# OneDrive Pricing: A Comprehensive Guide | Capterra

> Check out the OneDrive pricing guide to understand the cost of different pricing plans, features, and insights on how to choose the right plan.

Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/pricing

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OneDrive Pricing Guide 2025

Last updated on June 11, 2025

Written by [Shephalii Kapoor](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/skapoor/)

Writer

Edited by [Mehar Luthra](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mehar-luthra/)

Editor

Pricing for OneDrive

[4.5 (12686)](#reviews)

User rating:[

4.5

](#reviews)

Based on (12,686) reviews

## Overview of OneDrive pricing

[OneDrive](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/) is a highly-rated cloud storage solution offered by Microsoft. It allows users to store and access their files online from any device with an internet connection. This means you can save your documents, photos, and other files to OneDrive and access them from your computer, phone, or tablet. The product is featured in our [2024 Capterra Shortlist for Cloud Storage](https://www.capterra.com/cloud-storage-software/shortlist/).

OneDrive is a part of the Microsoft 365 suite. When you subscribe to a Microsoft 365 plan, you typically get access to a range of tools, including OneDrive and other productivity apps such as Teams and Outlook. Microsoft offers plans for home and business use. Home plans have four tiers: Free, Basic, Personal, and Family. Business plans have three tiers: OneDrive for Business, Business Basic, and Basic Standard. The plans vary in features and functionalities, allowing teams of all sizes to find a solution that meets their requirements. 

We analyzed our database of verified user reviews and interactions to help you identify the critical distinctions between each plan and choose the right one based on your team size and project complexity. Let’s compare these plans in detail.

Microsoft 365

$0.00

* * *

It Includes

-   15 GB of mailbox storage
-   Outlook.com email and calendar
-   5 GB data

Microsoft 365 Basic

$1.99

Flat Rate,Per Month

* * *

It Includes

-   100 GB of cloud storage
-   100 GB of mailbox storage
-   Ad-free Outlook and mobile email and calendar with advanced security features
-   Web and Mobile Versions of Office Apps

Microsoft 365 Personal

$9.99

Flat Rate,Per Month

* * *

It Includes

-   Up to 6 TB of cloud storage (1 TB per person)
-   100 GB of mailbox storage
-   Data and device protection for the entire family with Microsoft Defender
-   AI Image Generator
-   Device Protection

Microsoft 365 Family

$12.99

Flat Rate,Per Month

* * *

It Includes

-   Up to 6 TB of secure cloud storage (1 TB per person)
-   Microsoft Designer AI-powered image creator and editor
-   Clipchamp video editor with exclusive filters and effects
-   OneDrive ransomware protection for your family’s photos and files

Microsoft 365 Business Basic

$6.00

Per User,Per Month

* * *

It Includes

-   Identity and access management
-   Web and mobile versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
-   Custom business email (you@yourbusiness.com)
-   1 TB of cloud storage per user

Microsoft 365 Business Standard

$12.50

Per User,Per Month

The latest information on pricing is available on Microsoft’s website.

## Cost breakdown

Designed to meet the needs of different types of users, from small teams to large organizations, Microsoft offers a flexible pricing structure, and OneDrive is available with all plans. With these multiple options, teams can select the plan that best aligns with their goals and budget.

### Starting price

#### Home

OneDrive is available as a part of the Microsoft suite, which features a Free version of its Home plan. All you need to do is to sign in to your Microsoft account. This version is meant for one user and offers 5 GB of cloud storage. As you go up, the Basic plan starts at $1.99 per month or $19.99 per year. This plan also supports one user but offers storage up to 100 GB. The Personal plan, starting at $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year, offers 1 TB of cloud storage with one user support. Upgrading to the Family plan costs you $12.99 per month or $129.99 per year. This plan is meant for up to six people and offers up to 6 TB of cloud storage (1 TB per person).

#### Business

The Business plan has three subscriptions. This plan has one dedicated subscription for OneDrive, which is called OneDrive for Business, starting at $5 per user per month, billed annually. You get 1 TB of cloud storage with this plan, along with file sharing and other capabilities. Next is the Business Basic plan, which starts at $6 per user per month, billed annually. This plan includes OneDrive, along with other apps such as Teams and Sharepoint. The Business Standard plan, starting at $12.50 per user per month, billed annually, offers you access to OneDrive with all other Microsoft apps, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. 

OneDrive offers a 30-day free trial of most of its plans (for up to 25 users). This trial period lets you assess how well the plans meet your business needs, helping you decide about upgrading.

### Billing options

Microsoft 365 customers can choose from monthly or annual billing cycles. 

The annual subscriptions offer a discounted rate that can result in significant savings over the course of a year. For individuals and businesses with long-term storage and productivity needs, an annual plan offers a stable and consistent service. With the annual plan, businesses can pay month-to-month or in one lump-sum payment.

On the other hand, monthly billing offers greater flexibility, allowing users to adjust or cancel their plans as needed. This is ideal for those who are unsure of their long-term requirements. Also, monthly billing requires a smaller initial investment, making it more accessible for those with limited budgets.

You can use major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, to pay for Microsoft products. Additionally, you can opt for PayPal payments on many of its products and services. If you have a Microsoft subscription with recurring billing, you can change how you pay at any time. You can also cancel or turn off recurring billing for a Microsoft subscription.

### Feature differentiation

OneDrive is a part of all Microsoft plans. However, you get additional apps and features with each plan, offering different levels of functionality. 

-   **User limit:** If you opt for a plan under the Home module, you get up to one user support with the Free, Microsoft 365 Basic, and Microsoft 365 Personal plans. However, the Microsoft 365 Family plan allows you to accommodate up to six users. Microsoft Business Basic and Standard plans to support up to 300 users. 
-   **Storage:** Each Microsoft plan offers different storage capacity to users. For example, Microsoft 365, in its Free version, offers 5 GB of cloud storage. The Basic and Personal plans offer 100 GB and 1 TB of storage, respectively. While the Family plan offers up to 6TB cloud storage, the business plans, including Microsoft OneDrive for Business, Business Basic, and Business Standard offers you 1 TB of cloud storage per user.
    
-   **Mailbox storage:** While the Free version offers you 15GB of mailbox storage, the Basic and Personal plans provide 100GB of mailbox storage. If you consider the Microsoft 365 Family plan, you get up to 600GB of mailbox storage (100GB per person).
    
-   **Included applications:** Each Microsoft plan includes different productivity apps to simplify your workflows. For instance, the Microsoft 365 Basic plan offers you access to Outlook, while the Personal plan includes other apps, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. All the plans, however, include OneDrive. If you opt for the Business module, you get a dedicated plan for OneDrive. 

## What users say about OneDrive pricing

Our team analyzed 600+ reviews from verified users of OneDrive on our website in the last two years to understand their views on the software’s pricing. 

Users praised Microsoft OneDrive for its affordability, especially because of its bundling with Microsoft 365 plans, which makes it cost-effective for personal, family, and organizational use. Users appreciate its ability to minimize hardware needs and provide flexibility in storage options. However, some express a desire for student discounts and note that bundling with Microsoft Office can be inconvenient if those services are not needed. While it is affordable for nonprofit organizations, its adoption in office settings is limited due to pricing concerns. Overall, OneDrive offers a fair monthly plan with adjustable storage options.

Here are some user review excerpts about OneDrive pricing[\[1\]](#footnotes):

Jaime Valeriano R.Education StudentEducation Management2+ years

I just wish that they have a premium version where the students can get discounts since it is very helpful for us to have a cloud storage with a big size available.

October 28, 2022

Kyle L.CopywriterWriting and Editing1-2 years

Onedrive is definitely one of the most affordable cloud storage systems available on the market. And it's even more cost-effective when looking at using the full Office 365 personal or family plans.

October 31, 2022

Turan A.IT ExpertAutomotive2+ years

It is very simple to use and set up. Since it is under MS 365, it improves business processes at a reasonable level thanks to its easy distribution and licensing feature. It provides freedom to users and provides cost advantage by minimizing hardware needs.

January 26, 2023

[Read more OneDrive reviews here](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/reviews/).

## Detailed breakdown of OneDrive pricing plans

### Home

#### Microsoft 365 Free

**Ideal for:** Basic users who need access to web-based versions of Microsoft apps with limited storage

Microsoft 365’s Free plan is ideal for single users. This plan includes OneDrive but with a limited 5 GB of cloud storage, allowing you to store and access your files online. Other than OneDrive, this plan includes web and mobile versions of office productivity apps, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. It also offers you 15 GB of mailbox storage. 

**Free plan features**[**\[2\]**](#footnotes)**:**

-   **Personal vault:** Securely store your most important files, photos, and videos. You can access these files anywhere with identity verification. With this plan, you can store up to three files in your vault. 
-   **OneDrive photo and file backup:** Automatically back up your photos and files from your devices to your OneDrive cloud storage. This means that even if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, your important files will be safe and accessible. 
-   **Outlook email and calendar:** Access web and mobile versions of Microsoft Outlook for email and calendar. You can create, read, reply, and forward emails from any device with an internet connection. Additionally, you can schedule events and manage your schedule from anywhere.
    

_Personal vault in OneDrive (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/)_)_

#### Microsoft 365 Basic

**Priced at:** $1.99 per month or $19.99 per year

**Ideal for:**  Individuals who need more storage and advanced email features

Microsoft 365’s Basic plan offers 100 GB of cloud storage, allowing you to store a significant amount of files, photos, and documents online. With this plan, you can safeguard unlimited files up to your OneDrive storage limit. What’s more, you also have access to Microsoft support experts, which can be beneficial when you encounter technical issues or need assistance with your account. This plan offers you 100 GB of mailbox storage as well. 

**Basic plan features**[**\[2\]**](#footnotes)**:**

-   **OneDrive ransomware protection:** Safeguard your files from malicious attacks using ransomware protection. This feature monitors your files for suspicious activity, alerts you to potential threats, and allows you to restore your files to previous versions. 
-   **Expiring sharing links:** Securely share files with others by generating unique links that expire after a set period. You can customize the expiration date and time, ensuring the shared files are accessible only for a specific duration.
    
-   **Files restore:** Restore your entire OneDrive to a previous time within the last 30 days. You can use this feature to recover files from accidental mass deletion, corruption, ransomware, or other catastrophic events.
    

_Version history in OneDrive (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/)_)_

#### Microsoft 365 Personal

**Priced at:** $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year

**Ideal for:** Individuals who need premium Office apps for personal use on multiple devices

Microsoft 365’s Personal plan offers you 1 TB of cloud storage and 100 GB of mailbox storage with desktop versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. This plan also provides you with advanced file and photo protection with OneDrive, along with advanced security features, such as password-protected sharing links. Similar to the other two plans, this plan is also meant for a single user only.

**Personal plan features**[**\[2\]**](#footnotes)**:**

-   **Expandable storage:** Increase your cloud storage beyond the initial 1 TB limit. You can add more storage as needed, ensuring you have ample space for all your files, photos, and documents.
    
-   **Password-protected sharing links**: Set and require a password on shared files or folders to prevent unintended recipients from accessing them. This feature allows you to add an extra layer of security to your shared files.
    
-   **Multipage scan:** Use your phone to scan and save multiple pages of printed documents, receipts, business cards, or whiteboard notes. With multipage scanning, you can efficiently digitize your paper documents and store them electronically.
    
-   **AI automation**: Microsoft 365 Personal offers an AI productivity tool called Copilot that's integrated into the Microsoft 365 suite of applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook. It boosts productivity by automating tasks, generating content, and providing intelligent suggestions.
    

_File sharing in OneDrive (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/)_)_

#### Microsoft 365 Family

**Priced at:** $12.99 per month or $129.99 per year

**Ideal for:** Families or small groups who need to share premium Office apps and storage

Microsoft 365’s Family plan supports up to six user accounts and offers 1 TB of cloud storage per person. Along with the features included in the other three plans, this plan, similar to the Personal plan, offers data and device protection for the entire family with Microsoft Defender. Additionally, it offers 100 GB of mailbox storage per person. Also like the Personal plan, the Family plan offers expandable storage of up to 2 TB for a monthly fee. 

**Family plan features**[**\[2\]**](#footnotes)**:**

-   **Offline folders:** Access entire folders on your OneDrive even when you're not connected to the internet. This means you can work on your files offline, such as on a plane or train, and your changes will be synced to the cloud when you reconnect to the internet. 
-   **Mobile apps:** Download the OneDrive app to access, share, edit, and annotate your files on the go. These mobile apps keep you connected to your files, allowing you to work and collaborate from anywhere, anytime.
    
-   **Increased sharing limit:** Share 10 times more content per day than allowed with the free version of OneDrive. This is beneficial for families or small teams who frequently collaborate on projects and need to share large amounts of data. 

_Personal vault in OneDrive (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/)_)_

### Business

#### OneDrive for Business

**Priced at**: $5 per user per month (billed annually)

**Ideal for:** Small businesses and teams that primarily need cloud storage and file-sharing capabilities

Microsoft 365 includes a dedicated plan for OneDrive, offering 1 TB of cloud storage per user and mobile apps for Android, iOS, and Windows. Additionally, it offers a web experience with over 320 file previews. OneDrive supports hundreds of file types for previewing, including images, 3-D modeling/printing, and audio/video media files. You can preview files in OneDrive without installing the application used to create the file. 

**OneDrive for Business plan features**[**\[2\]**](#footnotes)**:**

-   **File sharing:** Securely share files within and outside your organization. The software offers features, such as custom passwords and file and folder access controls, to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive files. 
-   **Version history:** Track and restore previous versions of your files. This feature is beneficial for undoing accidental changes, tracking file evolution, and restoring lost files. By keeping track of file changes, you can confidently work on your files, knowing that you can recover from errors and access previous versions whenever needed.
    
-   **Intelligent search and discovery:** Leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to quickly locate documents from across your organization's data sources, including SharePoint, Delve, and Microsoft 365 apps. You can search for documents by keywords, metadata, or content within the document.
    

_File sharing via URL in OneDrive (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/)_)_

#### Microsoft 365 Business Basic

**Priced at:** $6 per user per month, billed annually

**Ideal for:** Small businesses looking for a basic productivity suite with email and collaboration tools

Microsoft 365’s Business Basic plan includes 1 TB of cloud storage per employee, along with a custom business email and automatic spam filtering. You also get access to other Microsoft apps, such as Teams, SharePoint, and Exchange. With Microsoft Business Basic, you also get phone and web support for expert assistance whenever you need it. This plan supports up to 300 users. 

**Business Basic plan features**[**\[2\]**](#footnotes)**:**

-   **Co-author files:** Collaborate with your team members, regardless of their location or device. You can work together on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations simultaneously, making real-time edits and seeing changes reflected immediately.
    
-   **Advanced data loss prevention:** Identify, monitor, and protect sensitive information across Microsoft 365 services, such as Teams and OneDrive accounts. This feature detects sensitive items by using deep content analysis, not just a simple text scan.
    
-   **File auditing and reporting:** Monitor user activity, such as file access and modification, using the auditing and reporting capabilities offered by the tool. This helps you maintain some level of control and visibility over your data and user behavior within your organization.
    

_Co-authoring in OneDrive (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/)_)_

#### Microsoft 365 Business Standard

**Priced at:** $12.50 per user per month, billed annually

**Ideal for:** Growing businesses that need advanced security, compliance, and productivity tools

Microsoft 365’s Business Standard plan includes all features of Business Basic, along with up-to-date desktop versions of Office apps, such as Word and Excel. Other than this, this plan offers advanced security measures, such as a data retention policy and sensitive labels. You also get email hosting with a 50 GB mailbox and a custom domain name to create a professional email address for your business. This plan also supports up to 300 users and offers additional apps such as Clipchamp and Microsoft Loop.

**Business Standard plan features**[**\[2\]**](#footnotes)**:**

-   **Sensitive labels:** Classify and protect sensitive content. You can create custom labels to categorize documents and emails based on their sensitivity level, such as "Confidential" or "Highly Confidential." These labels can automatically apply security measures such as encryption and watermarking to safeguard your data. 
-   **File collaboration:** Use advanced collaboration capabilities such as mentions, comments, and tasks to collaborate on files. By leveraging these advanced collaboration features, teams can work together more effectively, improve communication, and achieve better outcomes.
    
-   **Differential sync:** Sync only parts of the changed files rather than the entire files. This feature results in faster sync speeds and improved performance, especially for large files or when syncing over slower network connections.
    

_Version history in OneDrive (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/)_)_

## Total cost of ownership

When evaluating OneDrive for your business needs, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO), including the upfront costs and any additional one-off or recurring costs. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand all potential expenses:

### Upfront costs

Upfront costs are the initial expenses incurred when purchasing or subscribing to the software, such as licensing, installation, setup, and training. Setup fees typically include customization, data migration, configuration, training, and installation charges.

OneDrive does not have any upfront costs. You typically pay a monthly or annual Microsoft 365 subscription fee to get started. However, it's important to note that the specific OneDrive pricing and plan options may vary over time. 

Microsoft offers various training resources, both online and in person, to help users learn how to use OneDrive and other Microsoft products. You can leverage these resources to understand how to use the platform effectively. Microsoft also offers experts to help you with the setup, onboarding, and deployment of the Microsoft 365 application. They can also work with you to develop custom solutions for your business.

Customers with 150 or more licenses from one of the eligible Microsoft 365 subscriptions can use FastTrack (a service provided by Microsoft to help organizations smoothly and confidently deploy and adopt Microsoft 365, Azure, and Dynamics 365) at no additional cost for the life of their subscription. Sign in to Microsoft FastTrack to request assistance and get started. Customers with fewer licenses can compare Microsoft 365 support plans or contact a product specialist to discuss available deployment resources.

### Additional costs to consider 

Data migration, staff training, hardware and IT, and maintenance and upgrades are some of the most common additional costs across different vendors. So, it’s important to include them in your budget. 

OneDrive itself doesn't have direct additional costs for data migration, staff training, and maintenance and upgrades. The software primarily operates in the cloud, so you typically don't need additional hardware.

However, it's important to note that if you're frequently uploading and downloading large files, you might incur additional data transfer costs from your internet service provider, especially if you're on a data-capped plan. Similarly, advanced security features such as data loss prevention may incur extra charges. 

In addition to these, add-ons such as AI Copilot come at an extra cost. This is not automatically included in all Microsoft 365 subscriptions. It's designed as an additional feature that users or organizations can choose to add to their existing Microsoft 365 plans. Also, if you need advanced customer support, such as access to value acceleration services or the services hub portal for support management, you might need to spend more than the actual price of the tool.

#### Services needed to implement or manage the platform

OneDrive provides extensive online documentation, tutorials, and FAQs to guide users through the setup and configuration process. You can also leverage Microsoft’s support channels, including phone, chat, and email, to address your technical issues and implementation questions.

In addition to the above, Microsoft also offers a centralized portal, known as the admin center, that helps you manage user accounts, storage quotas, sharing policies, and other administrative settings. 

#### Internal resources needed for ongoing platform management

Depending on your storage and migration requirements, you may need to have:

-   **IT professionals:** A dedicated IT manager can also help you with OneDrive administration, troubleshooting, and user support. You may also need system administrators to configure and manage OneDrive within your organization's IT infrastructure, including setting up user accounts, permissions, and security policies.
    
-   **Consultants:** You may need a cloud migration specialist to assist with migrating data from existing storage systems to OneDrive, optimizing the migration process, and minimizing downtime. Additionally, you may require security consultants to assess your organization's security needs and implement appropriate measures to protect sensitive data stored on OneDrive.
    

## How to choose the right OneDrive pricing plan

Here are some considerations you should keep in mind when choosing the best OneDrive pricing plan for your business:

_Key considerations while choosing the right OneDrive plan_

-   **Assess your business needs.** Assessing your business needs is crucial when selecting the right Microsoft 365 plan for OneDrive. Consider factors such as the number of users, required storage space, desired security features, and collaboration requirements. Evaluate whether you need basic file sharing and storage, advanced security features, or complex collaboration tools. By carefully assessing your business needs, you can choose the most suitable plan to optimize your organization's productivity and data security. Nearly 95% of small business cloud storage software reviewers on our website say secure data storage is a highly important feature of cloud storage software. About 90% also consider file sharing a critical feature[\[3\]](#footnotes). 
-   **Consider your budget.** While it's important to select a plan that meets your business needs, it's equally crucial to consider your budget. Different Microsoft 365 plans for OneDrive vary in price and feature offerings. Determine the average size of files your team typically works with and the total storage capacity required. If your business has minimal storage and collaboration needs, a basic plan such as Microsoft 365 Business Basic can be a cost-effective option. As your business grows and your needs evolve, you can upgrade to a higher-tier plan to access additional features and storage. While the initial cost of a plan is important, also consider the long-term costs, including potential upgrades and additional storage purchases.
    
-   **Compare the features of each pricing plan.** To select the right Microsoft 365 plan for your OneDrive needs it is crucial to compare the features of each pricing plan. This involves carefully examining the storage limits, collaboration features, security measures, and other functionalities offered by each plan. Also, determine whether your team requires mobile and remote access to work with files offline.  By understanding the differences between plans, you can choose the one that best aligns with your business requirements and budget.
    

## How to maximize the value of your OneDrive subscription

Maximizing the value of your OneDrive subscription involves a combination of feature utilization, team education, and strategic planning. Here are a few practical ways to get the most out of the platform:

_Ways to maximize the value of your OneDrive subscription_

-   **Utilize all the key features:** To increase productivity, make sure to explore OneDrive’s key features:
    
    -   **File sharing:** Securely share files and folders with others, controlling access and permissions.
        
    -   **Real-time collaboration:** Collaborate with others on documents simultaneously, making real-time edits and comments.
        
    -   **Version history:** Access and restore previous versions of your files, undoing mistakes or recovering lost data.
        
    -   **Mobile and offline access:** Access and edit your files on the go with OneDrive's mobile apps, even without an internet connection.
        
    
-   **Leverage customer support and learning resources:** Take advantage of Microsoft's extensive support options and resources to help you maximize OneDrive adoption:
    
    -   **Support channels:** For complex issues or personalized assistance, you can contact Microsoft support directly. This can be done through various channels, including phone, live chat, and email support.
        
    -   **Community forums:** Engage with OneDrive users and get answers to your questions in the Microsoft 365 community forums.
        
    -   **Knowledge base:** Utilize self-service resources, including articles, video tutorials, how-to guides, and FAQs, to find answers to common questions and troubleshoot issues.
        
    
-   **Additional tips for getting the most out of your plan**
    
    -   **Optimize your OneDrive experience:** Customize your OneDrive settings to manage storage space and bandwidth usage. Seamlessly integrate OneDrive with other Microsoft 365 apps such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to enhance your workflow.
        
    -   **Stay updated with the latest features:** Keep your OneDrive app and Microsoft 365 software updated to benefit from the latest features, security improvements, and bug fixes. This ensures optimal performance and helps you stay ahead of the curve.
        
    

## Is it worth paying for OneDrive?

Whether OneDrive is worth investing in depends on your business needs and budget. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

### Value for money

A top-rated cloud storage software solution, OneDrive has a value-for-money rating of 4.4 out of 5, reflecting the platform’s ability to deliver powerful features at a decent price point. 

Here are some review excerpts from verified users of OneDrive that helped us understand its value proposition relative to cost[\[1\]](#footnotes):

Rob W.Principal and BrokerInsurance2+ years

I purchased MS 365 for Word, Excel, Outlook etc and the bonus was that as a user I gained 1TB of cloud storage. This is a superb value compared to the monoline purchase of cloud storage from other providers.

October 13, 2022

Gloria V.Digital Marketing TrainerEducation Management1-2 years

This platform really help us to store files up to 5GB data without any payment which makes it easier for the storing and file sharing. Premium plans are also affordable when compared to other cloud storage platforms in the market.

October 25, 2022

Gilbert R.Post-doctoral research fellowHospital & Health Care2+ years

Effortless to use, state of the art security features, and incredibly low price. What is not to like about OneDrive? There are also desktop and browser versions making work on the go a breeze!

August 11, 2023

[Read more OneDrive reviews here](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/reviews/).

### Included features

OneDrive offers an extensive range of features designed to simplify your operations. Some of the key features offered by the tool include:

-   **File storage and sharing:** Store, access, and share files from anywhere with an internet connection.
    
-   **Real-time collaboration:** Collaborate with others on documents in real-time using features such as mentions and comments.
    
-   **Version history:** Access and restore previous versions of files. OneDrive automatically saves versions of your files whenever you make significant changes to it.
    
-   **Offline access:** Work on files offline and sync them when you're back online. OneDrive syncs your files between your device and the cloud.
    
-   **Integration with Microsoft 365 apps:** Seamlessly integrate OneDrive with other Microsoft 365 apps such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
    
-   **Advanced security:** Safeguard your files with features such as encryption, password protection, and two-factor authentication.
    
-   **Mobile and web access:** Access your files from any device with the OneDrive app or web interface.
    

### Customer support options

Here are some of the customer support options for OneDrive:

-   **Free plan**: The free OneDrive plan primarily relies on self-service resources. Users can access Microsoft's online knowledge base, FAQs, and community forums for troubleshooting and answers to common questions. Limited email support may be available for critical account issues, but direct phone support is generally not provided. Essentially, free users depend on online documentation and community assistance.
    
-   **Paid plans:** Paid OneDrive and Microsoft 365 subscribers receive a more comprehensive support experience. This includes access to online resources but also adds direct support options such as email and phone support. Depending on the plan, users may benefit from enhanced support levels, potentially including faster response times and more personalized assistance. Paid plans also allow for support requests directly through the admin centers for business accounts.
    

## Is OneDrive right for you?

### Assessing your requirements

To determine if OneDrive is the right fit for you, assess your specific requirements and compare them against what the software offers. Ask yourself the following questions:

-   **How much storage capacity do we need?** Determining your storage capacity needs is crucial when selecting the best OneDrive pricing plan. Consider factors such as the size of your files, the number of users, and your organization's growth projections. Evaluate the storage requirements for different file types, such as documents, images, and videos. Assess the amount of historical data you need to retain and the frequency of file uploads and downloads. By accurately assessing your storage needs, you can select a plan that provides adequate space without overspending.
    
-   **How often do we need to collaborate with others on documents?** Evaluating the frequency and complexity of collaboration on documents is crucial when selecting the best OneDrive pricing plan. Consider factors such as the number of team members involved, the need for offline access to folders, sharing limit, and advanced collaboration features such as version history and commenting. By assessing your collaboration needs, you can choose a plan that provides the necessary tools to enhance productivity and simplify workflows.
    
-   **Do we need to work offline and sync files later?** Determining your need for offline access is crucial when selecting the best OneDrive pricing plan. If your team frequently works in areas with limited or no internet connectivity, offline access is essential. Consider the frequency of offline work, the types of files accessed offline, and the importance of seamless syncing when reconnected to the internet. By evaluating your offline access requirements, you can choose a plan that provides the necessary features to ensure uninterrupted productivity.
    
-   **Do we need to integrate OneDrive with other tools?** Integrating OneDrive with other tools can significantly enhance its functionality and streamline workflows. Consider if you need to integrate OneDrive with other Microsoft 365 apps such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams for seamless collaboration. Additionally, assess the need for integration with third-party applications to automate tasks and improve productivity. By evaluating your integration requirements, you can choose a plan that supports the necessary integrations and maximizes the benefits of OneDrive.
    

To make the best choice, we recommend further exploring OneDrive's pricing plans and features in detail.

### Alternatives to OneDrive 

OneDrive is a highly rated cloud storage solution that has garnered an overall rating of 4.5 stars (out of 5). But how does OneDrive compare to competitors in the cloud storage space when it comes to pricing?

When considering value for money, OneDrive has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5. However, some of its competitors fare better in this category. iDrive, for example, has a value-for-money rating of 4.7, with plans that start at $2.95 per year for one user (billed annually). Google Workspace has a value-for-money rating of 4.6, with plans starting from $7 per user per month. Dropbox Business has a value-for-money rating of 4.3, with paid plans starting from $9.99 per month, billed annually. Likewise, Box has a 4.3 rating and paid prices starting from $15 per user per month (billed annually). Lastly, iCloud, which also scores 4.3, offers plans starting from $0.99 per month. 

Each of these alternatives has unique strengths:

**IDrive’s** secure login has an average rating of 4.7 from verified user reviews. This feature ensures that your data remains protected from unauthorized access via features such as two-factor authentication and IP-based login restrictions. 

**Google Workspace’s** backup and recovery capabilities have an average rating of 4.8 from verified reviewers. It automatically backs up your files and emails, allowing you to restore them in case of accidental deletion or data loss.

**DropBox Business’s** secure data storage has received an average rating of 4.9 from verified reviewers on our website. This feature ensures the security of your data with advanced features such as encryption, granular access controls, and real-time file synchronization.

**Box** has received an average rating of 4.7 for its file-sharing capabilities from our verified reviewers. This feature allows you to share files and folders with specific individuals or groups. You can set permissions to control who can access and edit shared files, ensuring data security. 

**iCloud** has received an average rating of 4.8 for mobile access functionality from our verified reviewers. With the iCloud app, you can easily access, edit, and share your documents, photos, and other files from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. 

Check out the top [OneDrive alternatives](https://www.capterra.com/p/161304/OneDrive/alternatives/), comparable to OneDrive in terms of core features, pricing, and usability.

### Cost comparison: OneDrive vs. popular alternatives

[4.6 (1200)](https://www.capterra.com/p/171884/IDrive/#reviews)

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Starting Price

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### Making the final decision

Overall, OneDrive stands out as a highly rated cloud storage software with a functionality rating of 4.4 out of 5 and an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5. Based on user reviews on Capterra, OneDrive has particularly high scores in document storage (4.7), secure data storage (4.7), document management (4.6), and automatic backup (4.5). However, it offers a value-for-money rating of 4.4 out of 5, trailing some of its competitors.

To determine if OneDrive is the right fit for your storage needs, assessing your specific requirements and comparing them with the features available in different OneDrive plans is important. While the Free plan offers a cost-effective way to start with OneDrive, it might not be sufficient for extensive storage and file-sharing needs, and you might have to upgrade to a paid plan. Consider requesting a demo, trying the free trial, and reading additional user reviews if needed.

## FAQs

Does OneDrive have any discounts?

As of now, Microsoft doesn't offer direct discounts on specific OneDrive storage plans. However, it does offer discounts on annual and monthly plans for Microsoft 365, including OneDrive. You can sign up for a one-year subscription and benefit from a discount using this payment method. Consider getting in touch with a Microsoft expert to explore purchasing options and volume discounts for large organizations (typically 250+ licenses).

How much does it cost to use OneDrive?

Microsoft includes OneDrive in all its plans. Therefore, the cost of the platform depends on the plan you choose and your specific requirements. For example, if you have basic and limited storage needs, even the Free plan would be sufficient for you.

How do I get 1TB OneDrive for free?

You can only get 1TB OneDrive storage with a Microsoft paid subscription. You can consider Microsoft’s Personal or Family plan under the Home module if you are looking at OneDrive for personal use or the Business plans if you are a business owner.

Which is cheaper: OneDrive or Google Drive?

The cost of OneDrive and Google Drive can vary based on the specific plan and storage needs. Both services offer free plans with limited storage and paid plans with varying storage options. It's best to compare the specific plans you're interested in to determine the most cost-effective option for your needs.

What is a disadvantage of using OneDrive?

Depending upon the plan you choose, OneDrive may have limitations on file size, storage capacities, and provided feature options. However, these limitations can vary depending on individual needs and usage patterns.

Which is cheaper: Dropbox or OneDrive?

While Dropbox is a standalone product, OneDrive is a part of the Microsoft 365 suite. Generally, OneDrive tends to be more affordable, especially when considering Microsoft 365 plans, which bundle OneDrive storage with other productivity tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

How do I get free unlimited storage on OneDrive?

There is no way to get unlimited OneDrive storage for free. Microsoft offers various plans with different storage limits, but none of them provide unlimited storage.

Does Microsoft 365 include OneDrive?

Yes, OneDrive is a part of Microsoft 365 plans. It provides cloud storage for your files, allowing you to access them from any device with an internet connection.

What happens if you stop paying for OneDrive?

If you stop paying for your Microsoft 365 subscription, including OneDrive, your access to premium features will be limited. You can expect a reduction in your storage limits and feature access.

How much is OneDrive per year?

The cost of OneDrive depends on the Microsoft plan that you choose. For example, if you opt for the Basic plan, it would cost you $19.99 per year. Likewise, if you go for the Personal plan, you would have to pay $69.99 per year.

#### Methodology

1.  Review excerpts are passages extracted from longer reviews written by verified reviewers. We obtain these excerpts by applying an algorithm that considers factors including, but not limited to, length, topic coverage, and thematic relevance. Excerpts are evaluated for positive or negative sentiment and receive a sentiment score. Excerpts represent user opinion and do not represent the views of, nor constitute, an endorsement by Capterra or its affiliates. Excerpts are not edited for clarity or grammar.
    
2.  Our research team identified these features from vendor websites (as of Dec. 6, 2024) based on their analysis of what users find valuable or expect from cloud storage software. This list is not exhaustive. For additional features, refer to the vendor’s website.
    
3.  To identify the key features, we asked users to rate, on a scale of “low importance” to “critical,” how important different features are for cloud storage software. The features showcased are those that the highest percentage of reviewers rated as “highly important” or “critical” over the past two years (as of Dec. 6, 2024).
    

[Shephalii Kapoor](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/skapoor/)

Shephalii Kapoor is a writer at Capterra. She helps small businesses identify the right software for their needs by analyzing user reviews for top-rated software products. Prior to Capterra, she worked as an assistant content manager at InfoEdge India Ltd. She has also worked in company law, aviation, and real estate. She is a published author and has contributed to various magazines and websites. During her free time, she enjoys reading.

[Mehar Luthra](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mehar-luthra/)

Mehar Luthra is a team lead at Capterra and specializes in editing reports that cover the latest trends affecting small businesses. With nearly a decade of experience, she has edited a multitude of research articles, top-rated software reports, and thought leadership articles for diverse markets such as Brazil, Japan, Canada, France, Australia, and India. She finds it particularly rewarding to produce content that provides small-business owners with practical tips and helpful advice on topics...

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Table of Contents

-   [Overview of OneDrive pricing](#overview-of-onedrive-pricing)
-   [Cost breakdown](#cost-breakdown)
-   [What users say about OneDrive pricing](#what-users-say-about-onedrive-pricing)
-   [Detailed breakdown of OneDrive pricing plans](#detailed-breakdown-of-onedrive-pricing-plans)
-   [Total cost of ownership](#total-cost-of-ownership)
-   [How to choose the right OneDrive pricing plan](#how-to-choose-the-right-onedrive-pricing-plan)
-   [How to maximize the value of your OneDrive subscription](#how-to-maximize-the-value-of-your-onedrive-subscription)
-   [Is it worth paying for OneDrive?](#is-it-worth-paying-for-onedrive)
-   [Is OneDrive right for you?](#is-onedrive-right-for-you)
-   [FAQs](#faqs)