Backblaze offers a simple and affordable solution for backing up your PC data to the cloud. With unlimited storage and automated backups, it’s an attractive option for users with large datasets. However, it’s crucial to understand its limitations regarding version history and deleted file retention.
Introduction
Choosing the right cloud backup service can be overwhelming. Backblaze simplifies the process by automatically backing up nearly everything on your PC to the cloud with unlimited storage. This review explores Backblaze’s features, pricing, and limitations to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your backup needs.
Features and Functionality
Backblaze’s core strength lies in its simplicity. The client software is unobtrusive and automatically backs up new and changed files continuously. While the interface is minimalist, it provides access to essential options without overwhelming less tech-savvy users. It’s important to note that you can’t directly manipulate files stored online; you can only restore them.
Backblaze 2024
Instead of selecting files for backup, Backblaze uses an exclusion-based approach where you specify what not to back up. While ensuring comprehensive data protection for novice users, this method might seem counterintuitive for experienced users accustomed to selecting specific files and folders.
Backblaze restore options
Restoring data is straightforward. You can download files individually or in bulk through the web interface. For larger restores, Backblaze offers a convenient option to ship your data on a hard drive (up to 8TB) for a fee. You can either keep the drive or return it for a refund. Alternatively, you can restore data to Backblaze’s S3-compatible B2 service.
Version History and Deleted Files
A key consideration with Backblaze is its handling of deleted files and file versions. By default, files deleted from your PC are also removed from the cloud after 30 days. Similarly, older versions of revised files are replaced. This 30-day retention can be extended to one year without additional cost. For true “forever” retention, you’ll need to opt for the “Forever” version history, which incurs a small monthly charge per gigabyte.
Accessing deleted files and older revisions requires navigating the restore browser and selecting a specific date range. While functional, this method can be cumbersome if you don’t recall the exact timeframe of the file changes.
Pricing
Backblaze’s pricing is simple: $9/month, $99/year, or $189 for a two-year subscription. This covers unlimited storage for a single PC. While the price has increased recently, it remains competitive for users requiring substantial storage capacity.
Backblaze pricing
Conclusion
Backblaze excels in simplicity and ease of use, making it ideal for users who want a hassle-free backup solution with unlimited storage. However, the limited file version history and deletion retention require careful consideration. Opting for the “Forever” version history is highly recommended for robust data protection. While Backblaze’s pricing is competitive for users with large data needs, users with smaller datasets and specific backup requirements might find more cost-effective alternatives. Choosing the right backup solution depends on individual needs and priorities. If simplicity and unlimited storage are paramount, Backblaze is a strong contender.
