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If you’re an Apple user, you’re probably aware of iCloud’s importance. Apple’s iCloud provides users with a cloud-based storage service to back up their data to preserve and sync it across their devices, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Windows PCs. However, as we all know, data storage takes up space, and Apple offers various iCloud storage plans to meet the needs of different users. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about iCloud cost, including subscription plans, pricing, upgrading options, and which plan to choose based on your needs.
iCloud Storage Plans and Pricing
First and foremost, Apple offers five different iCloud storage tiers that are shared between all of your devices. The storage pricing for iCloud in the UK is as follows:
- Up to 5GB of storage is free
- 50GB storage for £0.79/$0.99
- 200GB of storage for £2.49/$2.99
- 2TB of storage for £6.99/$9.99
Note that Apple used to offer a 1TB for $6.99 and 2TB for $13.99, but they removed the 1TB offer in the spring, so the price for 2TB decreased to £6.99.
How to Upgrade iCloud Storage for Free
Thankfully, Apple offers a one-month free upgrade for first-time subscribers. So if you’re not already paying for iCloud storage, you can try the service for a month before deciding whether to continue using it or not. However, this free trial is only available to new subscribers. If you’re already subscribed to an iCloud storage plan, you won’t be eligible for the free month if you decide to upgrade to a higher storage tier.
If you’re not keen on paying for iCloud storage, you can always check out our article on the best iCloud alternatives.
Which iCloud Subscription Plan Should You Choose?
Choosing the right iCloud storage plan depends on your needs as an Apple user. Here’s a breakdown of which iCloud subscription plan you should choose based on your situation:
5GB
If you only have one iOS device and don’t have many photos, music, or videos to store, the free storage tier should suffice for you. This free iCloud storage tier is also useful for people who primarily use other cloud-based storage services like Dropbox or Google Drive.
Up to 50GB
For users who have more than one iOS device, upgrading to 50GB is the most popular option. This storage tier can accommodate a standard iOS backup, which can range from 1GB to 5GB or even more, based on the data stored on your device. This storage tier is also great for users who want to keep their photos and videos safe in case they’re lost or damaged. Users on the free tier won’t be able to add many users to their account if their storage is filled to capacity.
200GB
The 200GB plan is the default option for users owning multiple iOS devices and Macs. This option provides ample space to store backups for every device, a primary iCloud Photo Library, and other documents stored in the cloud. This iCloud subscription plan is also a good option for users who want to use iCloud Drive as their primary cloud service storage.
2TB
The 2TB iCloud storage plan is recommended for pro-level Apple users, corporate teams, or families sharing an account between multiple users you want to back up. This plan is perfect for those regularly switching between their iOS devices and Mac computers. It provides enough space for iOS backups, iCloud Photo Library, and other app data like documents and videos, spread out over thousands of photos and videos.
If you’ve decided to upgrade from the free or lower-tier iCloud storage plan, or you have noticed that 2TB is more storage than you need, it’s easy to switch the tier system. Please read our guide on how to upgrade or downgrade your iCloud storage plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is iCloud really necessary?
- If you use multiple Apple devices, iCloud is necessary. An iCloud subscription can sync all your data across devices, making it quick and simple to switch between them. Additionally, iCloud can save your data securely, so you never have to worry about losing it.
- If you have difficulty connecting to Wi-Fi or have limited internet, using iCloud might not be ideal.
Yes, you can share your iCloud storage with up to 6 family members using Family Sharing. As the iCloud storage sharer, you’ll invite them to join your Family Sharing group and designate shared albums, calendars, and reminder lists.