10 Best PC Backup Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 19 tools reviewed.
Data loss is a serious risk for you and your team in a digital-first workplace. Losing important files due to hardware failure, accidental deletion, or cyber threats can disrupt your workflow and cause stress. That's where PC backup software comes in handy, offering a reliable way to protect your valuable data.
I've independently tested and reviewed various software solutions to find the best options that address your specific needs. My goal is to provide you with an unbiased, well-researched list of top picks.
In this article, you'll discover the best PC backup software available. I'll break down each option's features and benefits, helping you make an informed decision for your data protection needs.
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Best PC Backup Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top PC backup software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for flexible backup storage options | Free trial + free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 2 | Best for unlimited backup to external drives | 14-day free trial | From $88/user/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for cloud-based automatic file backup | 30-day free trial | From $4.80/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 4 | Best for comprehensive disk imaging | Not available | From $4.16/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 5 | Best for virtual machine backup and replication | 30-day free trial | From $505/year | Website | |
| 6 | Best for user-friendly step-by-step wizards | Not available | From $2.50/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 7 | Best for advanced partitioning features | Not available | From $4.99/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 8 | Best for rapid disk cloning and deployment | Not available | From $6/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 9 | Best for scheduled and event-triggered backups | Not available | From $4.95/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 10 | Best for real-time data sync and backup | Not available | From $49.95/user (billed annually) | Website |
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Site24x7
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6 -
Docker
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6 -
Pulumi
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Best PC Backup Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best PC backup software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
NinjaOne is a unified endpoint management and IT management software designed for managed service providers and IT departments. It offers functions such as remote monitoring and management, endpoint management, mobile device management, patch management, and backup solutions.
Why I Picked NinjaOne: I picked NinjaOne as a good PC backup software because it gives you flexible storage options—cloud-only, local-only, or hybrid—so you can tailor backups to your needs. Its proactive alerting system keeps you updated if backups fail, letting you fix issues fast. The platform also supports automated backups, ensuring important data is consistently protected without manual effort. These features help you maintain control and visibility over your PC data protection strategy.
Standout features & integrations:
Other features include ransomware disaster recovery, which defends your data with backups that are encrypted at rest in the cloud, locally, and in transit, requiring multi-factor authentication (MFA) and confirmation for any deletion of PC backups from the cloud. NinjaOne also offers several secure restore options, such as web-based file restores, bare metal restores, and active-endpoint image restores. Some integrations include Connectwise Manage, ConnectWise ScreenConnect, CrowdStrike, HaloPSA, IT Glue, SentinelOne, Bitdefender, ServiceNow, and Zendesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive backup options, including full image and file-level backups
- Flexible storage choices with cloud, local, or hybrid solutions
- The tool offers robust remote monitoring and management capabilities
Cons:
- Setting up the tool initially can take time
- The mobile app could offer more functionalities
New Product Updates from NinjaOne
NinjaOne Launches Integrated Remote Access
NinjaOne has expanded its automated management platform by introducing NinjaOne Remote, a secure remote access solution for multiple operating systems. For more information, visit NinjaOne's official site.
CrashPlan specializes in providing robust backup solutions, with a notable capability of unlimited backups to external hard drives. Its core strength centers around the flexibility and freedom it offers users, eliminating concerns of data overage or limitations. Given its distinctive features, CrashPlan is an ideal choice for those who heavily rely on external drives and want uninterrupted backup capabilities.
Why I Picked CrashPlan: In the process of determining the right backup tool, CrashPlan stood out due to its unique unlimited backup offering for external drives. Many solutions set restrictions or limits, but CrashPlan diverges from the norm, catering to users with extensive backup needs. I chose CrashPlan because of its clear commitment to providing users with extensive, uninterrupted backup capabilities for their external storage solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
CrashPlan excels with its feature of real-time file protection, ensuring data changes are instantly mirrored in backups. Furthermore, it offers 448-bit encryption, enhancing the security of data at rest and in transit. When it comes to integrations, CrashPlan meshes well with both Windows and MacOS, ensuring a broad range of users can leverage its benefits.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Instantaneous file protection
- High-grade encryption for added security
- Unlimited backup capacity for external drives
Cons:
- Interface might be overwhelming for beginners
- Initial backup can be time-consuming
- Primarily cloud-focused, may not cater to those wanting localized solutions
Carbonite is a renowned backup solution known for safeguarding files directly to the cloud. Its prowess lies in automatically backing up critical data without user intervention, ensuring consistent protection. Given its core strengths, Carbonite stands out for users and businesses that prioritize automatic cloud-based backups.
Why I Picked Carbonite: When selecting among the sea of backup solutions, Carbonite's emphasis on automation and cloud integration caught my attention. In comparing it with other tools, it became evident that Carbonite holds a significant edge in automated cloud backups. I chose this because of its simplicity; a user can essentially set it and forget it, knowing their data is automatically secured in the cloud.
Standout features & integrations:
Carbonite excels in its continuous backup feature, which means files are saved as soon as they are changed. Additionally, its versioning capability allows users to restore previous versions of a file, providing an extra layer of data protection. Integration-wise, Carbonite supports a broad range of operating systems and integrates with popular platforms like Windows and MacOS.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad OS compatibility
- Allows retrieval of earlier file versions
- Continuous backup ensures real-time data protection
Cons:
- Some users might prefer a hybrid (local and cloud) backup solution
- Restore process can be slow for large data sets
- Lacks some advanced features offered by competitors
Acronis True Image specializes in creating detailed replicas of a computer's entire system, ensuring not a byte is missed. This meticulous approach aligns perfectly with its reputation as the top choice for comprehensive disk imaging.
Why I Picked Acronis True Image: In my search for top-tier backup solutions, Acronis True Image consistently emerged as a frontrunner. I chose this software because, upon deeper evaluation, I judged its capacity for whole-system imaging unparalleled, setting it apart from its competitors. Given this, I firmly believe it stands as the best choice for users seeking an all-encompassing backup solution.
Standout features & integrations:
Acronis True Image is distinguished by its capacity to conduct full-image backups, ensuring complete system replication. Moreover, it incorporates a robust ransomware protection mechanism, providing an additional layer of safety. As for integrations, the tool partners with prominent cloud storage providers, offering users the flexibility of cloud backups.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with leading cloud storage providers
- Robust ransomware protection
- Comprehensive full system image backups
Cons:
- Advanced functionalities may have a learning curve
- Can be complex for first-time users
- Might be excessive for users with basic backup needs
Veeam offers comprehensive solutions in the realm of data management, with a strong focus on backing up and replicating virtual machines. This makes it a valuable tool for organizations leveraging virtual environments, ensuring that virtualized data is both secure and easily recoverable. Given its expertise in this domain, Veeam stands as a leading choice for businesses that prioritize virtual machine protection.
Why I Picked Veeam: In my quest to identify top-performing backup solutions, Veeam repeatedly surfaced due to its superior capabilities in virtual machine backup and replication. It's not just about the features but also how they're tailored to cater to virtualized environments. I selected Veeam for this list because, in my judgment, its offerings are well-designed to address the challenges that businesses face in managing virtual machine data.
Standout features & integrations:
One of Veeam's prime features is the Instant VM Recovery, which drastically reduces downtime by allowing users to instantly restore any virtualized application. Additionally, it offers SureBackup, a feature that automatically tests backups to ensure they will work during recovery. As for integrations, Veeam is compatible with leading virtualization platforms, such as VMware vSphere and Microsoft Hyper-V, ensuring operation across varied infrastructures.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compatibility with major virtualization platforms
- Instant VM Recovery feature
- Specialized in virtual machine backup and replication
Cons:
- Some users might find the interface a bit complex
- Pricing could be on the higher side for smaller businesses
- Might have a steeper learning curve for new users
EaseUS Todo Backup is a revered tool for its clear-cut backup processes, ensuring no user feels overwhelmed. Its step-by-step wizards are precisely what makes it an attractive option, especially for those who may be new to the world of data backups or desire simplicity.
Why I Picked EaseUS Todo Backup: Among a myriad of backup solutions, EaseUS Todo Backup caught my attention primarily because of its unique approach to simplifying complex backup tasks. I selected this software after judging its user-friendly interface against others, determining that its wizards really are a game-changer. Thus, in my opinion, it's best for those who appreciate or require a guided experience during their backup processes.
Standout features & integrations:
EaseUS Todo Backup is renowned for its intuitive wizards that lead users through tasks like backup, restore, and cloning. Furthermore, the software offers both local and cloud backup options, catering to a variety of user needs. On the integration front, it has compatibility with popular cloud platforms such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive, allowing for diverse backup destinations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates with major cloud storage providers
- Options for both local and cloud backups
- User-friendly wizards simplify tasks
Cons:
- Limited customization options for power users
- Not the fastest backup speeds compared to competitors
- Advanced features might be hidden behind wizards for some
Paragon Backup & Recovery delivers a robust suite of tools, primarily known for its intricate partitioning capabilities. For users who prioritize detailed control over their drive's partitions while ensuring their data remains safeguarded, this software shines above the rest.
Why I Picked Paragon Backup & Recovery: In the vast landscape of backup software, selecting the right tool demands keen observation and comparison. Paragon Backup & Recovery caught my eye due to its unique emphasis on partitioning features that others often skim over. I determined, after having opinions shaped through careful juxtaposition, that for those seeking intricate partitioning capabilities combined with backup, this tool is the top contender.
Standout features & integrations:
Paragon Backup & Recovery boasts a comprehensive partitioning toolset, allowing for resizing, moving, and adjusting partitions with precision. Moreover, it offers differential and incremental backups, ensuring that users can capture every change without re-backing up the entire system. On the integration front, the software melds well with a wide range of storage solutions, from traditional hard drives to modern SSDs and hybrid drives.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compatible with a variety of storage devices
- Offers both differential and incremental backups
- Detailed partition management tools
Cons:
- Restoration process may appear convoluted to some users
- Lacks some of the cloud backup options found in competitors
- The interface can be complex for beginners
Macrium Reflect stands as a formidable force in the realm of disk cloning, with swift deployment tools at its helm. Its prowess in quickly cloning and deploying disk images makes it a go-to choice for users aiming to reduce downtime and swiftly transition systems.
Why I Picked Macrium Reflect: Sifting through countless backup utilities, I was drawn to Macrium Reflect because of its distinct emphasis on speed and efficiency. In determining the right fit, I juxtaposed Macrium Reflect against its peers, concluding its unparalleled cloning and deployment times made it stand out. For those in need of swift, reliable disk cloning and deployment, I genuinely believe this is the best choice.
Standout features & integrations:
At the core of Macrium Reflect lies its Disk Imaging technology, allowing for precise copies of entire storage volumes. The software also boasts the Macrium Image Guardian, which protects backup files from unauthorized access. In terms of integrations, Macrium Reflect works with various file systems, from NTFS to FAT32, ensuring a broad compatibility range.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports a wide range of file systems
- Protection for backup files against unauthorized changes
- Speedy disk cloning and deployment
Cons:
- Limited cloud backup options compared to competitors
- Requires a steeper learning curve compared to some alternatives
- Interface might be intimidating for new users
AOMEI Backupper is an all-inclusive software solution designed to protect data through a range of backup strategies. One distinguishing aspect of this tool is its proficiency in facilitating both scheduled backups and those activated by specific triggers, making it ideal for users who seek automatic backup solutions based on predefined conditions.
Why I Picked AOMEI Backupper: Navigating the sea of backup solutions, AOMEI Backupper captured my attention due to its unique blend of features. While most tools allow scheduled backups, the event-triggered feature was an aspect that, in my judgment, set it apart. Based on this distinguishing factor, I came to the conclusion that for those prioritizing automated backups following certain events, AOMEI Backupper is unmatched.
Standout features & integrations:
AOMEI Backupper offers a plethora of features such as system clone, file sync, and disk imaging. Beyond the scheduled and event-triggered backups, it also impresses with its universal restore capability. Integration-wise, it supports various storage environments, including local disks, external hard drives, and cloud storage platforms like Google Drive and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Features like system clone and universal restore provide added flexibility
- Supports a wide range of storage environments
- Offers both scheduled and event-triggered backups
Cons:
- Initial configuration requires a bit of a learning curve
- Larger backups can consume significant system resources
- Interface might seem overwhelming to new users
GoodSync is a versatile tool dedicated to ensuring your data is both synchronized and backed up in real-time. For businesses and individuals who are constantly updating or changing their files and need them to be in sync across devices while ensuring backup, GoodSync proves to be a robust solution.
Why I Picked GoodSync: During my analysis of various data synchronization tools, GoodSync continuously emerged as a strong contender. I chose it because it seemed to handle real-time data synchronization and backup with efficiency, distinguishing itself from other solutions. In my opinion, its capabilities are directly aligned with its USP, making it the best choice for users who need real-time data management.
Standout features & integrations:
GoodSync offers an end-to-end encryption feature, ensuring that data remains secure during transfer and storage. It also provides block-level data transfer, which increases the efficiency of syncing. Regarding integrations, GoodSync supports a broad range of platforms and cloud services, including but not limited to AWS, Google Drive, and Dropbox, catering to diverse user needs.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Block-level data transfer for efficient syncing
- Supports a wide range of platforms and cloud services
- Real-time synchronization and backup capabilities
Cons:
- The user interface might not be intuitive for everyone
- Real-time syncing could be resource-intensive on some devices
- Some users might find the initial setup a bit intricate
Other PC Backup Software
Here are some additional PC backup software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- GoodSync
For real-time data sync and backup
- NovaStor
For businesses seeking centralized backup
- Backup4all
For custom backup plugins and encryption
- FBackup
For dual backup destinations (local and cloud)
- Iperius Backup
Good for comprehensive enterprise solutions
- Retrospect
Good for multi-platform environment backups
- Duplicacy
Good for lock-free deduplication backup
- Handy Backup
Good for centralized backup management
- KLS Backup
Good for synchronizing across multiple devices
- SyncBackPro
Good for script customization and automation
PC Backup Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best PC backup software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like data security and ease of use. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Automatic backups
- File versioning
- Data encryption
- Scheduled backups
- Recovery options
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Hybrid cloud backups
- Ransomware protection
- Incremental backup options
- Customizable backup plans
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface
- Easy setup process
- Clear navigation
- User-friendly design
- Accessibility features
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to templates
- Webinars for new users
- Chatbot assistance
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Responsive live chat
- Comprehensive help center
- Phone support options
- Email response times
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Free trial availability
- Feature set vs. cost
- Discounts for long-term plans
- Transparent pricing structures
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall rating trends
- Feedback on reliability
- Ease of use comments
- Support experience
- Feature satisfaction
How to Choose PC Backup Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Consider whether the software can grow with your needs. Will it handle increased data without a price spike? Look for tiered plans that match your anticipated growth. |
| Integrations | Check if the software integrates with your existing tools such as disk cleanup software or cloud storage tools. Does it support the platforms your team uses daily? Integration can save time and reduce errors. |
| Customizability | Evaluate if the software allows adjustments to fit your specific workflows. Can you tailor backup schedules and storage options? Customizability ensures the software fits seamlessly into your operations. |
| Ease of use | Look for intuitive interfaces and straightforward navigation. Can your team learn it quickly without extensive training? A user-friendly design minimizes disruptions. |
| Implementation and onboarding | Assess the setup process and available support. Are there resources like tutorials and support teams to assist? A smooth onboarding reduces downtime and speeds up adoption. |
| Cost | Compare pricing models and total cost of ownership. Are there hidden fees or unexpected costs? Ensure the software offers value for money within your budget constraints. |
| Security safeguards | Review the data protection measures in place. Are encryption and access controls robust enough for your needs? Security is vital to protect sensitive information. |
| Compliance requirements | Ensure the software complies with industry regulations. Does it meet standards like GDPR or HIPAA? Compliance is essential to avoid legal issues and maintain trust. |
What Is PC Backup Software?
PC backup software is a tool designed to create copies of data to prevent loss due to accidental deletion, hardware failure, or cyber threats. IT professionals, data managers, and business owners typically use these tools to ensure data safety and continuity. Automatic backups, file versioning, and data encryption help with maintaining data integrity and accessibility. These tools offer peace of mind by safeguarding valuable information against unexpected events.
Features
When selecting PC backup software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Automatic backups: This feature schedules backups automatically, ensuring data is consistently saved without manual intervention.
- File versioning: Maintains multiple versions of files, allowing users to restore previous versions if needed.
- Data encryption: Protects data with encryption to prevent unauthorized access during storage and transfer.
- Scheduled backups: Let users set specific times for backups, ensuring data is saved at convenient intervals.
- Recovery options: Provides various methods to restore data, minimizing downtime in case of data loss.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Ensures the software works across different operating systems, enhancing flexibility.
- Ransomware protection: Safeguards data from ransomware attacks, adding an extra layer of security.
- Incremental backup options: Saves only changes since the last backup, reducing storage space and time.
- Customizable backup plans: Allow users to tailor backup settings to fit their specific needs and workflows.
- Cloud storage support: Offers integration with cloud services for off-site data storage and accessibility.
Benefits
Implementing PC backup software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Data protection: Automatic backups and encryption safeguard your data against loss and unauthorized access.
- Time savings: Scheduled and incremental backups reduce the time spent managing data manually.
- Quick recovery: Recovery options ensure minimal downtime by allowing fast data restoration.
- Cost efficiency: Incremental backups save storage space, reducing costs associated with large data volumes.
- Flexibility: Cross-platform compatibility allows integration with various systems, enhancing adaptability.
- Security enhancement: Ransomware protection provides an added layer of defense against cyber threats.
- Customization: Customizable backup plans let you tailor settings to match your business needs, optimizing efficiency.
Costs & Pricing
Selecting PC backup software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in SaaS backup software:
Plan Comparison Table for PC Backup Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic backup options, limited storage, and community support. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Scheduled backups, file versioning, encryption, and email support. |
| Business Plan | $20-$50/user/month | Multi-user access, cloud storage integration, ransomware protection, and phone support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Advanced security features, customization options, a dedicated account manager, and 24/7 support. |
PC Backup Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about PC backup software:
Can PC backup software back up system files?
Yes, but it depends on the software. Some tools let you create full system images, which include system files, settings, and the OS. Others only back up user files unless you select more advanced options. If you want to restore your entire PC from scratch, make sure the tool supports disk imaging or full-system backups.
Can I back up multiple PCs with one license?
Some software allows this, but others don’t. It depends on the license type—personal, family, or business. Check the vendor’s terms before installing the software on another machine. If you need to back up several PCs regularly, look for a plan that supports multiple devices.
Will the software slow down my computer?
It can, especially during large or scheduled backups. Most software runs in the background and tries to limit how much it uses system resources. Still, you might notice slowdowns during the first full backup or if you’re working on large files. Try setting backups for off-hours to avoid interruptions.
Can you back up a PC while using it?
Yes, most backup software allows you to back up your PC while using it. This feature means you don’t have to pause your work to ensure your data is protected. However, running backups during low-usage times can improve performance.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching PC backup software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.
