
- Cloud Computing Basics
- Cloud Computing - Home
- Cloud Computing - Overview
- Cloud Computing - Evolution
- Cloud Computing - Characteristics
- Cloud Computing - Advantages
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- IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS
- Cloud Virtualization
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- Server Virtualization
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- Storage Virtualization
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- Cloud Advanced Concepts
- Cloud Computing - Management
- Cloud Computing - Data Storage
- Cloud Computing - Security
- Cloud Computing - Operation
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- Cloud Computing - Providers
- Cloud Computing - Challenges
- Cloud Computing - Mobile
- Google Cloud Platform
- Cloud Computing - Multitenancy
- Hypervisor Security
- Cloud Computing - Principles
- Security Architecture
- Fault Tolerance
- Cloud Computing - Resiliency
- Service Level Agreements
- Cloud Networking
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- Cloud Computing - Scaling
- Autoscaling vs Load Balancer
- Scalability and Elasticity
- Cloud Bursting vs Cloud Scaling
- Resource Pooling
- Load Balancing
- Security Threats in Implementation SaaS
- Cloud Computing - Data Center
- Cloud Computing - Aneka
- Cloud Computing - Rapid Elasticity
- Cloud Computing - Xaas
- Cloud Computing - DaaS
- Cloud Computing - CaaS
- Cloud Computing - Roots
- Cloud Hosting vs Web Hosting
- Colocation vs Cloud
- iCloud Drive vs Dropbox
- SAP vs Oracle Cloud
- Cloud Computing vs Data Science
- Cloud Integration Platform
- Onedrive and iCloud
- Private Cloud and On-premise
- What is Cloudcraft
- Bitbucket Cloud API
- Akamai vs Cloudflare
- AWS CloudWatch vs Datadog
- Cloud Burst
- Cloudflare vs CloudFront
- Elastic Cloud on Azure
- Cloud Useful Resources
- Cloud Computing - Quick Guide
- Cloud Computing - Useful Resources
- Cloud Computing - Discussion
Difference between OneDrive and iCloud
Cloud storage services now hold a vital place in our digital existence, giving smooth and easy access to files, photos, and documents from any device that has internet. The most commonly used options today are Microsoft OneDrive and Apple iCloud. Even though both provide the same basic service of cloud storage, they vary greatly in their features, compatibility with devices or systems, cost structures as well as situations for use. This tutorial chapter will aid you in comprehending these distinctions and deciding which service is most suitable for your requirements.
Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive is the cloud storage service from Microsoft, which goes hand in hand with Windows and applications of Microsoft 365. This lets users store their files, synchronize them on different devices, and work together on documents using office tools like Word, Excel and PowerPoint provided by Microsoft. OneDrive can be used on platforms such as Windows, Mac, iOS or even Android hence it serves as a handy choice.
Apple iCloud
iCloud, an Apple owned and operated cloud storage service is mainly focused on the Apple ecosystem which includes users of macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. It allows users to back up their data, sync files across devices, and manage their media via iCloud Photos. While iCloud works best within the Apple ecosystem, it has limited compatibility with Windows.
Key Differences Between OneDrive and iCloud
The following table highlights major differences between OneDrive and iCloud −
Feature | Microsoft OneDrive | Apple iCloud |
---|---|---|
Primary Use | File storage, document collaboration, and Office integration | Apple device backup, file syncing, and media storage |
Integration | Best with Windows and Microsoft 365 | Best with macOS, iOS, and Apple apps |
Platform Compatibility | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | macOS, iOS, iPadOS (Limited support for Windows) |
File Collaboration | Advanced collaboration with Microsoft Office apps | Basic file sharing, better for media and backups |
Storage Plans | Free 5GB, paid plans up to 6TB | Free 5GB, paid plans up to 12TB |
Security | Personal Vault, two-step authentication, ransomware protection | End-to-end encryption for some services, two-factor authentication |
Best For | Business and productivity users | Apple users and media backup |
Features Comparison
Below, we have a comprehensive comparison between OneDrive and iCloud on the basis of storage, pricing, compatibility, file sharing, security, etc. Have a look at these points −
A. Storage and Pricing
Both services offer a free 5GB plan, but beyond that, their pricing structures vary:
OneDrive Plans
- 100GB for $1.99/month
- 1TB for $6.99/month (includes Microsoft 365)
- 6TB for $9.99/month (up to 6 users)
iCloud+ Plans
- 50GB for $0.99/month
- 200GB for $2.99/month
- 2TB for $9.99/month
- 6TB for $29.99/month
- 12TB for $59.99/month
OneDrive includes Microsoft 365 subscriptions in its higher-tier plans, making it a better value for those who use Office apps. iCloud+, on the other hand, focuses on Apple services like Hide My Email, Private Relay, and HomeKit Secure Video.
B. Compatibility
- OneDrive − Works seamlessly on Windows and Android, with good support for Mac and iOS.
- iCloud − Designed for Apple devices and offers limited functionality on Windows (via the iCloud app).
If you primarily use Windows or Android, OneDrive is the clear winner. But if you're an Apple user, iCloud integrates much better with macOS and iOS.
C. File Syncing and Sharing
- OneDrive − Uses Files On-Demand, meaning files are stored in the cloud but can be accessed without downloading them. It also has real-time collaboration with Microsoft 365 apps.
- iCloud − Syncs files across Apple devices using iCloud Drive, but does not support the same level of real-time collaboration as OneDrive.
For teamwork and document editing, OneDrive is the better option.
D. Security and Privacy
Both services offer two-factor authentication and encrypted storage, but iCloud provides end-to-end encryption for certain data like iMessages and passwords, making it slightly more privacy-focused.
OneDrive, however, has a Personal Vault feature, which adds an extra layer of protection for sensitive files.
E. Backup and Restore
- OneDrive − Primarily designed for file storage rather than full-device backups.
- iCloud − Supports full device backups for iPhones, iPads, and Macs, making it essential for Apple users.
If you need device backups, iCloud is the better choice.
When to Choose OneDrive or iCloud?
Lets now discuss, when to choose OneDrive and when iCloud. It depends on your need and your system configuration.
Choose OneDrive if
- You use Windows and Microsoft 365 apps frequently.
- You need advanced collaboration features for documents.
- You want cross-platform compatibility (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android).
- You need more affordable high-storage plans.
Choose iCloud if
- You primarily use Apple devices (Mac, iPhone, iPad).
- You need seamless integration with iCloud Photos, Mail, and Safari.
- You want to back up iPhone/iPad data.
- You prioritize privacy features like end-to-end encryption.