Why Swiss cloud storage is the best choice
Swiss data protection
Your files are subject to the strict Swiss Data Protection Act (nDSG). That gives you maximum privacy against access from abroad.
End-to-end encryption
Providers such as ProtonDrive and pCloud rely on zero-knowledge encryption, so even the host cannot see your content.
Eco-responsible
Swiss data centres such as Infomaniak's run on 100 % renewable energy and use environmentally friendly cooling.
Real human support
Direct, easy-to-reach support helps quickly and competently with technical questions. No fuss, no endless hold queues.
Our pick of the best cloud services at a glance
We have selected five high-quality cloud services. If you want your data hosted in Switzerland, Infomaniak and Proton are in good hands: both are competitively priced and deliver strong quality.
| Provider | Free | Entry plan | Premium plans | Best for | Action |
|---|
| Infomaniak kDrive | 15 GB | 4,90 CHF/mo. (2 TB) | 11,80 CHF/mo. (6 TB) | Swiss winner | More info → |
| ProtonDrive | 1 GB | 4,00 €/mo. (200 GB) | 10,00 €/mo. (500 GB) | Maximum privacy | More info → |
| pCloud | 10 GB | 3,99 €/mo. (500 GB) | 7,99 €/mo. (2 TB) / lifetime options | Long-term storage | More info → |
| Google Drive | 15 GB | 1,99 $/mo. (100 GB) | 9,99 $/mo. (2 TB) | Teamwork & collaboration | More info → |
| Apple iCloud | 5 GB | 0,99 $/mo. (50 GB) | 2,99 $/mo. (200 GB) / 9,99 $/mo. (2 TB) | Apple users | More info → |
In-depth analysis of the best cloud services
Rating: 4.8 / 5from 4,90 CHF / month (2 TB)
Infomaniak is based in Switzerland, and its kDrive cloud storage is particularly well suited to anyone who cares about privacy. The data centres are located exclusively in Switzerland, so your data is covered by strict Swiss data protection laws.
kDrive offers 15 GB of free storage, competitive paid plans and the full set of features for syncing and sharing files. If you have a question, you can reach a technician within minutes. And all data centres run on 100 % renewable energy.
Why we like Infomaniak kDrive
- 100 % hosted in Switzerland (nDSG compliant)
- Very good value for money (2 TB from 4,90 CHF/month)
- Easy-to-reach, competent technical support
- 100 % renewable energy and a real environmental commitment
- Built-in office suite for editing documents
Drawbacks
- No standard zero-knowledge end-to-end encryption like Proton
Rating: 4.8 / 5from 4,00 € / month (200 GB)
ProtonDrive comes from the respected ProtonMail team and is the right choice if maximum privacy matters to you. It is based in Switzerland and end-to-end encryption is applied throughout, so not even Proton can access your files.
The service is fully subject to Swiss data protection laws and is fully transparent about how data is handled.
Why we like ProtonDrive
- True end-to-end encryption (zero-knowledge)
- Headquarters and infrastructure entirely in Switzerland
- Maximum security and protection from unauthorised access
- Seamless integration into the Proton ecosystem (Mail, VPN, Pass)
Drawbacks
- Free storage of 1 GB is rather small
- Fewer advanced tools for editing documents together
Rating: 4.7 / 5from 3,99 € / month (or lifetime from 199 €)
pCloud is a storage provider based in Switzerland that combines security and functionality very flexibly. Besides monthly plans, it offers a unique lifetime option (lifetime licences). Over the long run, that works out extremely cheap.
Why we like pCloud
- Unique lifetime payment options (no monthly plan needed)
- 10 GB of free storage
- Cross-platform access & excellent app performance
- Optional client-side encryption (pCloud Crypto)
Drawbacks
- End-to-end encryption (Crypto) costs extra
- No native tools for online collaboration
Rating: 4.5 / 5from 1,99 $ / month (100 GB)
Google Drive offers 15 GB of free storage and is fully integrated with Google Docs, Sheets and Gmail. Ideal if you collaborate in real time across all platforms.
Why we like Google Drive
- 15 GB of free storage
- Excellent tools for real-time collaboration
- High compatibility across all systems
Drawbacks
- Data is used for advertising and optimisation purposes
- No end-to-end encryption by default
- Customer service is weak by comparison
Rating: 4.4 / 5from 0,99 $ / month (50 GB)
iCloud is built into the Apple ecosystem (iPhone, iPad, Mac) and makes automatic backups. Apple does not scan files for advertising purposes, but the service is aimed mainly at users of Apple devices.
Why we like Apple iCloud
- Tight integration with iOS and macOS
- No data scanning for advertising
- Low entry prices
Drawbacks
- Only 5 GB of free storage
- Limited use on Windows/Android
Guide & FAQ: how to find the right cloud storage
Which storage capacity is best for me?
For documents and a few photos, 50 to 200 GB is often enough. If you store lots of photos, videos or backups from several devices, 2 TB is the better fit. Start with a small plan and switch if needed. Most providers let you upgrade at any time.
Are my files safe in the cloud?
Reputable providers encrypt your data in transit and on their servers. The highest level of protection comes from zero-knowledge encryption, which ProtonDrive uses by default. Add a strong password and two-factor authentication to complete the picture.
What are the advantages of online storage over local storage?
Your files are reachable from any device, sync automatically and survive even if your device is lost or breaks. They are also very easy to share.
Which cloud services are the most privacy-friendly?
Swiss providers such as ProtonDrive and Infomaniak kDrive are subject to strict Swiss data protection law. ProtonDrive goes furthest with end-to-end encryption, while kDrive scores with data centres located exclusively in Switzerland.
Can I use online storage to work with other people?
Yes. Google Drive is particularly strong for real-time collaboration, and Infomaniak kDrive comes with a built-in office suite. ProtonDrive and pCloud are better suited to storing and sharing files securely.
What happens if my cloud subscription expires or I stop paying?
That depends on the provider. As a rule, you can still view and download your files but cannot upload anything new while you are over the free allowance. Read the provider's terms and back up important data locally in good time.
What is the difference between free cloud storage and a paid subscription?
Free plans offer little space, from 1 GB at Proton up to 15 GB at Google and Infomaniak. Paid plans give you much more capacity, and often extra features and better support.
How do I choose the right cloud service for my needs?
Decide on your priority first: privacy (ProtonDrive, kDrive), price over the years (pCloud lifetime), collaboration (Google Drive) or Apple integration (iCloud). Then try the service on its free offer before you pay.
Can I also access my cloud files offline?
Yes, with most providers you can mark selected files and folders for offline access in the app. Changes are synced as soon as you are back online.
What types of files can I store in the cloud?
Practically all of them: documents, photos, videos, music, PDFs and backups. Just watch for any limits on maximum file size and the provider's terms of use.
Conclusion: what is the best choice for Switzerland?
The best cloud service depends on your priorities. We clearly recommend keeping important data safely stored in a cloud:
- Infomaniak kDrive: Perfect for a Swiss solution with a strong environmental focus, top support and unbeatable value for money.
- ProtonDrive: Ideal if you demand maximum privacy and end-to-end encryption throughout.
- pCloud: An excellent choice if you would rather pay once (lifetime plan).
Secure your data with Swiss privacy standards
Try the free offers from Infomaniak or Proton and test the service with no commitment.
Discover Infomaniak kDrive now →