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As our files grow bigger, upgrading physical storage, like external hard drives, can be difficult and expensive. That’s why many people turn to cloud storage. Cloud storage allows us to store, access, and share files easily from anywhere. Services like Dropbox and Google Drive are some of the most popular, but sometimes, the most popular isn’t the best. This is where pCloud shines.
You might be wondering: What is pCloud?
Is it worth your time and money?
In this review, we’ll answer these questions and take a deep dive into pCloud to show you why it might be the best cloud service in 2024.
As someone who has used pCloud for a long time, I’ll share all the positives and negatives, so you can see if this is the right cloud storage for you.
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What Is pCloud?
pCloud is a cloud storage service that allows you to store, manage, and share your files online. Launched in 2013 and based in Switzerland, pCloud offers a secure and user-friendly platform for storing all kinds of digital files, like photos, videos, documents, and music. It helps users keep their files safe, access them from any device, and share them easily with others.
What makes pCloud stand out is its focus on security and privacy, thanks to Switzerland’s strict privacy laws. The service offers a free storage plan with 10GB of space, and its paid plans are very flexible, including a unique lifetime plan that lets you pay once for permanent storage access.
pCloud is compatible with a wide range of devices, including computers (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile devices (iOS and Android), so you can sync and access your files from anywhere. Its additional features, like pCloud Crypto (for extra file encryption) and fast upload/download speeds, make it a popular choice for both individuals and businesses looking for a reliable cloud storage solution.
Here are the facilities provided by pCloud:
- Cloud storage for files and media
- File sharing and collaboration tools
- Automatic file synchronization across devices
- File versioning and recovery
- Client-side encryption with pCloud Crypto
- Accessible via desktop, mobile, and web apps
- Media streaming for audio and video
- Offline file access
- Backup services for external drives
- Extended file history for up to 365 days (paid plan)
- Integration with social media and third-party apps
- Lifetime storage plans option
How to Start Your Journey on pCloud?
Getting started with pCloud is easy, and you can use it across different platforms like desktop, mobile, and the web. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to set it up on all three.
how can I use pCloud in a browser Extension?
Now you can use pCloud on your dedicated browser extension. Find below the image that you can easily access this pCloud’s features.
pCloud Desktop App
The pCloud desktop app is quick to install and very user-friendly. Once you create your pCloud account, you’ll be prompted to download the desktop app. After installation, it creates a virtual drive on your computer, where you can store, sync, and access your files easily. The app also allows automatic syncing between your devices, so you can always have your files at hand.
pCloud Mobile App
For mobile users, pCloud offers an app available on both Google Play (Android) and the Apple Store (iOS). Just download the app, log in with your account, and you can start uploading, syncing, and sharing your files right from your phone or tablet. You also get 5 GB of free storage when you sign up, and the app is perfect for managing your files on the go.
pCloud on the Web
If you prefer using pCloud in your browser, the web version works just as smoothly. After logging into your account, you can upload and manage your files directly from the website. The web interface is clean and easy to navigate, allowing you to organize your files and share links with others, without needing to install any software.
No matter which platform you choose, pCloud makes managing your files a breeze.
How Much Does pCloud Cost? A Breakdown plans
pCloud offers two main types of pricing plans: Annual and Lifetime.
Both options are designed to fit different needs, depending on how long you plan to use the service and the amount of storage you require.
1. Annual Plans:
With the annual plan, you’ll pay a subscription fee every year to continue using pCloud’s storage services. It’s a great option if you prefer spreading out the cost and want flexibility.
2. Lifetime Plans:
pCloud also offers a unique lifetime option, where you pay once and enjoy the storage without any recurring fees. This is perfect for users who want long-term storage without worrying about annual renewals.
Is pCloud Fast for File Transfers?
Cloud services used to be helpful but often suffered from one big issue that is slow transfer speeds.
In this review, I tested how fast pCloud allows you to upload and download files. Keep in mind that the speed will depend mostly on your internet connection.
If your internet is slow, pCloud won’t be able to speed things up. However, with a good internet connection, I found the uploads and downloads to be quick and smooth. pCloud has become a great option for those looking for fast and reliable cloud storage. Whether it’s a small or large file, pCloud handles it efficiently as long as your internet is strong enough.
My Experience with pCloud
I recently started using pCloud, and it’s been a positive experience. The user-friendly interface makes file management easy, and signing up was straightforward—I received 10 GB of free storage right away.
I was impressed by the fast upload and download speeds. Uploading a 3 GB RAR file took less than 30 minutes, while downloading it took about 5 minutes.
The desktop app is helpful, creating a virtual drive for easy access to files directly from my desktop. pCloud also offers file encryption for added security.
Although the free storage is limited and paid plans can be a bit pricey, pCloud is a reliable cloud storage solution. Overall, I’ve had a great experience and look forward to using it in the future.
Key Features of pCloud in 2024
Our review of pCloud in 2024 would be uncomplete without highlighting its impressive features. Despite its affordable pricing, this cloud service offers functionalities that rival more expensive competitors.
Flexible File Management
A key feature of pCloud is its file management system. Unlike many cloud services that offer only basic organisation, pCloud lets you effortlessly sort files by type.
It comes with dedicated folders for music, photos, and videos, making storage and retrieval straightforward. You can also create additional folders and sub-folders as needed.
pCloud includes separate folders for backups and file requests, ensuring they don’t mix with other files. Additionally, you can create RAR archives directly within the app, eliminating the need for external software like WinRAR.
All files are stored on secure servers in Europe and the US. When setting up your account, you can choose a server location that’s closest to you to optimise speed and performance. However, changing the server location later incurs an additional fee, so it’s best to make this choice during account creation.
Quick and Easy File Sharing Solutions
What’s a great cloud service without effortless file sharing? In my experience with pCloud, sharing a file or folder is as simple as two mouse clicks, which is a real time-saver, especially on busy days.
After selecting the file, you’ll see a “Share” option. Clicking it generates a shareable link that you can easily send to friends or family.
You can enhance your sharing options by preventing downloads for those accessing the link, setting an expiration date, or password-protecting the file or folder for confidential information. These features are especially useful for business users who want to keep sensitive information secure.
pCloud has a unique service called pCloud Pass
What is pCloud Pass?
pCloud Pass is a safe password manager for storing your passwords and personal information. It lets you log in to websites with just one click, fill out online forms with your payment details, and create strong passwords using its built-in password generator.
Features:
- Store unlimited passwords, credit card information, and encrypted notes.
- Automatically save your passwords, usernames, and credit card details while browsing.
- Autofill passwords and quickly log in to the apps and websites you use daily.
- Instantly fill payment forms with your credit card information.
- Generate strong and unique passwords.
- Access your passwords and personal data on all your devices, wherever you go.
pCloud Pass is available for desktop (Windows, macOS, and Linux), mobile (Android and iOS), and as a web service through a browser extension or from pass.pcloud.com.
How Much Does pCloud Pass Cost?
In a short you can find the images that has describe the price in three different option link Monthly Plan, Anula Plan and Lifetime Plan
Monthly pCloud plan are as below
Anual pCloud Pass plan
Lifetime pCloud Pass price
Unlimited File Size
One of the standout features of pCloud is that it allows unlimited file sizes for uploads and downloads. This means you can upload large files like Blu-Ray movies, high-resolution images, or FLAC music files without any restrictions, as long as the total size doesn’t exceed the storage you have available. With pCloud’s maximum storage capacity of 2 TB, it’s more than enough for most users.
If you ever need more storage, you can request additional space through the support team, though 2 TB tends to meet the needs of most people. Personally, I’ve found 2 TB to be plenty for my usage.
Backups
Backing up your files with pCloud is simple and convenient. You can back up important folders from your computer and store them safely in pCloud’s cloud storage. One of the best parts is that backups are kept for up to 1 year, allowing you to access your files at any time during this period.
What’s even better is that pCloud allows you to back up files from other cloud services too. If you want to move files from Dropbox, for example, pCloud’s “Third-Party” section makes the process seamless. You can select the third-party provider and back up files from there for easy access in pCloud.
Synchronisation happens automatically, so once your files are backed up, you can access them from any device. This is handy in case your device gets lost or stolen—your files will always be available.
Trash History (Up to 30 Days!)
If you accidentally delete a file, pCloud offers a helpful solution with its Trash History feature. When you delete a file, it goes into the Trash folder, where it’s kept for up to 30 days for premium users and 15 days for free users. During this time, you can easily restore any file you may want back.
This feature provides peace of mind, knowing that accidental deletions aren’t the end of the road—you’ve got time to recover them before they’re permanently gone.
Crypto Folder: Secure Your Files with pCloud Crypto
One of the standout features of pCloud is the Crypto Folder, which offers advanced security through zero-knowledge encryption. This is an optional, paid feature (except for Business users), costing $4.99 per month. It provides client-side encryption, meaning you get to decide which files and folders need extra protection. With zero-knowledge encryption, not even pCloud’s servers can access your encrypted files, ensuring that only you can see them.
However, keep in mind that when using Crypto Folder, you won’t be able to preview photos, videos, or audio files directly. While this is a small inconvenience, the added privacy and security make it worthwhile for sensitive files.
If you’re interested in trying it out, pCloud offers a 14-day free trial for this feature. It’s also important to note that files outside the Crypto Folder are still protected by 256-bit AES encryption, which is already very secure.
Safety & Security: Keeping Your Data Safe
In today’s world, where data breaches and hacking attempts are common, it’s crucial to use a cloud service that prioritises security. pCloud does just that, offering several layers of protection to keep your files safe.
The Crypto Folder provides an extra level of security with zero-knowledge encryption, meaning even pCloud itself cannot access your protected files. So, if a hacker ever breaches pCloud (which is highly unlikely), your important documents will still be safe.
Beyond the Crypto Folder, pCloud uses strong 256-bit AES encryption on all files, along with TLS/SSL protocols to prevent any man-in-the-middle attacks (MITM). You can also enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of protection to your account, ensuring that only you can access it.
Data Protection: Swiss Jurisdiction
pCloud is based in Switzerland, which is known for its strict privacy laws. This means your data is protected by one of the strongest data protection laws in the world. Unlike the EU or US, Switzerland doesn’t take part in data-retention agreements, so your data will remain private and free from government surveillance. pCloud won’t be forced to hand over your information to any authorities or third parties.
This strong commitment to privacy makes pCloud an excellent choice for users who are concerned about data security and protection.
Data Duplication for Added Safety
pCloud takes extra steps to ensure your files are always available. When you upload a file, pCloud duplicates the content across at least three different servers. This means if one server fails, the other two will still hold your data, making it highly unlikely that you’ll ever lose a file due to a server crash.
This multi-server backup system, combined with encryption and strong security protocols, makes pCloud one of the safest and most reliable cloud storage options available.
Final Thoughts
pCloud takes security very seriously, offering advanced encryption with the Crypto Folder and ensuring your files are always backed up across multiple servers. Its Swiss jurisdiction adds an extra layer of privacy, making it a great choice for those who need secure, private, and reliable cloud storage.
pCloud Customer Support: Reliable and Helpful
pCloud provides satisfactory customer support, making it easy to get help when needed. If the detailed FAQ section doesn’t answer your question, there are two main ways to reach out to pCloud’s support team.
First, you can use the contact form on their website. Here, you simply enter your email address and message. Response times usually range between 24 to 72 hours, depending on the complexity of your issue and how busy the support team is.
For quicker assistance, pCloud also offers a phone number: +41 43 508 59 48, though it’s important to note that this is a Switzerland-based number, and it’s not toll-free. While it’s a faster option, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you’re outside Switzerland.
In my personal experience, I’ve always relied on email support, and I’ve had positive results. However, I never encountered any urgent issues, so the slightly longer response time didn’t bother me.
pCloud’s Help Center is also worth mentioning. It provides answers to over 300 common questions, so in many cases, you might not need to contact support at all. This comprehensive resource can often solve problems without needing direct assistance.
Overall, pCloud’s customer support is reliable, offering multiple options to get help, along with a useful self-service Help Center.