Carbonite Safe review
A straightforward choice for unlimited personal file backup, but not full-device protection.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Carbonite Safe is a cloud backup service for individuals and households using Windows PCs and Macs. It automatically backs up selected files and folders, stores them in the cloud, and supports individual file restoration. Personal plans include unlimited cloud backup for one computer, while mobile apps and web access let users reach backed-up computer files away from the desktop. This makes it a fit for personal users who want ongoing protection for documents, photos, videos, and other files rather than a broader server or device-backup platform.
The annual plans are differentiated by storage scope and recovery options. Basic costs $95.99 per year for unlimited cloud backup, one computer, and file restoration. Plus costs $131.99 per year and adds external-hard-drive backup and automatic video backup. Prime costs $161.99 per year and adds courier recovery service to the Plus features. All plans include 30-day previous file versions, while cloud storage is 256-bit encrypted. Windows users can also enable an optional private encryption key.
Platform coverage includes web, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, but the mobile apps provide access to computer backups rather than backup for the phone or tablet itself. The product also focuses on file backup and file restoration, so users seeking server backup or broader full-device coverage should choose an alternative designed for those workloads. Carbonite Safe is best suited to individuals and households that value unlimited cloud file storage and automatic backup for a personal computer, especially if external-drive or video backup justifies the higher Plus or Prime price.
Carbonite Safe pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Unlimited cloud backup for one computer on every personal plan
- 30-day file versions, file restoration, and mobile file access
- Plus and Prime support external-drive and automatic video backup
- Where it doesn't
- Annual pricing starts at $95.99 with no free plan
- Backup is limited to files rather than full devices or servers
- Mobile access does not back up phones or tablets
Carbonite Safe fact sheet, pricing and score →
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