Comparison · Cloud storage services
Google Drive vs iCloud Drive: which is better in 2026?
Google Drive ranks higher in our list of cloud storage services (#1 against #6, score 91.5 against 85.5).
- 91.5Editorial score85.5
- 5Platforms5
- YesFree to useYes
- NoOpen sourceNo
Which should you choose?
Choose Google Drive if you want
Users who want free storage tied to Google's office apps.
The most complete free package here, with desktop sync, document scanning in the mobile apps and Docs, Sheets and Slides. Its storage is shared with Gmail and Photos, so a full mailbox leaves less room for files.
Choose iCloud Drive if you want
Apple device owners who want built-in sync.
The easiest choice for Apple households, built into iPhone, iPad and Mac. Its 5 GB free allowance is small, and Apple's page lists no Android app, so Android users rely on iCloud.com.
The main differences
- Only Google Drive runs on Android.
Side by side
 Google Drive |  iCloud Drive | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 91.5 | 85.5 |
| Rank in list | #1 of 12 | #6 of 12 |
| Price | Free plan, paid upgradesFree storage shared with Gmail and Photos; paid Google One plans | Free plan, paid upgrades5 GB free; iCloud+ from $0.99 a month for 50 GB |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | WindowsmacOSAndroidiOSWebWindows, macOS, Android, iOS, Web | iOS, iPadOSmacOSWindowsWebiOS, iPadOS, macOS, Windows, Web |
| Made by | Apple | |
| Free storage | Up to 15 GB, shared with Gmail and Photos | 5 GB |
| Self-hosted | No | No |
| Best for | Users who want free storage tied to Google's office apps | Apple device owners who want built-in sync |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Google Drive vs iCloud Drive
- Is Google Drive better than iCloud Drive?
- Google Drive ranks higher in our list of cloud storage services (#1 against #6, score 91.5 against 85.5). Google Drive is best for: users who want free storage tied to Google's office apps. iCloud Drive is best for: Apple device owners who want built-in sync.
- Which is cheaper, Google Drive or iCloud Drive?
- Google Drive: Free storage shared with Gmail and Photos; paid Google One plans. iCloud Drive: 5 GB free; iCloud+ from $0.99 a month for 50 GB.
- Do Google Drive and iCloud Drive run on the same platforms?
- Google Drive supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Web. iCloud Drive supports iOS, iPadOS, macOS, Windows, Web.
Choosing between the two
Learning Center
1:17How to decide between two good optionsSettle a close call by sorting it by how hard it is to undo, setting a deadline, scoring the criteria as a tie-breaker and writing down why you chose.
1:20How to compare products fairly: what to keep in mindDefine the job, cap the must-haves, compare like with like, count total cost over one period and weigh the criteria. Includes a worked example.
