of time at a low cost.
| Attribute | Google Drive | Amazon S3 Glacier Deep Archive |
|---|---|---|
| Storage cost per GB | Offers 15 GB of free storage shared across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos. Paid plans start at $1.99 per month for 100 GB. Other plans include 200 GB and 2 TB options. The cost per GB decreases with larger storage plans. | Approximately $0.00099 per GB per month (or $1 per TB per month) |
| Data retrieval cost | Google Cloud Storage costs $0.02-0.036 per GB for standard storage, $0.01-0.02 per GB for Nearline, $0.004-0.014 per GB for Coldline, and $0.0012-0.005 per GB for Archive. | Bulk: $0.0025 per GB, Standard: $0.01 per GB |
| Data durability | Google uses redundant storage for all data, distributing it across many computers in different locations. Data is chunked and replicated over multiple systems to avoid single points of failure. | Designed for 99.999999999% (11 nines) of data durability |
| Data availability | Google Drive ensures users Google Drive is a versatile online storage solution that offers a user-friendly interface and seamless integration with Google Workspace applications. Its strength lies in its accessibility and collaboration features, making it ideal for individuals and teams already invested in the Google ecosystem. However, for users with large-scale storage needs and a focus on cost-effectiveness, Amazon S3 Glacier Deep Archive provides a highly durable and scalable solution at a significantly lower price point, albeit with longer retrieval times. The choice between the two depends on the specific use case, budget, and data retrieval requirements. For those prioritizing ease of use and integration with Google services, Google Drive is a strong choice. For those prioritizing long-term, low-cost archival storage, Amazon S3 Glacier Deep Archive is the better option. | — |