iCloud vs. OneDrive: 2026 Comparison

OneDrive and iCloud support document management but cater to very different user needs—enterprise-level collaboration vs. personal device syncing.

Here’s what OneDrive users like about this feature:

• Smooth integration with Microsoft Office apps for real-time editing

• Folder-level permission settings for teams and departments

• Automatic version history and easy file recovery

• Centralized dashboard for file organization and quick access

Here’s what iCloud users like about this feature:

• Simple folder interface that syncs instantly across iPhone, iPad, and Mac

• Minimal setup needed—ideal for backing up and sharing personal files

• Native app support for Notes, Pages, and Numbers

• Automatic updates across devices without manual uploads

Some users report limitations with document management in both tools:

• OneDrive users say the setup can be confusing, especially on non-Windows devices

• iCloud lacks granular permissions, versioning depth, and multi-user editing support

Document management for OneDrive: Of 202 reviewers, 92% said this feature was important or highly important. It’s a strong choice for team collaboration and file control.

Document management for iCloud: Among 221 reviewers, 88% rated this as a key feature. It's best for users focused on personal productivity and Apple ecosystem syncing.

Both tools emphasize security, but OneDrive leans more toward the enterprise, while iCloud prioritizes seamless device-level protection for individuals.

Here’s what OneDrive users like about this feature:

• End-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication for added safety

• Personal vault for storing sensitive files with identity verification

• Admin features, such as custom link expiration and permission settings

• Compliance with GDPR and other industry regulations

Here’s what iCloud users like about this feature:

• Native support for device backups across iPhone, iPad, and Mac

• Built-in two-factor authentication and Find My integration

• Automatic syncing and encryption for peace of mind

• Easy file access without complex setup or permissions

Customers frequently express concerns regarding the security of data storage in both platforms.

• OneDrive’s advanced permissions can be complex to manage across large teams

• iCloud lacks manual encryption and detailed control over file recovery or third-party access

Secure data storage for OneDrive: Of 265 reviewers, 99% marked this as important or highly important. Its enterprise-grade features make it ideal for users handling sensitive or regulated data.

Secure data storage for iCloud: Among 221 reviewers, 97% said this feature mattered. It’s best suited for personal data backup and simple, automated security across Apple devices.

Both platforms offer access control, but OneDrive is built for organizational oversight, while iCloud focuses on personal device-level security.

Here’s what OneDrive users like about this feature:

• Active Directory integration for centralized access management

• File- and folder-level permission controls for individual or group users

• Share settings with expiration dates and restricted access links

• Admin dashboards for managing large teams across departments

Here’s what iCloud users like about this feature:

• Seamless use of Face ID and two-factor authentication for secure access

• Simple sharing permissions for files, folders, and photos

• Device-based security without requiring a complex setup

• Automatic protection tied to Apple ID and device trust

Users have reported limitations with access controls and permissions in both tools:

• OneDrive’s permission structure can feel overly complex for casual users or small teams

• iCloud lacks role-based access and group-level control, limiting business use cases

Access controls/permissions for OneDrive: Of 334 reviewers, 89% marked this feature as important or highly important. Users appreciate the enterprise-level control, but note that it takes time to set up and manage across organizations.

Access controls/permissions for iCloud: Among 224 reviewers, 89% also rated this as important. It’s praised for simplicity and strong default security, but falls short on collaboration or granular permissions.