Pika Backup review
A free, encrypted Linux file-backup tool for local and remote destinations.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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.
Pika Backup pros and cons
- 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
Pika Backup fact sheet, pricing and score →
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