Cloud storage is the best way to store your data in the cloud because it can be accessed from any device and from anywhere. It also costs less than renting a server or buying a physical hard drive, which makes it perfect if you're looking to save money on storage.
Are you looking for the best cloud storage but don't know where to start? Well, I have got a list of all the best lifetime cloud storage plans that are available!
Best Lifetime Cloud Storage in 2021
Here are the two (2) lifetime cloud storage services out there that are trusted, reputable, and legitimate.
But before we dissect the cloud storage providers, I'd like to list down their general similarities (unless otherwise stated):
- Compatible with most devices and operating systems (Windows, IOS, and Android.)
- Needs internet connection to sync
- Can work on PC devices and mobile apps
1. pCloud (Best overall and best value cloud storage in 2021)
Storage: Up to 2TB
Free storage: 10GB free cloud storage
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux
Pricing: 500GB ($175 once) or 2TB ($350 once)
Quick summary: pCloud is a secure and easy-to-use Swiss-based storage provider that lets you store up to 10GB for free, and it offers lifetime plans for up to 2TB which makes its service cheaper in the long run because you won’t have to worry about renewal fees.
Website:
pCloud will always be the top-of-mind choice for secure cloud storage services, especially for more official, business, and professional.
Lifetime Plans Pricing
Though pCloud is a bit pricier, it's worth the price for the extra layers of security and the fast sync you're getting. These are the individual plans:
- Premium: 500GB storage for $480 (now at $175)
- Premium Plus: 2TB storage for $980 (now at $350)
For more advanced cloud storage, they charge additional fees. You can check the pricing of their lifetime family plan and business plans on their website. The billing is usually per cloud accounts user.
For this next section, we'll elaborate and explain more on the benefits and drawbacks.
Benefit #1: Secure and Private: Zero-Knowledge Encryption and Two-Factor Authentication
If you're wondering what zero-knowledge encryption is, it's literally what the name implies.
pCloud has zero knowledge of the files and information in your storage and personal account. Only YOU and the people you provide access to will know.
Personally, I appreciate this particular feature, especially with the surge of privacy invasion issues from many major online companies, server providers, and social media platforms.
Though I'm not saying that pCloud completely eliminates that, these extra measures already make a big difference in security and privacy.
Benefit #2: Efficient: Fast and Automatic Sync
Of course, if we're talking about a cloud storage provider for professional use, we need it to work fast and efficiently for more productivity.
As someone who can be impatient at times, I appreciate a provider that allows quick file sharing, uploading, and downloading. If you're like me, you'll enjoy this benefit too!
Benefit #3: Convenient and Easy to Use
One of the best things I like about this plan is the many features that make it user-friendly and convenient to use.
Some of these are:
- Integrated video and audio player
- Easy and customizable file sharing
- Accessible on all devices
- Has collaboration tools for easy sharing
- Allows monthly plans
- Compatible with Apple and Windows device
Benefit #4: For Long Term Use
Since it's a lifetime plan, you can use the services pCloud offers for as long as they're in business.
This is one of the reasons why despite the cost, it's considered an investment, especially for business operations that require secure storage space.
Only Drawback: Pricing
Unfortunately, you can't really expect all this goodness for free. The basic lifetime subscription is not exactly cheap.
And if you want to level up your security, there are additional costs.
The pCloud Encryption is an additional $480 (now $125). But you'll be paying for multi-layers of protection for client-side encryption and additional zero-knowledge privacy.
You can know more about pCloud Encryption on their website.
Pros
Though cloud storage services more or less work the same, there are a few things that stand out from pCloud that would probably make it THE best cloud storage service for you and your needs.
- You're confident of its security and privacy
- Efficient; best for productivity
- Convenient and easy to use
- For long-term use
Cons
But of course, we can't ignore the price points, especially if you'll compare them to others on the list.
- Extra encryption costs more
- Pricier (but worth the value)
2. Icedrive (Best budget cloud storage lifetime plans)
Storage: Up to 5TB
Free storage: 10GB free cloud storage
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux
Pricing: 150GB ($59 once, 1TB ($149 once), 5TB ($499 once)
Quick summary: Icedrive offers some really remarkable features, high security, and competitive pricing but falls short in the collaboration department and in the lack of support. Get rid of the hassle of recurring payments with lifetime packages
Website:
I have to admit though that pCloud can be a little expensive.
If you're on a budget and don't really need all of the features that pCloud offers, Icedrive can still offer you the basic benefits you need and want from pCloud – from the cloud storage service to the security encryptions.
One glaring difference is that Icedrive isn't as flexible in file sharing – which may be an important need for bigger businesses and companies.
But if you're looking for cloud storage for personal cloud storage or small-group use, then you're in for a treat!
Honestly, the benefits of pCloud and Icedrive are at par with each other. There are just some benefits and drawbacks that would be more beneficial/detrimental to certain circumstances!
Lifetime Plans Pricing
Icedrive lets you choose between monthly, yearly, and lifetime subscriptions.
Each of them (except for the monthly subscription) comes with 3 cloud storage options. Since we're talking about lifetime subscriptions here, I'll list the packages under the lifetime plans.
- Lite: 150 GB of storage; 250GB monthly bandwidth for $89 (now at $59)
- Pro: 1 TB of storage; 2TB monthly bandwidth for $224 (now at $149)
- Pro+: 5 TB of storage; 8TB monthly bandwidth for $749 (now at $499)
You can also get 10 TB of storage for free by just simply creating an account! For personal use, this is already a win. Read more about their plans here.
For this next section, we'll elaborate and explain more on the benefits and drawbacks.
Benefits #1 and #2: Cheap, No Need for Extra Payment for Security; Generous Icedrive Features
I'll merge these two because they go hand-in-hand.
Icedrive is generally more generous with their features, and they don't really charge high for the kind of service you're getting.
If you'll need to pay for extra encryption for pCloud, Icedrive already hands it to you through those plans – believing that “privacy is an inherent human right.”
I don't know about you, but I like that a lot!
And if you're not satisfied with their services, you can get your money back within the first 2 weeks or 14-days of purchase.
Benefit #3: The Security is Still Really GOOD.
If you head on to the encryption page on their website, you'll immediately see the security measures they've incorporated, such as:
- Twofish Encryption
- Client-side Encryption
- Zero-Knowledge Encryption
Yes, all these on top of the 256 bit AES encryption. Thanks, Icedrive!
There's also a Share Timeout feature, which allows you to set a duration for the files you've shared. Once it expires, it's no longer accessible by others. It's like a professional Snapchat!
But kidding aside, it's an important feature to have for more confidential files that you don't want to turn over to people forever.
Benefit #4: It Works Like a Hard Drive.
If you're used to the hard drive or USB interface, you'll enjoy the overall look and integration of the Icedrive.
You download it on your computer device, and it works as if it's part of your operating system. No need to go to a website to log in each time!
Even for the mobile app version, it works like a charm. It's as if your files are on your phones – for both IOS and Android.
Drawback #1: No Block-Level Sync
Though this is more of an advanced tech-savvy concern, I still think it's worth the mention.
Block-Level Sync is basically a cloud feature that allows you to edit only certain parts of a file. So if you have some minor edits to do, you don't have to change the entire file.
Unfortunately for Icedrive, this option isn't available.
But if you're a non-techy user or don't really mind the upgrades, you can't really tell the big difference.
Drawback #2: Not for Productivity (Fewer Collaboration Tools)
As mentioned, it's more suitable for personal cloud storage and not really for heavy productivity or work setting.
The collaboration options are fewer, the file-sharing isn't as fast, and there are no upload links. As we said earlier – the interface is more integrated-into-your-operating-system type.
Icedrive can be more useful for cold storage too (pun slightly intended).
As much as I love Icedrive for personal or small-scale use, I'd have to be honest and say that if you're using it for large-scale work and business, pCloud will be the better choice.
Drawback #3: No Chat Support for Troubleshooting
This may not be a basic feature that affects the functionality of Icedrive as a cloud storage per se, but it's a factor to consider.
What if you encounter some technical problems beyond your control, and you need to retrieve some important files, right? Who will you approach for some cloud storage solution?
Though it's unlikely to happen (probably why they didn't find the need to make one), it'd be nicer to have a chat support system, don't you think?
Pros
Here are some of the benefits that differentiate Icedrive from pCloud.
- No extra payment for client-side encryption
- Icedrive is very generous with features.
- You can set the time of the files you shared
- Security is also good
- Works like a hard drive
- Money-back guarantee
- Compatible with Apple and Windows device
Cons
Though I personally think Icedrive works well, you may need to consider these too:
- No block-level sync
- Not for productivity or work
- Fewer collaboration tools
- No chat support for troubleshooting
Other Cloud Storage Services [No Lifetime Plans]
But don't be disappointed!
If we take lifetime plans out of the equation, there are A LOT of cloud storage options out there that work as well.
The best part is that some of them provide unlimited cloud storage for free!
Sync.com
- Free plan: 5 GB of free storage
- Storage: 5 GB - 10 TB
- Current deal: Get 1TB cloud storage for only $5/month
- Website: www.sync.com
This could easily be part of our top 2 best cloud storage providers on our list, if not for the lack of lifetime subscription.
But if you're looking for a cloud service that's perfect for accounting, legal, and healthcare businesses, go for Sync.com.
When we speak of security, I'm willing to put my full trust in Sync.com because (if I may use the word) they're the more ethical choice.
More than the fancy interface, they're all about protecting you – making it safe for legal privacy practices.
Here are their affordable and user-friendly pricing packages (note that all of them allow unlimited shares and transfer):
- Business Pro Teams Standard: 1TB of storage per user for 2-100 users at $5 a month (paid annually)
- Business Pro Teams Plus: 4TB of storage per user for 2-100 users at $8 a month (paid annually)
- Business Pro Teams Advanced: 10TB of storage per user for 2-100o users at $15 a month (paid annually)
- Free: You'll also get 5GB free storage upon sign up!
Pros
Here's a quick rundown of the benefits you'll get from Sync.com:
- 100% HIPAA compliant (see FAQs #9 for the explanation)
- You're in control – access expiry, sharing permission, etc.
- Automatic syncing
- 24/7 in-house support and customer service
- Doesn't allow third-party integrations (safe)
- Files are password protected
Cons
- Doesn't allow third-party integrations (not as accessible for sharing)
- No lifetime subscription (too bad, really!)
iDrive Cloud Backup and Storage Solutions
- Free plan: 5 GB of free storage
- Storage: 5 GB - 10TB
- Current deal: Get 5TB of cloud backup for $7.95 for the first year
- Website: www.idrive.com
iDrive provides a plan with 5GB of free storage. No catch or anything; it's just really for you to experience their services before you decide to upgrade!
But take note that iDrive is backup and not really cloud storage. There's a fine line between these two.
Basically, iDrive is a place for you to store your backups, but it's not your actual and main storage. Whether that's a pro or a con now depends on you and your needs.
Pros
Here's a quick rundown of the benefits you'll get from Drive:
- Affordable (price increases as you go)
- Conveniently compatible for all devices (Windows PC, Mac, mobile app, tablet, etc.)
- Automatic cloud backup
- Remote management
- Business plan, personal plan, and team plan are all available
- Secure with the 256 bit AES encryption
Cons
- Not exactly cloud storage (if that's what you're looking for)
- Slow download/upload
- No monthly and lifetime plan (only yearly)
- No unlimited backups
DropBox
- Free plan: 2 GB of free storage
- Storage: 2000 GB - 3 TB
- Current deal: Get 2000GB cloud storage from just $9.99/mo
- Website: www.dropbox.com
You're probably familiar with DropBox since it used to be one of the most known cloud storage providers.
Such as when your file is too big, emails would usually suggest using DropBox to deliver them. That's one of the beauties of cloud storage!
If you don't really need an elaborate cloud storage provider, DropBox is actually a good cloud storage solution, especially for syncing folders and if you just need the speed.
Pros
Here's a quick rundown of the benefits you'll get from DropBox:
- Trusted and long-standing in the market
- A lot of collaboration options (email, Canvas, Slack, etc.) means easier file sharing
- Affordable for 16TB of storage
- Offers a free plan with 2GB of free storage
Cons
- Not the most secure for storage (no advanced encryptions, two-factor authentication, or anything like that)
- Only for short-term and personal use
- No lifetime cloud storage
- Find out what the best Dropbox alternatives are
Google Drive
- Free plan: 15 GB of free storage
- Storage: 15 GB - 30 TB
- Current deal: Get 100 GB storage from $1.67 per month
- Website: drive.google.com
As long as you have Google emails (GMails), you've surely used Google Drive (GDrive) for file sharing and storage at least once.
Since almost everyone has a Gmail by now, it's also the most accessible cloud storage space that's user-friendly and easy to share.
But accessibility has a disadvantage too, which is the lack of privacy.
You may recognize the basic Google Drive more with its free storage, but it also has Workspace, which is already paid for and is similar to other business plans.
Pros
Here's a quick rundown of the benefits you'll get from Google Drive:
- Accessible – almost everyone uses or is familiar with GDrive
- Comes with a free plan with 15GB of free storage and no restrictions
- Easy to use and user-friendly
- Works on any PC device and mobile apps alike
- Google ecosystem
Cons
- Not the most secure in terms of files (no passwords, authentication, encryptions)
- Not the most secure in terms of personal information and data
- Find out what the best Google Drive alternatives are
Microsoft OneDrive
- Free plan: 5 GB of free storage
- Storage: 100 GB - Unlimited
- Current deal: Get 100 GB storage from $1.99 per month
- Website: onedrive.live.com
OneDrive, also known as Apple's iCloud counterpart, is best for Windows and PC users. It's affordable and allows you to upgrade from an individual to a family and business plan.
One similarity OneDrive has with other plans on the list is also comes with a free plan with 5GB free storage space.
Pros
Here's a quick rundown of the benefits you'll get from OneDrive:
- Linked with Windows operating system and Microsoft
- They offer different business plans: Business 1, Business 2, 365 Business Basic, 365 Standard.
- Business 1: 1TB of storage space for $5 monthly (paid yearly)
- Business 2: Unlimited cloud storage space with security for $10 monthly (paid yearly)
- 365 Business Basic: 1TB of storage space with Microsoft Office Essentials apps for $6 monthly
- 365 Standard: 1TB of storage space with all Microsoft Office apps and tools for $15 monthly
Cons
- No zero-knowledge encryption
- Not the most secure
- Find out what the best Microsoft OneDrive alternatives are
iCloud
This is the most convenient option for Apple users, especially if you're already within the Apple ecosystem.
You can easily access your files across different Apple devices as long as you're logged in to the same Apple ID. It also comes with family plans good for 6 users per household.
Even if you haven't availed of the actual plan, you'll already have access to 5GB of free storage on your Apple device.
Pros
Here's a quick rundown of the benefits you'll get:
- Multiple cloud storage options (50GB, 200GB, and 2TB)
- Very convenient for Apple devices
- Can also be used as a cloud backup
- Secure enough
Cons
- Limited to Apple devices and users only
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Cloud Storage for Home Users?
Among our list above, the best one for home is probably iCloud (for Apple device users) or OneDrive (for Windows device users).
Other than they directly offer family plans, they are also affordable for storing personal memories and such. You don't really need heavy-duty and expensive ones for personal use at home!
But if you don't want to spend too much, Google Drive and/or Google Photos are already good too. I personally enjoy Google Photos for cloud storage of images.
How Long or Permanent Is the Lifetime Cloud Storage or a Lifetime Plan?
When they say lifetime, the ideal duration is for as long as possible.
As long as the cloud storage providers are up and running, you'll have access to their lifetime cloud storage, cloud storage service, and the benefits they bring forth.
But realistically, of course, there will be some unavoidable circumstances, such as the closing down of a company or the termination of a cloud storage service due to some reasons.
If such things happen, we'll have no choice but to follow the policies of our providers and adjust with them.
Is It Worth Paying For a Cloud Storage Service?
It depends on what you're using it for.
If you're a light user who doesn't really need 2TB or any elaborate cloud storage service, then paying for premium plans will most likely be a WASTE. You'll probably do fine with free storage.
But if you're a business or a team user who relies on the storage and would need strong privacy for your files, paying for a cloud storage provider can be considered a worthy investment.
Is It Worth Paying for Lifetime Plans Storage?
Again, it depends if you need it.
Some fields and businesses require a lot of files, data, and information. Ultimately, having a lifetime of storage space will be beneficial.
Also, keep in mind that the bulk of the price you're paying for a lifetime plan goes beyond the 2TB or 100TB storage.
You're paying for the encryption and security that will keep your confidential files secured and private.
So from this, assess if the files you're planning to store are worth paying the higher price points!
What Should I Consider When Choosing Lifetime Cloud Storage?
I understand that since we're talking about paying a good amount of money at once, one of our worries is whether or not we're making the right choice.
Of course, different cloud storage services have different benefits that cater to our different needs. On top of that, there are also external factors to consider. Let's go through them together!
Assess Your Own Cloud Storage Needs:
Am I a heavy user or a light user?
How much cloud storage do I really need?
Do I really need advanced cloud storage encryption?
How confidential are my files?
How long do I need cloud storage?
What device(s) am I using? Are they compatible?
Consider the External Factors:
How many users does this cloud storage provider have?
(If you intend it for cloud sharing, then it's a bit useless if none from your circles are using the same service)
How reputable is the company? (Remember, your lifetime subscription will be terminated along with your cloud storage service)
How helpful is the customer support of the providers?
What's the Best Cloud Storage in Terms of Security?
Other than storage capacity and device compatibility, the security and privacy of cloud service are important, right?
If you're strict about the security, then steer clear from the bottom half of this list.
I suggest you go for pCloud, IceDrive, and Sync.com. They're the best cloud storage device that offers a lot of encryption and authentication measures.
As I've also said, a bulk of the money you're paying actually goes to these extra layers of privacy and not really the storage.
Summary
So, there you have it for the best lifetime cloud storage.
I know it's probably disappointing that you just have 2 to choose from, but unfortunately, there aren't many lifetime cloud storage providers that are actually good as of date.
Best Overall and Best Value: pCloud
Bagging two of our awards, this is the one for your business and productivity's file storage needs. It takes pride in its fast and feature-filled cloud storage with advanced encryption for good network drives.
The only drawback is the expensive price tag and the additional charge for encryption. But if you look at it as a business investment for lifetime storage, I'd say it's worth it.
Best Budget: Icedrive
Coming in as a close second, Icedrive can also provide you the security and privacy you need without charging extra. It's a lot cheaper than pCloud, but still gives the services that you'd expect from a cloud storage company.
A bonus pro worth mentioning is the free plan of 10TB of storage upon the creation of an account. You just won't have the client-side encryption, but for a free plan? 10TB is already an EXCELLENT bargain.
The biggest drawback it has that tipped the scale towards pCloud is the productivity aspect. pCloud outperforms Icedrive in terms of productivity by a lot.
TL;DR
So to sum it all up, here are the premier cloud storage providers.
- pCloud (Best Overall and Best Value)
- IceDrive (Best Budget)
- Sync.com (Best Overall Among the Non-Lifetime plans)
Next up are our runner-ups. They perform well and have affordable pricing for what they are. They just don't have lifetime cloud storage plans.
- iDrive (Best Cloud Back-Up)
- DropBox (Most Established Cloud Storage Service)
- Google Drive (Most Accessible Cloud Storage)
- OneDrive (Best Cloud Storage Service for A Windows User)
So, Have You Found the Best Cloud Storage for You?
I hope this review was helpful in your search for the best lifetime cloud storage for you.
At least now, I know you're ready to bid your goodbyes to hard drives and hard copies!
As you saw, there are a lot of things to consider. What works for others might not work for you – and vice versa.
That's I encourage you to assess your own needs and circumstances, so you can choose the best cloud storage tailored to fit you.