Google Photos was once a top choice for free unlimited photo storage. However, in June 2021, Google announced that they would be limiting free storage to 15GB and requiring users to pay for additional storage. While there are no free options with unlimited storage currently available, there are several platforms that offer unlimited photo storage at an affordable cost.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the most popular options available and help you decide which one is right for you.
1. CBackup
CBackup allows you to combine multiple cloud storage services into one, giving you access to all of your free storage from different accounts. For example, you could create three Google accounts, each with 15GB of storage, and use CBackup to combine them into a single 45GB cloud. One of the advantages of CBackup is that it allows for automatic file sync and backup, so you don’t have to manually upload your photos. Your photos will also be protected by 256-bit AES encryption for added security during backups or file transfers.
CBackup is free to use if you don’t need more than 500GB of monthly data traffic and 10GB of cloud storage. However, if you need additional storage, there are 2TB and unlimited plans available. While it may take some effort to create multiple accounts and combine them using CBackup, it’s a good option if you are looking for a free way to upload all of your photos without storage limitations.
If you are an Amazon Prime member, Amazon Photos is an excellent option for free unlimited photo storage. As a member, you can upload an unlimited number of photos at no additional cost, and you will also get 5GB of video storage. You can upgrade your video storage through a separate plan.
There are no restrictions on image size, so you can upload full-resolution images without any compression. The Auto-Save feature allows you to automatically back up all of your photos, but you also have the option to do it manually from your gallery.
You can access your photos from any device that supports Amazon’s services, and you can even set a photo as the screensaver on your Fire TV or as the home screen on your Echo Show.
Keep in mind that all of these benefits are only available as long as you are a Prime member. If you cancel your subscription, you will only have the default 5GB of storage for all of your photos and videos.
Internxt is an open-source, highly secure photo storage service that prioritizes user privacy. It takes full advantage of Web3 and the blockchain to ensure that all photos are fully encrypted before being uploaded to the platform. This means that no one can access your photos without your permission, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive images or who are concerned about privacy.
Internxt also comes with some convenient features, such as the ability to share images directly to social media from the app. It also syncs across all of your devices, so you can access your photos on the go.
Internxt’s free plan offers 10GB of storage, which is sufficient for thousands of photos. The free plan has no feature restrictions, so you can enjoy the same level of privacy as paid users. If you need more storage, you can get 20GB for less than a dollar per month, or choose between 200GB and 2TB options.
4. Mylio
Mylio offers a unique approach to external photo storage by allowing you to choose a primary device to store your photos. Instead of saving your photos to the cloud, Mylio syncs your photos with all of your additional devices and allows you to access them from anywhere, even without an internet connection.
The app also includes editing options and syncs all of your edits across devices. It does this without a server, as all of your photos remain on the physical devices you add. However, you can still choose to use cloud storage if you prefer.
Mylio is available for Android and iOS devices, and it offers storage for approximately 5,000 photos for free. If you upgrade to the premium plan, you will have access to unlimited photo uploads.
5. pCloud
pCloud is a cloud storage solution that emphasizes privacy, as it is created by a Swiss company that follows strict data laws. While it may not have as many features as some competitors, it is a reliable option for storing photos and other file types such as documents and PDFs, with no size limit.
pCloud offers 10GB of storage for free, and you can upgrade your storage at a reasonable price. For example, you can get 500GB or 2TB of storage for less than some other services charge.
If you upgrade, you will have access to additional features such as the ability to protect your photos with a password, set expiration dates, and generate download links for sharing.
6. MediaFire
MediaFire is a file storage and sharing platform with over 150 million users. It provides unlimited bandwidth and up to 50GB of free storage, making it easy to upload and download your files and share them via email, link, or social media. The basic account includes 10GB of storage, but you can increase this by connecting your MediaFire account with Twitter or participating in the referral program.
If you are willing to put in some extra effort, you can earn up to 400MB of extra storage. You can also upgrade your storage to 1TB for a few dollars per month. One disadvantage of MediaFire is that it does not offer automatic syncing, so you will need to manually upload all of your photos, which can be time-consuming if you don’t do it regularly.
7. Flickr
Flickr is a cloud storage solution and social media platform in one, allowing you to share your photos with the Flickr community or keep them private. The free plan allows you to upload up to 1,000 photos or videos, which may not be enough for some users. However, Flickr offers unlimited storage and all of its features for less than $10 per month, depending on the chosen plan.
Flickr has a range of features, including the ability to add albums or images to your website with HTML code and an eye-catching image stream display. It’s worth noting that free accounts have individual upload limitations, with photos limited to 200MB and videos limited to 1TB. This may be problematic for professional photographers who need to compress their files before uploading.
8. iCloud
If you own an iPhone, iCloud is likely your go-to storage service, as photos are automatically backed up to iCloud unless you change your settings.
iCloud offers 5GB of free storage, which may not be sufficient for some users. However, additional storage is affordable, with 50GB available for around a dollar, and there are also 200GB and 2TB options available at reasonable prices.
The main advantage of iCloud is that it automatically syncs your photos across all devices linked to your Apple ID, making it easy to switch to a new device. It also has a user-friendly interface. One limitation of iCloud is that it is only available on Apple devices, and it only provides a small amount of free storage.
9. IceDrive
IceDrive is a comprehensive cloud storage solution with many useful features. On desktop computers, it integrates with your hard drive to allow easy transferring of files between local and cloud storage. On mobile devices, it has a user-friendly interface, a document viewer, and a media player.
Alternatively, you can use the web app to manage your photos and other files with ease, using the convenient drag-and-drop function and unlimited bandwidth for fast uploads. The web app also includes a document converter that lets you preview various files in your browser.
IceDrive offers 10GB of storage for free, and there are three paid plans starting at a few dollars that provide additional storage. The main drawback of IceDrive is the lack of continuous backup and sync, meaning you will need to transfer files manually, similar to MediaFire.
10. Yandex.Disk
Yandex is a Russian search engine that also offers cloud storage as one of its services. It’s available on various platforms and comes with several useful features, including auto-uploads, no image compression, and the ability to send photos via short links for easy sharing.
The free account offers 10GB of storage, and additional storage can be purchased at competitive prices. However, it should be noted that Yandex includes ads on free accounts, which some users may find annoying.
Overall, Yandex is a solid choice for cloud storage with a range of useful features, although it may not be the cheapest option available.
11. OneDrive
OneDrive is a popular cloud storage service among Windows users due to its seamless integration with Microsoft’s other services. It can be a useful tool for hosting photos and has the added bonus of allowing users to share files for a limited time. However, it’s worth noting that uploads are limited to 15GB per file, which may not be sufficient for professional video makers.
OneDrive offers 5GB of storage for free, but this may not be enough for some users. On the other hand, its paid plans are relatively inexpensive, with the option to get up to 1TB of storage.
Common FAQs – Best Free Cloud Photo Storage
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage is a service that allows you to store your files, photos, and other digital content online, rather than on a physical hard drive or device.
How does cloud storage work?
Cloud storage works by uploading your files to a remote server, which can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. This allows you to access your files from anywhere, as long as you have the login credentials.
How much does cloud storage cost?
The cost of cloud storage can vary depending on the provider and the plan you choose. Some providers offer free plans with limited storage, while others charge a monthly or yearly fee for additional storage.
Is cloud storage safe?
Cloud storage providers use various security measures to protect your data, such as encryption, backup protocols, and data centers with strict security protocols. However, it’s important to choose a reputable provider and use strong passwords to ensure the safety of your data.
Can I access my cloud storage from any device?
Yes, you can access your cloud storage from any device with an internet connection and the login credentials. This includes computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
How do I choose the right cloud storage provider?
When choosing a cloud storage provider, consider factors such as cost, storage limits, security measures, and the types of files you need to store. It’s also a good idea to read reviews and compare different providers to find the best fit for your needs.
Can I store any type of file in the cloud?
Most cloud storage providers support a wide range of file types, including documents, photos, videos, and music. However, it’s a good idea to check with the provider to make sure they support the specific types of files you need to store.
Can I share files from my cloud storage?
Yes, many cloud storage providers allow you to share files with others by generating a link or inviting them to access your account.
What happens to my files if I cancel my cloud storage account?
It’s important to check with the provider to understand their policies on file retention and deletion. Some providers may delete your files immediately upon account cancellation, while others may retain them for a certain period of time or allow you to download them before deleting your account.
Can I use cloud storage for backups?
Yes, many people use cloud storage as a backup solution to protect their important files in case of a device failure or other unforeseen events. Some providers offer automatic backup options to make this process even easier.
Final thoughts on Cloud Storage for Photos
Since Google stopped offering free unlimited photo storage, it can be challenging to find a suitable replacement. However, storage options are generally not expensive, so you should be able to find a reasonably priced cloud solution for your photos. There are various options available, each with its own set of benefits. It’s important to consider what features you need in a storage platform and select one that fits your needs and budget. If you have experience with any of the platforms mentioned or have other suggestions, please share them in the comments section!
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