iCloud Backup review
A convenient automatic backup for Apple mobile devices, with storage plans from $0.99/month.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
iCloud Backup is Apple’s cloud backup feature for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro. It is aimed at Apple mobile-device owners who want a periodic copy of device information and settings without starting each backup manually. When a device is connected to power, locked, and on Wi-Fi, backup can run automatically; users can also start one from device settings. A backup can be restored during setup of a replacement or erased device, making this a focused option for device migration and recovery rather than a general computer or server backup service.
The free iCloud 5GB plan backs up and syncs data across devices. Paid iCloud+ plans begin at $0.99 per month for 50GB and add iCloud Private Relay, Hide My Email, Custom Email Domain, and HomeKit Secure Video for one camera. The 200GB plan costs $2.99 per month and includes the 50GB plan features plus HomeKit Secure Video for five cameras; 2TB costs $9.99 per month and supports unlimited cameras. The 6TB and 12TB plans cost $29.99 and $59.99 per month, respectively, and include the preceding plan’s features. These are US prices displayed on Apple’s main iCloud page.
Backup scope includes downloaded app data, device settings, Home Screen layout, and app organization. Photos, videos, and messages are included only when they are not already synced to iCloud, so the backup’s contents depend on which iCloud services are in use. Apple Watch backup is included with the paired iPhone backup, and iCloud Photos, iCloud Drive, and Messages in iCloud are part of the surrounding ecosystem. Advanced Data Protection offers optional end-to-end encryption. Choose iCloud Backup for Apple device recovery and integrated storage; choose another product if you need computer or server coverage or broader platform support.
iCloud Backup pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Automatically backs up settings, app data, and device layout over Wi-Fi
- Restores from backup during setup of a replacement or erased device
- Optional end-to-end encryption with Advanced Data Protection
- Where it doesn't
- Coverage is limited to iOS devices
- Photos, videos, and messages are backed up only if not already synced to iCloud
- No computer or server backup
iCloud Backup fact sheet, pricing and score →
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