Choose device-native cloud backup when you want an automatic copy away from your phone and have sufficient account storage. Choose a computer or external SSD when you want a local copy and can regularly connect, copy and check it; for irreplaceable photos or documents, a separately maintained cloud and local copy reduces reliance on one location or account.
Distinguish iCloud-synchronised content from a full device backup, check whether iCloud capacity is sufficient and understand when an encrypted computer backup is needed for Health, Activity and Keychain data. Apple Support explains that these backup methods include different categories of data.
Check the shared Google Account storage used by Photos, Drive, Gmail and WhatsApp backups, then decide whether tidying storage, increasing cloud capacity or keeping a separate local copy fits your routine. Google notes that restoration can vary by phone, Android version and app.
Consider the difference between automatic cloud backup and a computer or external-drive copy that you maintain yourself. A local route needs a compatible connection, enough storage and regular checks that files can still be accessed.
Start with the data you need to recover, then check storage capacity, connection requirements and how often you can maintain the backup routine.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Backup and restore scope | Check which photos, files, settings and app data are included; confirm how each category is restored; review differences between synchronisation and device backup. | I want important content stored separately from the phone, without assuming every setting, message or app record is included. |
| Cloud capacity | Review storage used by photos, videos, files, email and messaging backups; check the next backup size; compare ongoing subscription costs with the capacity you need. | I want to know whether my camera roll is competing with other account data before I add cloud storage. |
| Local-copy compatibility | Check computer free space, ports, a data-transfer-capable cable, phone permissions and the external drive's supported connection type. | I need a practical way to transfer files rather than assuming an external drive alone will back up my phone. |
| Password and access planning | For encrypted local backups, confirm the password-storage method before enabling encryption; test that copied files or backups can be accessed when needed. | I want sensitive backup data protected without losing access because an essential password has been forgotten. |
Backup scope differs by platform and method. Apple excludes some iCloud-synchronised categories from device backups, while Google says some Android apps may not back up or restore all settings and data.
Before deleting, resetting or replacing a phone, identify the data that matters and confirm where each category is stored and how it can be restored.
Google storage can be shared across services, so a photo-only estimate may not reflect the capacity needed for files, email or messaging backups. Reaching the limit can stop new Google Photos backups.
Review storage use by service, estimate the next device backup and see whether safely removing unwanted files solves the problem before choosing a larger tier.
A cloud route can involve a recurring subscription when the capacity you need exceeds the available allowance.
Samsung states that the T7 Shield's quoted maximum sequential speeds depend on USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, a compatible cable and UASP on the host system.
Check the ports and data-transfer capability of the phone, computer and cable. If transfers are occasional, prioritise reliable capacity and compatibility over headline speed.
A compatible host device or cable may be needed to use the drive at its stated maximum speed.
Apple says encryption is required for Health and Activity data in a computer backup, but an encrypted-backup password cannot be recovered if it is forgotten.
Use a strong unique password and keep it in a secure password manager or another safe recovery method before relying on encrypted backups.
Relevant for iPhone and iPad owners choosing between iCloud Backup, iCloud Photos and Mac or Windows computer backup.
Relevant for Android owners using a Google Account for device data, photos, videos and broader cloud storage.
Relevant for people using a Windows computer as the first local destination for iPhone or Android photos and videos.
Relevant for shoppers considering a portable SSD as a removable local destination after copying phone media to a compatible computer or supported host device.
These Joybuy options are portable external SSDs for a local-copy routine involving a computer or compatible phone and host device. They are storage destinations, so check the transfer and restore process before relying on one as your only backup.
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A removable local destination for large exported media libraries or computer-held backups.
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A portable local-copy option for media exported through a computer or compatible Android workflow.
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A compact removable destination for periodic copies of personal photos and files.
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Worth considering for a stated iPhone 15 or iPhone 16 media workflow, as well as computer and Android file transfers.
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A local storage option for people carrying copies between a Mac, PC or compatible Android device.
No. Apple Support states that an iCloud device backup does not include photos when iCloud Photos is enabled because those photos are already synchronised to iCloud. Check both iCloud Photos and iCloud Backup settings if you want photos and device settings protected.
Check the Google Account used for backup, available shared storage, Android version, selected backup categories and the apps that matter to you. Google says restoration varies by phone, Android version and app, and some apps may not back up or restore all settings and data.
Yes. Apple says you can connect the iPhone with its cable, unlock it, trust the computer if prompted, then use Apple Devices on a PC or iTunes where applicable. Select encrypted local backup if you need Health, Activity or Keychain data, and retain the encryption password safely.
No. An external SSD is storage rather than a complete backup service. You still need a compatible transfer method, enough capacity, a clear destination and a routine for checking that copied files can be opened; Microsoft notes that Windows import requires a data-capable cable and an unlocked phone.
No universal guarantee should be assumed. The National Cyber Security Centre describes cloud storage and removable media as separate locations for backup copies, but you should still check account recovery, device access, backup scope, password management and whether the chosen service can restore the data you need.