How Much Is iCloud Storage? A Complete Pricing Guide
Apple's iCloud is one of the most popular cloud storage solutions, especially for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users. It provides seamless backup, file syncing, and data accessibility across devices. However, many users wonder: How much is iCloud storage per month?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down iCloud pricing plans , features, and tips to help you choose the best storage option for your needs.
1. iCloud Storage: Free vs. Paid Plans
Free iCloud Storage (5GB)
Every Apple ID comes with
5GB of free iCloud storage
. This can be used for:
- Device backups (iPhone, iPad, Mac)
- Storing photos and videos in iCloud Photos
- Saving files in iCloud Drive
- Email, contacts, and app data
However,
5GB fills up quickly
, especially if:
✔ You take many photos/videos
✔ Use multiple Apple devices
✔ Backup large apps or files
Paid iCloud Storage Plans
If you need more storage, Apple offers three paid tiers:
|
Plan
|
Storage
|
Monthly Cost (USD)
|
Best For
|
|----------|------------|----------------------|--------------|
|
iCloud+ (50GB)
| 50GB |
$0.99
| Individuals with moderate backup needs |
|
iCloud+ (200GB)
| 200GB |
$2.99
| Families or heavy photo/video users |
|
iCloud+ (2TB)
| 2TB |
$9.99
| Professional users, large backups |
Note: Prices may vary slightly by country due to exchange rates.
2. What Do You Get with iCloud+?
iCloud+ is Apple’s premium cloud storage subscription, which includes additional privacy and sharing features beyond extra space:
A. iCloud Private Relay (Secure browsing)
- Encrypts your Safari traffic to prevent tracking.
B. Hide My Email
- Generates random email aliases to protect your real email.
C. Custom Email Domain
- Use a personal domain (e.g., [email protected]) with iCloud Mail.
D. HomeKit Secure Video Support
- Stores security camera footage without counting against your iCloud storage.
3. How to Upgrade Your iCloud Storage
- On iPhone/iPad :
- Go to Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → Manage Storage → Change Storage Plan
- On Mac :
- Apple Menu → System Preferences → Apple ID → iCloud → Manage → Change Storage Plan
- On Windows or Web :
- Visit iCloud.com → Account Settings → Manage Storage
4. How to Save Money on iCloud Storage
A. Optimize iPhone Storage
- Enable "Optimize iPhone Storage" (Settings → Photos) to store full-resolution photos only in iCloud, saving space.
B. Delete Unnecessary Backups
- Go to Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → Manage Storage → Backups → Delete old backups.
C. Use Family Sharing (For 200GB/2TB Plans)
- Up to 6 family members can share a single iCloud+ plan (200GB/2TB).
D. Check iCloud Usage
- Delete large files (via iCloud Drive ) and clear app caches.
5. iCloud vs. Other Cloud Storage Prices
|
Service
|
Free Storage
|
Cheapest Paid Plan
|
2TB Plan Price
|
|------------|----------------|----------------------|------------------|
|
iCloud+
| 5GB | $0.99 (50GB) | $9.99 |
|
Google One
| 15GB | $1.99 (100GB) | $9.99 |
|
Dropbox
| 2GB | $9.99 (2TB) | $9.99 |
|
Microsoft OneDrive
| 5GB | $1.99 (100GB) | $9.99 (1TB + Office 365) |
Winner:
-
For Apple users
→ iCloud+ (best integration)
-
For cost-saving
→ Google One (more free storage)
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I cancel iCloud storage anytime?
✅ Yes , you can downgrade or cancel, and unused storage will expire at the billing cycle’s end.
Q2. What happens if I don’t pay for iCloud?
⚠️ Your data won’t be deleted immediately , but you won’t be able to back up new files until you free up space or resubscribe.
Q3. Does iCloud+ include Apple Music or TV+?
❌ No , iCloud+ is separate from Apple’s entertainment subscriptions.
Q4. Can I share iCloud storage with family?
✅ Yes , if you subscribe to 200GB or 2TB plans and enable Family Sharing .
Q5. Is iCloud storage worth it?
✔ Yes , if you use multiple Apple devices and need reliable, secure backups.
Conclusion: Is iCloud Storage Worth the Price?
Apple’s iCloud+ pricing is competitive , especially for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. While the free 5GB plan is limiting , upgrading to 50GB ($0.99/month) or 200GB ($2.99/month) provides great value.
Best choice for:
📌
Basic users
→ 50GB ($0.99)
📌
Families & photographers
→ 200GB ($2.99)
📌
Power users
→ 2TB ($9.99)
If you rely on iCloud for backups and syncing, upgrading is a smart investment. Check your current storage and choose the right plan today! 🚀