Both pCloud and iCloud Drive offer robust cloud storage solutions, but cater to different user needs. pCloud stands out with its wider platform compatibility, flexible pricing (including lifetime plans), and choice of data center location. iCloud Drive is a strong choice for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, offering seamless integration and ease of use across Apple devices. The choice depends on the user's platform preferences, storage needs, and budget.
| Attribute | pCloud | iCloud Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | Offers a free plan with up to 10 GB of storage. Paid plans provide options ranging from 500 GB to 10 TB. | 5GB free, paid plans available |
| Pricing Plans | Individual plans: Monthly, annual, and lifetime subscriptions are available. The Premium plan (500GB) costs $4.99/month or $49.99/year. The Premium Plus plan (2TB) costs $9.99/month or $99.99/year. Lifetime plans are also offered. Business plans: Starting at $9.99 per user/month for 1TB storage. Add-ons: pCloud Crypto and Extended File History are available for an additional cost. | 5GB: Free, 50GB: $0.99/month, 200GB: $2.99/month, 2TB: $9.99/month, 6TB: $29.99/month, 12TB: $59.99/month |
| File Sharing Capabilities | Share files and folders with both pCloud users and non-users. Options to invite users to folders with specific permissions (View, Edit, Manage). Create shared links with customizable options like passwords and expiration dates. File requests: Allow users to receive files from anyone directly to their pCloud account. | Share files/folders with iCloud users, set permissions (view only or make changes), create public links for non-Apple users |
| Security Features (Encryption, Two-Factor Authentication) | Encryption: Uses AES 256-bit encryption for files and SSL/TLS for data transfer. pCloud Crypto: Optional paid feature for zero-knowledge, client-side encryption. Two-Factor Authentication: Available for account protection. | AES-128 bit encryption for files at rest, AES-256 encryption during transmission, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), Optional Advanced Data Protection (end-to-end encryption) |
| Platform Compatibility (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Web) | Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and web browsers. | Compatible with iOS, macOS, and Windows. Access via Files app on iOS, Finder on macOS, iCloud for Windows or iCloud website on Windows |
| File Versioning | Stores file versions for a specific period. Revisions: Allows previewing file edits and restoring previous versions. File versions are kept for 15 days for Free users and 30 days for Premium/Premium Plus/Lifetime users. Extended File History (EFH) is available as a paid add-on. | Automatically saves versions of files (compatible apps like Pages, Numbers, Keynote), browse and restore previous versions |
| Backup and Restore Options | Allows backing up files from other cloud services like Dropbox, Facebook, Instagram, OneDrive, and Google Drive. pCloud Rewind: Helps restore previous versions of files from 15 days (Free) to 30 days (Premium/Premium Plus/Lifetime). | Automatic data backup, restore files deleted within 30 days from 'Recently Deleted' folder, data recovery tool available |
| Synchronization Speed and Reliability | Offers instant synchronization. | Sync photos, files, and more across devices |
| Collaboration Features | Invite to Folder: Collaborate with teams in shared folders. Control access levels by setting permissions. | Share files and folders for collaboration, multiple users can work on the same file, changes synced across devices |
| Offline Access | Possible through the sync feature on the desktop app or by making folders available for offline access on mobile devices. | Stores local copies of files on Mac, consuming storage space |
| Data Center Locations | Users can choose between data centers in the United States (Dallas, Texas) or the European Union (Luxembourg). | United States, China, Ireland, and Denmark |
| Customer Support Quality | Email, FAQ/Knowledgebase, and Social Media support are available. | Not available |