Pika Backup
Pika Backup: A free, encrypted Linux file-backup tool for local and remote destinations. Ranked #68 of 150 in Backup Software by our editors (3.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for linux users wanting simple encrypted file backup.
At a glance
- Editor score3.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLinux users wanting simple encrypted file backup
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Server backupNo
- Facts checked23 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open-source Linux desktop application
- Scheduled encrypted backups with deduplication
- Supports local, network, SSH, SFTP, and BorgBackup destinations
Where it doesn't
- Linux-only platform support
- Focused on files and personal data, not complete system recovery
- No verified server or ransomware protection
Our verdict on Pika Backup
Pika Backup is a free, open-source Linux desktop application for backing up personal data. It is aimed at users who want recurring file and folder backups to local drives, network shares, remote servers, or online services without extending the scope to complete system recovery. The product uses BorgBackup as its underlying backup technology and supports both local and remote backup workflows. Its file-focused design makes it a practical fit for personal data protection on Linux, while users needing bare-metal, server-image, or full-system recovery should look elsewhere.
The published product details describe recurring schedules for hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly backups. Repositories can be encrypted, and deduplication of known data can reduce repeated storage of the same information. Pika Backup also provides archive listing and content browsing, along with recovery for individual files and folders. These features give the application a clear emphasis on maintaining accessible personal-data archives rather than managing broad infrastructure backup policies. As an open-source product with a free plan, it is suited to buyers seeking a no-cost desktop backup option.
Its ecosystem fit centers on BorgBackup, SSH, and SFTP, with support for network destinations and pre- and post-backup shell commands. That combination gives Linux users several destination and automation options while keeping the product’s scope narrow. Pika Backup is a sensible choice for encrypted, scheduled file backups on Linux, especially when browsing and restoring selected files matters. It is not the right choice for users who require complete system recovery, server protection, or ransomware protection.
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Pika Backup pricing
Pika Backup fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Computer backup | Yes |
| Mobile backup | No |
| Server backup | No |
| Backup scope | File |
| Restore modes | File |
| Ransomware protection | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | Linux |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 3 integrations: BorgBackup, SSH, SFTP |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | apps.gnome.org |
| Facts checked | 23 Sep 2026 |
Pika Backup integrations
Pika Backup lists 3 integrations on its own site.
- BorgBackup
- SSH
- SFTP
Alternatives to Pika Backup
- Veeam Backup & ReplicationA wide-ranging backup platform for enterprise virtual and hybrid environments.9.4
- Rubrik Security CloudA cyber-recovery platform built around immutable backup, threat investigation, and clean-state recovery.9.2
- NAKIVO Backup & ReplicationA broad VM backup platform with recovery, replication, and disaster-recovery workflows.8.8
See all Pika Backup alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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