Google Drive vs iCloud
Google Drive vs iCloud depends almost entirely on your phone and computer choices. Google Drive works everywhere; iCloud works best on Apple. Platform loyalty essentially decides this comparison.
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Quick Answer
Google Drive beats iCloud for most users. It scores 9.2/10 vs 8.7/10 and 15gb free storage (best free tier). Choose iCloud if you need seamless apple device integration.
Google Drive
WinnerBest for collaboration with 15GB free storage
Starting from
$1.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| Starting Price | $1.99/mo | $0.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Storage | ||
| Free Storage | 15GB | 5GB |
| Max Storage | 2TB+ | 12TB |
| File Versioning | 30 days | 30 days |
| Security | ||
| Encryption | In-transit + at-rest | End-to-end (Advanced) |
| Zero Knowledge | Optional | |
| Features | ||
| Collaboration | ||
| Offline Access | ||
| Desktop App | Mac native | |
| Mobile App | iOS native | |
| Unlimited Devices | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Google Drive
- 15GB free storage (best free tier)
- Excellent real-time collaboration
- Seamless Google Workspace integration
- Powerful AI-powered search with Gemini
- Works on all platforms
- Generous family sharing (up to 5 members)
- Privacy concerns with Google scanning
- Storage shared with Gmail and Photos
- Limited offline capabilities
iCloud
- Seamless Apple device integration
- Automatic photo and backup sync
- iCloud Keychain password manager
- Find My device tracking
- Family sharing for up to 6 members
- Private Relay VPN included (iCloud+)
- Only 5GB free storage
- Limited Windows support
- Not ideal for non-Apple users
Key Difference
Google Drive works well everywhere; iCloud works perfectly only on Apple. Google integrates with Google apps; iCloud integrates with Apple apps. Cross-platform versus ecosystem optimization.
Which Should You Choose?
Google Drive
Choose Google Drive if you use Android or Windows, need cross-platform access, use Google Workspace, or share files with people on different platforms.
iCloud
Choose iCloud if you use only Apple devices, want seamless iPhone/Mac sync, prefer Apple's privacy approach, or keep everything in Apple's ecosystem.
Our Verdict
Google Drive wins for cross-platform users and Android/Windows users with better universal access. iCloud wins for Apple-only users with seamless device integration. Your device ecosystem determines the obvious winner.
Thinking of Switching?
Moving from iCloud to Google Drive on Apple devices works but loses tight integration. Moving from Google Drive to iCloud on Windows is painful. Choose based on your actual device ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Google Drive better than iCloud?
Google Drive scores higher in our testing (9.2/10 vs 8.7/10). Google Drive excels at 15gb free storage (best free tier), while iCloud is better for seamless apple device integration.
Which is cheaper, Google Drive or iCloud?
iCloud is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. iCloud offers NaN% savings.
Google Drive vs iCloud: which should I choose?
Choose Google Drive if you prioritize 15gb free storage (best free tier). Choose iCloud if you need seamless apple device integration. Both are solid cloud storage options.
What's the main difference between Google Drive and iCloud?
The main difference is Google Drive offers best for collaboration with 15gb free storage, while iCloud focuses on essential for apple ecosystem users.