5 Best Cloud Backup for the UK
I tried and tested a variety of options for cloud backup U.K. users will love, looking at speed, security and value for money. Here are my top five picks.
Written by Dan Ginn (Writer)
Reviewed by Valentina Bravo (Managing Editor)
Facts checked by Igor Kurtz (Fact-checking editor)
Last Updated:
All our content is written fully by humans; we do not publish AI writing. Learn more here.
Key Takeaways: These Are the Best Cloud Backup Solutions for the U.K.
- IDrive — Excellent all-arounder, with a user-friendly backup process.
- Backblaze — Basic backup features, along with cheap unlimited cloud backup storage.
- pCloud — Leading cloud backup provider for those working with large multimedia files.
- Dropbox Backup — Cloud backup solution for small businesses, with plenty of integrated workspace tools.
- Internxt — Provides future-proof security and affordable lifetime plans for cloud backup users.
Facts & Expert Analysis About the Best U.K. Cloud Backup Solutions:
- Understanding cloud backup: Cloud backup allows you to back up your computer, applications and operating systems and restore them from the cloud rather than storing them on a physical device.
- Cloud backup vs local backup: One of the core advantages of using a cloud backup service is that you can access your files on multiple devices and share files with others.
- Cloud storage limitations: A service like Google Drive can back up specific files and folders, but it can’t run deep backups of your servers, applications or critical data.
Being from this far-from-tropical island, I’m always on the hunt for the best cloud backup U.K. citizens can get. Over the years, I’ve tried and tested several different solutions to back up my files, data and full operating system. The best providers offer a range of backup options and top-notch security, and in this article I’m sharing my favorites.
There are a few reasons to consider specific online backup services if you’re in the U.K. The first is that your privacy remains protected by the EU’s GDPR, though the U.K. does have its own version, which I’ll go over later. Secondly, when using cloud features, speeds will be higher and latency lower the closer you are to the provider’s servers.
Each cloud backup provider listed below hits all these points. They’re excellent services with a range of useful features, and you can use them even if you’re outside of the U.K. Alternatively, check out our roundup of the best online backup services.
-
07/31/2022 Facts checked
Updated to reflect changes in pricing for IDrive and Backblaze.
-
12/12/2022 Facts checked
Updated Carbonite’s prices.
-
05/23/2023 Facts checked
Updated to remove IDrive’s discontinued free plan and add its new free 30-day trial.
-
02/26/2024 Facts checked
Updated IDrive’s pricing information.
-
03/06/2025 Facts checked
We updated Acronis’ product name to Acronis True Image.
-
06/16/2025 Facts checked
We adjusted the provider list to account for changes in what services offer.
-
08/31/2025 Facts checked
We updated this article to reflect new solutions and testing results.
Cloudwards’ Choice: IDrive
Cloudwards’ Choice: IDrive
In my experience, IDrive is the best cloud backup service. Backing up files and systems is quick and simple, and it has some traditional cloud storage features that allow me to share files with others and access files on multiple devices. It also has servers in London, so speeds are excellent and consistently stable.
How to Choose the Best Cloud Backup for the UK
There are a few factors I encourage you to consider when selecting the best backup software. If you’re new to cloud backup, you’ll want a basic solution that does most of the legwork for you. If you’re experienced, then advanced services that offer more granular usability (like incremental backups) will allow you to back up in the way that best suits you.
10,000+ Trust Our Free Cloud Storage Tips. Join Today!
- Demystify cloud storage terminology and key concepts in plain language
- Discover easy-to-implement techniques to securely backup and sync your data across devices
- Learn money-saving strategies to optimize your cloud storage costs and usage
In addition, consider how much cloud backup you need. If you have large systems, files and data, then you’ll likely need plenty of storage. Lighter users can seek out more conservative options when it comes to storage space. Lastly, I always recommend choosing a solution that puts the security and privacy of your data above all other features.
The 5 Best UK Cloud Backup Services
| Service: | Free Storage | Best Price | Server Locations | End-to-End Encryption | Online Collaboration | Advanced Sharing | Security |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 10GB | $5.81 per month (one-year plan) | 🇺🇸 U.S. 🇬🇧 U.K. 🇫🇷 France 🇮🇪 Ireland 🇨🇦 Canada 🇩🇪 Germany 🇸🇬 Singapore | Microsoft Office | AES-256 | ||
 | None | $7.88 per month (two-year plan) | 🇺🇸 U.S. 🇪🇺 EU 🇨🇦 Canada | N/A | AES-128, SSL | ||
 | 10GB | $8.33 per month (one-year plan) | 🇺🇸 U.S. 🇪🇺 EU* | N/A | AES-256, TLS/SSL | ||
 | 2GB | $15 per month (one-year plan) | 🇺🇸 U.S. 🇪🇺 EU | Google Workspace, Microsoft Office | AES-256, TLS/SSL | ||
 | 1GB | $6.86 per month | 🇪🇺 EU | N/A | AES-256**, TLS/SSL |
**With Kyber-512
1. IDrive — Overall Best Cloud Backup for the UK
IDrive blends the best of online backup with traditional cloud storage features. What makes it one of the best online backup services is its diverse capabilities. You can back up almost everything, including your computer, network-attached storage (NAS) device and external drives. You can also run disk image backups, which involves backing up apps, operating systems and other data.
The cloud features enable you to access backup files on multiple devices and share them with others through links. With the mobile app, you can automatically back up your files and even your contact list.
IDrive Hands-On Testing
I downloaded IDrive on my MacBook, and installing it took just a few minutes. I had to grant it full disk access so it could do its backup magic, but that’s normal for backup solutions. What really stood out to me was how simple it was to perform a range of backups. IDrive labels its features clearly, and it can perform most functions with a single click.
The clean UI made scheduling backups very straightforward. I wasn’t worried about selecting the wrong dates and times thanks to the clear layout. Surprisingly, the desktop app boasts a more modern, polished design than the web app, with the latter being stuck in the same era as when bowl cuts were all the rage.
Notes From the Lab: IDrive Speed Test Results
| 1st Attempt* | 2nd Attempt* | Average* | Average** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upload | 0:06:45 | 0:06:44 | 0:06:45 | 0:05:00 |
| Download | 0:06:50 | 0:07:06 | 0:06:58 | 0:04:57 |
**1 Gbps
IDrive is one of the fastest cloud backup options on the market. I was really impressed with both upload and download speeds, though I was expecting more of a difference when testing unthrottled speeds on a 1 Gbps connection. Either way, it’s fast and doesn’t eat away at CPU.
Notes From the Lab: IDrive Security Analysis
| Encryption Type | Protocols |
|---|---|
| At rest | AES 256-bit |
| In transit | AES 256-bit |
If you want to back up files with a secure solution, IDrive is your guy. Standard encryption is in place, and your data is encrypted before it arrives at its backup destination. This means nobody — including IDrive — can view, scan or access your data.
IDrive Pricing & Value
IDrive has a range of plans available and regularly runs discounts. You can pay $69.66 for the first year and receive 5TB of cloud backup space, which is a bargain if I’ve ever seen one. There’s a free plan too, but it offers only 10GB. It’s a good way to test the service for yourself, though. To get an even better idea of the platform, read our IDrive review.
- No credit card required.
- 10GB
- One user.
- 100GB
- One user, multiple computers. Plans starting from 5TB up to 100TB. Big discount for first-time signup.
- 5TB
More plans
- 5 computers, 5 users. Starting at 5TB up to 500TB. Big discount for first-time signup.
- 5TB
- Monthly Plan storage starts at 1.25TB up to 50TB Unlimited users, multiple computers and servers. NAS devices. 250GB storage. Starting at 250GB up to 50TB. Large discount for first-time signup.
- 250GB
- 5TB
2. Backblaze — Best-Value Cloud Backup for the UK
Backblaze is built for those with lots of data. It’s one of the few leading services to offer unlimited cloud backup, and at a ridiculously low cost to boot. It’s light on features, but you can perform full device backups either manually or at set times. Backups of external hard drives, NAS devices and servers are not possible, but full disk image backups are.
What Backblaze lacks in advanced features it makes up for in what I call “nice to have” features. You can use Backblaze to locate a lost device, and there are file-sharing options through the Backblaze B2 software. It has servers in Amsterdam, which suits our U.K. readers looking for reliable speeds.
Backblaze Hands-On Testing
What some call scarcity I refer to as simplicity, and that’s exactly what you get with Backblaze’s desktop app. Upon opening the app, you have the option to select from three tabs. They’re pretty self-explanatory and shouldn’t lead to any confusion about what to expect when you select one.
Some features that really stood out to me during testing were exclusions and reports. The former lets you exclude specific folders, file types and files of a certain size. I found this really useful for backing up the files that matter most. Reports are useful for seeing how I was using my backup or identifying any persistent issues when performing a full backup.
Notes From the Lab: Backblaze Speed Test Results
| 1st Attempt* | 2nd Attempt* | Average* | Average** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upload | 0:17:00 | 0:16:47 | 0:16:54 | 0:16:55 |
| Download | 0:07:10 | 0:07:08 | 0:07:09 | 0:06:15 |
**1 Gbps
Unlike other services, Backblaze isn’t great with upload speeds. They haven’t gotten any quicker over time either, even with software updates. However, downloads are much better and remain stable. Overall CPU usage is in the low to medium range.
Notes From the Lab: Backblaze Security Analysis
| Encryption Type | Protocols |
|---|---|
| At rest | AES 128-bit |
| In transit | SSL |
Backblaze’s security features are pretty standard. It opts for AES 128-bit security rather than the latest protocol, 256-bit. Although this means it runs on older infrastructure, it’s not a cause for concern.
You can add two-factor authentication (2FA) to your account, and you can control a private encryption key to ensure only you and those you authorize can access your files.
Backblaze Pricing & Value
Pricing is where Backblaze really begins to shine. Unlimited backups for $7.88 per month ($189 for two years) is the best value on the market. No free plan is available, but you can use the free 15-day trial or the 30-day money-back guarantee. Read our Backblaze review for more details.
- Unlimited GB
3. pCloud— Best Home Online Backup for the UK
pCloud differs slightly from other services, as it prioritizes cloud storage features over traditional backup. I consider this a good thing, because users can easily share files, access them on different devices and still have the option to back up specific folders on their desktop. The backup service also offers 12 months of file version history, but it costs extra, whereas 30 days is included for free.
Because of its limitations, you can’t back up NAS devices, and advanced tools like disk image backup are not available. Any folders you do back up will automatically update whenever a new file is saved to that destination. You can access them via the web app or the backup tab in the desktop app.
pCloud Hands-On Testing
I like that I can program pCloud to automatically back up files when I save or export them to a destination on my Mac. This provides peace of mind and means I don’t have to worry about remembering to do it manually. When opening the app, I simply select a folder I want to back up, and pCloud ensures it stays up to date.
The simple “stop” and “start” tabs make it very easy to take full control of my backups. I also like that I can access my backups via the web app and enjoy an experience more similar to that of cloud storage, such as being able to share files with others. However, I would like to see an option to schedule backups in future iterations of the software.
Notes From the Lab: pCloud Speed Test Results
| 1st Attempt* | 2nd Attempt* | Average* | Average** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upload | 0:07:02 | 0:07:10 | 0:07:06 | 0:02:06 |
| Download | 0:06:50 | 0:06:53 | 0:06:52 | 0:02:33 |
**1 Gbps
pCloud is always a top performer when it comes to speed for both uploads and downloads. It is lightning fast and remains stable on a 1 Gbps connection. It does display more mid-range CPU usage, though, so it’s not as light as others. However, it doesn’t get in the way of multi-tasking unless your device is a certified potato.
Notes From the Lab: pCloud Security Analysis
| Encryption Type | Protocols |
|---|---|
| At rest | AES 256-bit |
| In transit | TLS/SSL |
pCloud’s standard encryption measures keep your backups safe. It does have a client-side encryption folder as well, but your desktop backups don’t save there, making it redundant for purely backup purposes. If you choose to share files, you can add passwords, limit downloads and set standard access permissions like viewing and editing.
pCloud Pricing & Value
pCloud’s pricing is fair and in line with the average market value. You can get 2TB of cloud backup for $8.33 per month on an annual subscription. The real value comes from the lifetime plans, though. You’ll pay just once, and if you use it long term, it’ll end up being much cheaper than a standard monthly or yearly subscription. Learn more in our pCloud review.
- 10GB
- 500GB
- 2TB
More plans
- 10TB
- + FREE Encryption
- 2TB
- + FREE Encryption
- 10TB
- Price per user (minimum 3)
- 1TB
- Price per user (minimum 3)
- 2TB
- Encryption for pCloud Drive
4. Dropbox Backup — UK Cloud Backup for Small Business
![Video thumbnail for the video: Should You Still Use Dropbox in 2024? [Updated Review]](https://img.youtube.com/vi/bwy8HZ1Uvnk/maxresdefault.jpg)
Dropbox is a solid option for U.K. small businesses looking to back up their data. It offers everything from remote backups to selective folder backups, as well as the option to back up local and external drives. It also has servers in the U.K., ensuring optimal performance for businesses that have no time to waste.
Of all the online backup services in this selection, Dropbox is the best for productivity and collaboration. You can integrate with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office, or use Dropbox’s native tools (like Dropbox Paper) to create and discuss your work.
Dropbox Hands-On Testing
I’m a big fan of Dropbox’s design and the way it functions. I especially like that I can manage all of my connected devices via the web app, and see how and where my account has been accessed.
However, I will say that running a backup isn’t as straightforward as with the other options on this list. The process is hidden in submenus rather than smacking you in the face on the homepage.
In my opinion, the design is akin to a toxic relationship: There are elements that I love, but I also know I deserve better. For example, the colors are beautiful and the software runs well, but the submenus and overly cluttered design spoil the navigation.
Notes From the Lab: Dropbox Speed Test Results
| 1st Attempt* | 2nd Attempt* | Average* | Average** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upload | 0:07:13 | 0:07:28 | 0:07:21 | 0:04:20 |
| Download | 0:07:22 | 0:07:17 | 0:07:20 | 0:04:12 |
**1 Gbps
Dropbox provides fast and reliable performance, and it maintains a stable pace during uploads and downloads. It has very low CPU usage, which is perfect for businesses that need to multitask while backing up their data.
Notes From the Lab: Dropbox Security Analysis
| Encryption Type | Protocols |
|---|---|
| At rest | AES 256-bit |
| In transit | TLS/SSL |
Dropbox has a strong approach to security. It runs a diagnostic exam of your account to ensure you have optimal settings and a strong password, and to confirm that no third-party apps are accessing your data. You can add 2FA and generate recovery codes if you can’t access your phone or email.
Dropbox Pricing & Value
Dropbox small business options start at $15 per user per month and require a minimum of three users. This is in line with many of the best cloud storage services for business, and you get all of Dropbox’s great productivity tools. Check out our Dropbox review for more details.
- 1 user
- 2GB
- 1 user
- 2TB
- up to 6 users
- 2TB
More plans
- (Formerly Dropbox One) 1 user Signature requests and eSignature templates
- 3TB
- 3 users minimum
- 5TB
- 3 users minimum
5. Internxt — Most Secure Online Backup for the UK
Internxt is making waves for its approach to security. It’s the first cloud service to offer post-quantum encryption, meaning it’s prepared for future quantum computers that will be powerful enough to quickly bypass current encryption protocols. You also get client-side file encryption so the company can’t access your data.
Although it doesn’t offer deep backup features, it has the basics. You can schedule one-time backups or have them run continuously, and you can choose specific folders on your computer to back up. You can also browse files via the web app and quickly delete backups if you know you don’t need them.
Internxt Hands-On Testing
What I really like about Internxt is that most of its security protocols are already in place; I have to do very little leg work to get the best protection for my data. The design speaks to me too. I prefer a “less is more” approach, and Internxt nails this by displaying core features front and center.
Running a backup was pretty painless. I did have to log in to my account via the web to access the downloaded file, but it wasn’t a big deal. Note that backup features are not available on the free version, but standard uploads and file syncing are.
Notes From the Lab: Internxt Speed Test Results
| 1st Attempt* | 2nd Attempt* | Average* | Average** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upload | 0:07:57 | 0:08:05 | 0:08:01 | 0:07:48 |
| Download | 0:09:26 | 0:09:30 | 0:09:28 | 0:09:27 |
**1 Gbps
I wasn’t blown away by the speed test results, and I was disappointed to see little to no improvement even when I ran the tests on a 1 Gbps uncapped connection. That said, the speeds aren’t painfully slow and will be fine for most users.
Notes From the Lab: Internxt Security Analysis
| Encryption Type | Protocols |
|---|---|
| At rest | Kyber-512 |
| In transit | TLS/SSL |
One noticeable difference you’ll see with Internxt’s encryption is Kyber-512. This is the security protocol that will prevent quantum computers from accessing your data when they reach the mainstream. Standard security features like 2FA are available as well, and Internxt is open-source, so you can review its protocols yourself.
Internxt Pricing & Value
Our Cloudwards exclusive deal gets you 87% off the price of cloud storage, including the lifetime plans. This means you can get cloud storage at a much cheaper price than with other options. If you opt for a monthly or yearly plan, it can get quite pricey after the first 12 months. Check out our Internxt review to learn more.
- 1GB
- Storage + VPN (FR), Antivirus, Backup & More
- 1TB
- Storage + VPN (FR, DE, PL), Antivirus, Backup & More
- 3TB
More plans
- Storage + VPN (FR, DE, PL, CA, UK), Antivirus, Backup & More
- 5TB
- Storage + VPN (FR, DE, PL), Antivirus, Backup & More
- 1TB
- Storage + VPN (FR, DE, PL, CA, UK), Antivirus, Backup & More
- 2TB
Honorable Mentions
If none of the selections above appeal to you, I’ve come prepared with some honorable mentions.
| Providers: | Stand-Out Feature | Extra Backup Tools | Advanced Backup & Restore Tools |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Full device backup | Disk image backup | Remote device management |
 | Unlimited backup | Server backup | Courier recovery service |
 | Unlimited file versioning | External drive backup | NAS backup |
 | Unlimited cloud backup | Continuous folder backup | NAS backup |
Our Methodology: How I Tested the Cloud Backup Solutions for the UK
I downloaded and tested each provider before including them in my selection. I even use pCloud and IDrive as my personal daily drivers to ensure I never suffer from unexpected data loss. Here’s what I looked out for to ensure this selection was suitable for my fellow U.K. nationals:
- Server location: I took the time to research where each solution has data servers. Services with EU or U.K. locations likely provide more stable performance.
- Performance: Our team upload and download a 5GB folder to test speeds and analyze their stability and how much CPU usage a service takes up. We use a virtual machine located Dublin, Ireland with a 1Gbps connection which is initially throttled to 100Mbps for stability and then we test again with no throttling over the full connection speed.
- Backup options: Solutions offering a range of backup options, such as disk image, NAS and selected folder backups, all caught my attention, as they appeal to a wider range of users. I also tested how well these backup features function in a real-world environment.
- Ease of use: To ensure everyone from new users to power users can enjoy these tools, I tested their functionality to confirm they’re appropriate for all experience levels.
- Security and privacy: Before recommending a secure cloud backup environment, I reviewed the service’s security and privacy policies to confirm that protocols are in place to keep your data safe.
- Affordability: Recommending the best-functioning products is important, but so is cost. I analyzed current market costs in order to present services with affordable personal plans.
How to Use a Cloud Backup Service
If you’re new to cloud backup, below is a quick step-by-step guide on how to get started. I used IDrive as an example.
- Download the Desktop Application
To run backups, you’ll need to head over to IDrive’s website to sign up for a plan and download and install the desktop application.
- Select “Online Backup”
To back up your data to your online account, select “online backup” in the left-hand menu.
- Tap “Backup Now”
To initiate the backup, simply tap the “backup now” tab in the bottom right-hand corner.
- Restore Your Data
If you get a new device, download IDrive again and log in to your account. Select “restore now” in the bottom right-hand corner. Your data will download onto your new device and you’ll be able to access it.
Why You Need a Cloud Storage Service for the UK
Investing in a cloud storage service that is geographically close to (or in) the U.K. helps ensure fast and stable upload and download speeds, as well as lower latency. That said, with modern-day infrastructure, a company based in the EU won’t necessarily be slower than one operating out of London.
On the privacy front, U.K. users are covered by the U.K. GDPR. This is the same as the EU GDPR, but the U.K. has the power to amend the U.K. version. If you’re new to the GDPR, here’s a quick rundown: Essentially, you have more power over your data, how it’s used and what happens to it if you stop using a service. Our “What Is GDPR?” guide goes into more detail.
Final Thoughts
The last thing you want is to experience hard drive failure and not have a backup solution ready to restore your data, so don’t hesitate to get started with one of the services above. Remember, IDrive is the best all-arounder for backing up important files. It’s not just meant for one computer, either: You can back up other devices as well, including your smartphone.
However, no option is a bad option, and what’s most important is that you protect your data from being lost forever. Try the free plans if you’re still unsure, or make the most of a free trial. That way, you get to test them out risk free and find the best option for backing up your files.
Which cloud backup provider are you currently using? What features do you look for in a backup service? Is there another service you would like me to review? Let me know in the comments. Thanks for reading.
FAQ: Online Backup for the UK
Yes, Backblaze is available to users in the U.K. and has data centers close by in the EU.
Yes, IDrive is legit. It has a longstanding reputation of delivering reliable backup and disaster recovery tools. I’ve tried and tested it for years and have never had cause for concern when using the platform.
Curry’s — a hardware and software retail chain in the U.K. — offers cloud backup packages for your data. It works like other cloud backup options, allowing you to sync and share your files.