Choose cloud backup when you need a current copy that can restore to a compatible replacement device without buying hardware. Choose a computer-based or removable-storage copy when you need a separate local copy, have a large media library or already manage files on a computer; in every case, check what is included, confirm the backup completed and verify account access before erasing the old device.
People who need a backup route without relying on a home computer and who need to restore important data through a compatible account and replacement device. National Cyber Security Centre and Google guidance support checking the backup route and account access before transfer.
People who can use a Mac or Windows PC to make a local copy before transfer and may need separate external storage for copied files. Apple and Microsoft document computer-based backup, import and file-transfer routes.
People who need to preserve wanted data, confirm account access and then remove personal data rather than leaving files on a device they will no longer keep. This follows guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre, Apple and Google.
Start with the data you need to keep and the device you will restore to, then choose the route and storage capacity that fit that backup scope.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Backup scope | Check whether photos, videos, documents, contacts and device data are included. Review the backup settings before adding cloud capacity or buying a drive. | I want a separate copy of the files and information that would be difficult to replace after the old device is erased. |
| Account access | Confirm the Apple Account, Google Account or other account used for restoration. Check passwords, recovery methods and any device-based verification step. | I need to be able to sign in and retrieve my data after the outgoing phone or tablet has been reset. |
| Completion and restore path | Check the backup date or completion status, then confirm the intended replacement device or storage location can access the copy. Match capacity to the selected data rather than a generic figure. | I want to know the copy is usable before handing over the old device and completing its full erase. |
Cloud and device backups can include different data categories. Google notes that not all Android apps can back up or restore every setting and item of data, while the National Cyber Security Centre notes that a backup can cover selected data or an entire device.
List the files and data categories that must survive the transfer, inspect the backup settings and confirm a completed backup before buying extra capacity or erasing the outgoing device.
Importing photos and videos to a Windows computer is a media-transfer route; it does not by itself show that messages, app data or settings have also been copied.
Use file transfer for the media it actually copies, then separately verify any device-data backup needed for the replacement setup.
The National Cyber Security Centre advises making a backup and checking accounts before erasure. Google also notes that a reset erases phone data and restoration relies on security information.
Check sign-in details and recovery methods on another trusted device where possible, confirm the backup has completed, then begin the full erase process.
Apple states that encrypted computer backups can retain data not included in an unencrypted backup, but the encryption password is required to use the backup.
Keep the encryption password in a secure password manager or another safe recovery method before relying on that backup for a transfer.
Relevant for iPhone and iPad owners choosing between iCloud and computer-based backup before a replacement, sale, gift or trade-in.
Relevant for Android households using Google Account backup, Google Photos or Google One storage while moving to another compatible Android phone.
Relevant for households using a Windows PC to import phone media, store files locally or move computer files through OneDrive or an external drive.
Joybuy storage options for selected-file copies and separate local backups before a phone or tablet is handed over. Check device compatibility, backup scope and restore access before relying on any drive.
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A portable option for compatible USB-C iPhone or iPad users who want to copy selected photos, videos and documents without using a computer.
256GB capacity; USB-C connection; stated iPhone and iPad file-management app support for automatic photo and video backups. Confirm the exact device, app requirements and that copied files open before erasing the device.
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A separate local destination for a phone-and-computer household copying a large photo, video or document library.
2TB capacity; USB connection; stated Acronis utility for scheduled local file backups. It is pre-formatted for Windows, while macOS use requires the stated downloadable driver; check the phone-to-computer workflow and restore path.
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A portable SSD for moving selected files between compatible phones, tablets and computers before a transfer.
1TB capacity; USB-C and USB-A cables included; stated compatibility with iPhone 15/16, Android phones, PCs and Macs. Magnetic attachment for iPhone 15/16 requires the included silicone case or magnetic ring, and wireless MagSafe charging is not supported.
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A separate local drive for households using a compatible computer to retain copied media or computer files.
1TB capacity; USB-C connectivity; stated compatibility with Mac, PC and Android. Check whether the intended phone can write to the drive directly or needs a computer, compatible cable or reformatting.
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A compact option for selected files that need to move between compatible USB-C phones or tablets and a USB-A computer.
512GB capacity; USB-A and Type-C connectors; stated support for Windows, macOS, Android and USB-C iOS devices. Check usable space, file-system compatibility and whether the copied files can be opened on every device you need.
Check the actual amount of data you intend to retain, including photos, videos, documents and any device-data categories supported by the chosen route. The National Cyber Security Centre notes that backup solutions may cover selected files or an entire phone or computer, so a generic capacity figure cannot confirm suitability on its own.
Not automatically. The National Cyber Security Centre recognises USB sticks as removable backup media, but the files a phone can copy to a particular drive and the inclusion of app or device data depend on the device, operating system, app and storage connection. Open copied files and check the intended backup scope before erasing the old phone.
Not necessarily. Cloud backup can suit you when it includes the data you need, has enough available storage and can restore to the intended replacement device. A computer or removable-media copy is more useful when you want a separate local copy, have files outside the cloud route or need to move a larger library through a computer.
Apple states that computer backups are not encrypted by default. Choose encrypted local backup if you need saved passwords, Wi-Fi settings, website history, Health data, call history or Apple Watch Activity data, and keep the encryption password safely because it is required to use that backup.