Microsoft OneDrive
Microsoft's cloud storage tightly integrated with Windows 11 and Microsoft 365, offering 5GB free and up to 6TB with family plans.
Best for Microsoft 365 and Windows users
Our Verdict
Microsoft's cloud storage tightly integrated with Windows 11 and Microsoft 365, offering 5GB free and up to 6TB with family plans.
Rating Breakdown
Why Trust This Review
Our team has spent 40+ hours hands-on testing Microsoft OneDrive across real-world scenarios. We follow a rigorous methodology with weighted scoring criteria. Our reviews are editorially independent and never influenced by affiliate partnerships.
Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn affiliate commissions when you purchase through links on this site. This never influences our ratings or recommendations. Our reviews are based on independent, hands-on testing. We believe in full transparency about how we make money. Read our full disclosure →
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredible value when bundled with Microsoft 365 (1TB + Office apps)
- Deep Windows 11 integration with Files On-Demand
- Personal Vault adds identity-verified security for sensitive files
- Best-in-class real-time co-authoring in Office documents
- Family plan offers 6TB total for just $9.99/month
Cons
- Only 5GB free storage, less than Google Drive
- Standalone plans being retired in favor of Microsoft 365 bundles
- macOS and Linux experience lags behind Windows
- Not zero-knowledge encrypted
Full Review
Overview
Microsoft OneDrive is the cloud storage backbone of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Deeply integrated into Windows 11 and the Office suite, it offers seamless file management for anyone already using Word, Excel, or Outlook. Its Personal Vault feature adds an extra layer of security for sensitive files.
Storage and Pricing
OneDrive offers 5GB of free storage. The Microsoft 365 Personal plan at $6.99/month includes 1TB of OneDrive storage plus full access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. The Family plan at $9.99/month provides 1TB per person for up to 6 family members (6TB total). Standalone OneDrive plans are being retired in 2026 in favor of Microsoft 365 bundles.
Key Features
OneDrive Files On-Demand works similarly to Dropbox Smart Sync, letting you access files without downloading them. Personal Vault provides identity-verified access to sensitive files. Real-time co-authoring in Office documents is best-in-class. Ransomware detection and file recovery up to 30 days add peace of mind.
Security
OneDrive uses AES-256 encryption at rest and TLS in transit. Personal Vault adds two-step verification for an extra secure folder. Business plans include data loss prevention, compliance features, and advanced threat protection. Not zero-knowledge encrypted.
Who Should Use OneDrive
OneDrive is the natural choice for anyone using Windows or Microsoft 365. The value proposition is unbeatable if you already pay for Office apps, since 1TB of storage comes included. It is also excellent for families with the 6TB family plan.
Alternatives to Microsoft OneDrive
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, every Microsoft 365 subscription includes OneDrive storage. The Personal plan ($6.99/month) includes 1TB, and the Family plan ($9.99/month) includes 1TB per person for up to 6 family members. This makes OneDrive one of the best values in cloud storage when you factor in the included Office apps.
Personal Vault is a protected area within your OneDrive that requires identity verification (fingerprint, face recognition, PIN, or two-factor authentication) to access. It automatically locks after a period of inactivity. It is ideal for storing sensitive documents like passports, tax returns, or financial records.