Choose cloud backup if you want an automatically updated copy available on another device, and removable storage if you prefer a local copy you can disconnect and store separately. For important files, using both can provide two recovery routes, but you still need to check what is copied, protect your account where relevant and test a restore.
If you regularly add photos or documents on a phone and computer, check that the files from each device are included in a recent, recoverable copy. The UK National Cyber Security Centre identifies personal files such as photos and documents as data worth backing up.
If losing family photos or important documents is your main concern, consider how to keep a separate copy and whether a cloud copy and disconnected removable storage fit your routine. The UK National Cyber Security Centre recommends keeping backups in a separate safe location.
If your photo library is growing, compare its current size and likely growth with the space available in your account or on a storage device. Adding capacity does not by itself ensure that files are being backed up.
Choose it when: You add files across devices and want an up-to-date copy accessible from another device.
Trade-off: Uploads and restores depend on internet access, account security and available storage; synchronised deletions may also affect connected devices.
Choose it when: You want a local copy of selected files or a computer library and can back it up regularly.
Trade-off: You need to manage the backup routine, check device compatibility and store the media separately; disconnect it after backing up.
Choose it when: You want both an accessible cloud copy and a removable copy kept apart from the original.
Trade-off: You will need to maintain and check two backup routines, and test that both copies can be restored.
The UK National Cyber Security Centre and Northern Ireland Cyber Security Centre advise keeping backup copies separate from the original data. Whichever route you choose, check that the files you care about are included and practise restoring one.
| Concern | What to check when buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping new files up to date | Check which devices and folders are included, when copies are made and whether there is enough account space. | If I add photos on a phone and documents on a computer, I want recent files from both in the backup. Around 36% of consumers put keeping several devices up to date first. |
| Recovering a separate copy | Check how to restore files; disconnect removable media after backing up and store it separately. | If a device is lost or files are deleted, I want a copy that remains separate and that I know how to restore. Around 29% of consumers prioritise an independently recoverable copy. |
| Capacity and ongoing commitment | Compare the size of the files to protect with available space; check shared account allowances and plan renewal and exit terms. | If my photo library is growing, I want enough capacity without taking on a plan I cannot maintain. Around 21% of consumers prioritise capacity and ongoing cost. |
| Compatibility with removable media | Check the device’s connector, card slot or reader, and the software or operating-system requirements. | If I want to move files using a card or drive, I need it to connect to the devices I actually use. Around 14% of consumers put removable-media compatibility first. |
Apple says that deleting a photo from iCloud Photos also deletes it from devices using the service. A synchronised library and its recovery options are not the same as a separately stored copy.
Check the service’s recovery procedure and keep another copy of irreplaceable files if you need a separate recovery route.
A separate copy also takes time to create and maintain.
A connected drive may be affected alongside the computer, while a copy stored with the original may be lost in the same incident.
After backing up, disconnect the media, store it separately and test that a sample file can be restored. The Northern Ireland Cyber Security Centre also advises disconnecting an external drive when a backup is not in progress.
A larger allowance does not confirm that the right devices and folders are being backed up. Google says its account storage is shared across Drive, Gmail and Photos.
Check account usage, selected folders, plan terms and a recent backed-up file before paying for more space or deleting originals.
A paid cloud tier may involve a recurring subscription, so check the plan’s renewal and exit terms.
iCloud+ is relevant if you use iCloud Photos and files across Apple devices; Apple’s UK plan page lists several storage tiers.
Google One adds capacity to a Google Account used for Drive, Gmail and Photos.
OneDrive and Microsoft 365 plans may suit people already using OneDrive for files across devices.
The WD Elements Portable 2 TB is an example of a USB-connected local drive for a computer file library.
The 1 TB Portable SSD T7 is a removable-storage option for transferring files between compatible devices.
SanDisk’s 128 GB Ultra Dual Drive Go and 128 GB Ultra SD card serve different connection needs: USB-C/USB-A file transfer and compatible camera slots.
These choices focus on removable storage for copying or keeping personal files. Check device compatibility and how you will keep a backup separate from the original.
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Consider it for storing or moving files between compatible devices; the listing describes compatibility with PCs, Macs and Android devices.
1 TB capacity; USB Type-C. Check your device’s connection and the backup process rather than assuming file storage is automatic.
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Consider it for moving or copying photos and videos from compatible USB-C devices; the listing describes app-based automatic photo and video backup.
128 GB capacity; USB-C connection. A compatible USB-C device is required, and you should check which files the app includes.
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Consider it for a larger computer file library when you want a local copy and can maintain a regular backup routine.
4 TB capacity; USB connectivity; the listing describes scheduled backup software. It also says macOS use may require a downloadable driver.
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Consider it for keeping a removable copy of photos and documents from a compatible computer.
4 TB capacity; USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface. The listing specifies Windows 10 or later recognition and says reformatting may be required for Mac or other operating systems.
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Consider it for a portable set of files to move between compatible phones, tablets and computers.
512 GB capacity; USB-A and USB-C interfaces. Check the connection and file-copy process for each device you intend to use.
Not necessarily. Apple says deleting a photo from iCloud Photos also deletes it from devices using the service; its Recently Deleted feature allows recovery for 30 days. Keep a separately stored copy if you need another recovery route.
Check that recent photos and the intended folders appear in the backup, then practise restoring a sample file. For removable media, finish the backup, disconnect the device and store it separately.
Do not assume it does. Check the phone’s connector and software, the drive’s supported devices, which folders are copied and whether the transfer leaves a separate copy. Compatibility depends on the specific phone and drive.
Check your current and likely storage use, what the account allowance is shared with, the plan’s renewal and cancellation terms, and how to export files if you leave. Compare the details for the specific account and plan.
The official safety guidance for personal backups does not establish a legal requirement to buy a particular device or service. Keeping a separate copy and testing how to restore it are practical backup steps, not a claimed statutory purchasing mandate.