pCloud is one of the best Swiss cloud storage services, standing out with its “lifetime” offer for a one-time payment. Through this test, discover its various features, strengths and weaknesses, as well as the different pricing plans of this service.
Founded in 2013, pCloud distinguishes itself with a focus on security, flexibility, and accessibility. For the most demanding users, this provider offers an advanced encryption module: pCloud Crypto. With high transfer speeds, an intuitive interface, and cross-platform compatibility, pCloud proves to be a serious alternative to the giants in the industry.
The only cloud storage service with a lifetime subscription in 2025
Verdict
After testing pCloud in real conditions, we were pleasantly surprised by the overall quality of the service. However, what impressed us the most was the security offered by pCloud Crypto. Indeed, the zero-knowledge encryption is genuinely reassuring, especially in a context where privacy is becoming a priority. We also appreciated being able to choose where to host files between Europe and the United States.
Lastly, transfer speeds are fast, synchronization is stable, and the lifetime offer remains an excellent compromise for those who want a reliable service without monthly subscriptions. In summary, pCloud checks all the boxes for a serious, modern cloud storage solution that respects its users.
Methodology Adopted for This Test
To conduct this test of pCloud, we first subscribed to the “Premium Plus” plan to benefit from 2 TB of storage. We then configured pCloud Drive on different operating systems to check compatibility and synchronization fluidity.
Subsequently, we tested security, particularly the zero-knowledge encryption with pCloud Crypto. File sharing was also evaluated through both the web interface and the mobile application, allowing us to assess collaboration fluidity with other users. We also utilized the “rewind” function to restore previous versions of files.
Finally, we compared upload and download speeds with other online storage services to measure performance. All these steps allowed us to provide a comprehensive and precise opinion on pCloud, considering its strengths and limitations.
pCloud: What Are Its Different Features?
Unlike many competitors, pCloud allows its users to store, synchronize, and share their files through secure remote servers while offering a seamless experience across all devices.
Cross-Platform Synchronization
The pCloud Drive feature allows you to synchronize a local folder from your computer or smartphone with the cloud. All files (documents, photos, videos, music, etc.) placed in this folder become accessible online from any connected device. This synchronization happens in real-time and without local duplication, allowing you to save disk space.
Data Security
Files are encrypted during transfer via the TLS/SSL protocol, and stored with 256-bit AES. To ensure data resilience, each file is copied five times across different servers. For maximum protection, the pCloud Crypto option enables client-side encryption—only the user holds the key.
Advanced File Sharing
pCloud facilitates collaboration with configurable sharing options:
- Share folders with other users
- Generate custom download or upload links
- Password protection and expiration dates
These functions are ideal for sensitive or temporary documents, whether for personal or professional use.
Transfer Feature
The pCloud Transfer function allows users to send files up to 2 GB without an account, or up to 10 GB with a free account. No installation is required, making it a practical and quick tool for sharing large files on occasion.
Rewind Feature and Versioning
The Rewind feature allows you to restore previous states of files and folders:
- Up to 15 days of recovery for free accounts
- Up to 30 days for Premium and Premium Plus plans
- Extension to 1 year available as a paid option
File versioning also allows the restoration of a specific file to a previous version. These features are valuable in cases of accidental deletion, corruption, or ransomware attacks.
Extensions and Integrations
pCloud offers several tools to enrich your daily use:
- Thunderbird extension: to attach large files to your emails without limits, via download links
- pCloud Save (Chrome, Firefox, Opera): to save images, videos, or web documents with one click
- Adobe Lightroom plugin: to export your edited photos directly to pCloud
New Features in pCloud: Latest Updates in 2025
In 2025, pCloud continues to evolve to provide a cloud storage experience that is even more efficient, secure, and intuitive. Among the major updates, there is a strengthening of security with even more robust client-side encryption. This encryption is certified compliant with ISO 27001 standards and GDPR regulations, which is particularly reassuring for users concerned about the privacy of their data.
Functionally, pCloud Drive, its innovative virtual disk, reaffirms its position as a reference by allowing access to files without taking up local space. This is ideal for users who want to save storage on their computer or smartphone.
On the mobile app side, the Android version has been optimized with practical new features, such as drag-and-drop between pCloud and other apps, a modernized interface, and improved support for scans in the Crypto space. This enhances the fluidity of managing secured files on the go.
For macOS users, pCloud has also introduced a more ergonomic interface, with a new share button in the system tray. In addition, it offers better file exclusion management and a specific optimization for Macs equipped with Apple Silicon.
Finally, the “Extended History” function has seen its archiving duration extended to 360 days as an option, a true advantage for restoring deleted or impacted files in a ransomware attack.
These improvements make pCloud a Swiss cloud solution that is increasingly suited to modern needs. The tool combines advanced security, multi-platform compatibility, and optimal performance for both individuals and professionals.
pCloud Crypto: What Is It?
The Swiss company takes the security of its users’ files very seriously. Crypto is one of the services offered separately by pCloud. It allows users to create an ultra-secure encrypted folder to protect their most confidential files. Stored on the provider’s servers, this folder can be accessed from a PC, smartphone, or the provider’s web client.
Through client-side encryption, only the user can access the data hidden in the Crypto folder using their Crypto Pass key. No one else, not even the provider or authorities, can access the folder.
To demonstrate the security level of its Crypto service, pCloud has challenged hackers worldwide. The goal is to bypass its encryption system. Out of 2,860 participants, no one succeeded in claiming the big reward, even after six months of attempts.
The user’s private keys are encrypted with the industry standard RSA 4096 bits. Additionally, the keys per file and folder are encrypted with AES 256 bits. Moreover, the authentication process relies on the Merkle tree method, similar to that used by the core of the Bitcoin protocol.
pCloud: Multi-Platform
One of the great advantages of pCloud lies in its cross-platform compatibility. Accessible directly from any browser via my.pcloud.com, the web version allows users to manage files, shares, and backups through a clear and intuitive interface. Additionally, the pCloud Drive application functions as a virtual disk compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
On mobile and tablet, the dedicated app for iOS and Android provides access to all your content with practical options.
Offline Mode
pCloud also has an offline mode, allowing users to access certain data using a PC, tablet, or smartphone, even without a connection. This is a handy function for watching movies or listening to podcasts during a flight.
Customer Support
To provide a complete test of the pCloud storage system, it’s important to address the quality of its customer service. In case of difficulties or questions, the pCloud team can be contacted via support@pcloud.com or the contact form.
This support is accessible in German, English, Turkish, and of course French. The response time is 2 to 3 days at most.
pCloud: Backup
It is also possible to back up content from Google Drive, Facebook, OneDrive, or Dropbox to pCloud. To do this, go to the “Backups” section and click on the “Third-party” tab.
To initiate integration, simply click on “Start”. This is an effective way to centralize files in one location.
Regarding backups, pCloud has added a smart function to its desktop application that allows for backing up files on PCs. Users only need to select downloads, documents, images, or music folders to be saved. Data will be recorded for one year, while synchronization will occur automatically.
Technical Test: Performance That Meets Expectations
We put pCloud to the test under real usage conditions, both on fiber and 4G networks. The user experience was particularly fluid, fast, and stable, even when handling large files. Sending a 1 GB file takes only 32 seconds on fiber and around 70 seconds on mobile network—an excellent score. Downloading, on the other hand, takes only 24 seconds, demonstrating good server optimization.
What impressed us most was the almost instantaneous access to files shared via links, with less than a second of latency. In telecommuting or distance collaboration, this responsiveness clearly makes a difference. In terms of security, encrypting a 500 MB folder with pCloud Crypto takes less than 10 seconds, ensuring robust protection without compromising speed.
Another strong point is the redundancy of files, copied five times across servers located in Europe and the United States. Lastly, multi-device synchronization is ultra-responsive, with changes visible in less than 10 seconds on all connected devices. In short, pCloud lives up to its promises.
pCloud: Advantages and Disadvantages
During our test, we were impressed by pCloud due to its numerous advantages. Firstly, it is an affordable service, especially thanks to its lifetime offer, which is unique in the market. File synchronization is performed quickly.
pCloud emphasizes security by offering two-factor authentication and file encryption during transfers. This is even more true with the Crypto service, which guarantees a “zero-knowledge” client-side encryption that is impossible to bypass. We regret that this optional service is not included in the premium offer.
Additionally, in light of the closure of the French cloud service Hubic by OVH, pCloud stands out as a strong European alternative to American cloud giants. Particularly to Google and Amazon. For users looking for a service compliant with GDPR regulations, this Swiss solution is highly recommended. Finally, aside from the inability to edit documents directly from the cloud, we did not find any significant drawbacks to pCloud.
pCloud: Pricing
In 2025, pCloud offers a flexible pricing structure that caters to all user profiles. You can choose between monthly, annual subscriptions, or lifetime plans, ideal for avoiding recurring payments.
Monthly and Annual Subscriptions
The Premium 500 GB plan offers 500 GB of storage for €4.99 per month or €49.99 per year. It is aimed at users with basic storage and file sharing needs.
The Premium Plus 2 TB plan provides access to 2 TB of space for €9.99 per month or €99.99 per year. This plan is perfect for families, freelancers, or users with larger file volumes.
The Ultra 10 TB plan, targeted at content creation professionals, videographers, or businesses, offers 10 TB of storage for €19.99 per month or €199.99 per year. It provides a powerful solution without long-term commitment.
What is the price of pCloud for life?
In 2025, pCloud offers a lifetime subscription starting at €199 for 500 GB, €399 for 2 TB, and €1,190 for 10 TB. This is an economical option for those who want to avoid monthly fees.
pCloud Crypto Option
To enhance data security, pCloud offers the pCloud Crypto option. This feature provides client-side encryption, ensuring that only the user can access their encrypted files.
This option is available for €4.99 per month, €47.88 per year, or through a one-time payment of €125 for a lifetime.
pCloud Compared to Alternatives
pCloud positions itself as a robust cloud storage service, offering solid features and a smooth user experience. However, in response to growing demand for sustainable digital services, it maintains a more discreet stance than some of its rivals. Unlike players like Infomaniak or Cozy Cloud, pCloud does not explicitly communicate a sustainability policy or carbon neutrality. This doesn’t mean it lacks any environmental consideration.
pCloud indeed offers data hosting in Luxembourg, a country with strict European standards for energy efficiency. Furthermore, its pCloud Drive technology allows access to files online without occupying local disk space, which reduces physical hardware usage and associated energy consumption. Another distinctive feature is its unique lifetime payment model, which limits monthly subscriptions and encourages more sustainable consumption.
In contrast, Infomaniak stands out with a clear commitment: powering its servers with renewable energy, full carbon compensation, and transparency in its environmental policy. Cozy Cloud, on the other hand, focuses on digital sobriety with a decentralized architecture, open-source ethics, and a local presence in France.
Thus, pCloud appears as an intermediate solution: efficient, reliable, but still somewhat shy about openly displayed ecological commitments. For users sensitive to these issues, more proactive European alternatives deserve consideration.
pCloud Review: Our Verdict
The only cloud storage service with a lifetime subscription in 2025
Verdict
After testing pCloud under real conditions, we were pleasantly surprised by the overall quality of the service. However, what impressed us the most was the security offered by pCloud Crypto. The zero-knowledge encryption genuinely inspires trust, especially in a context where privacy is becoming a priority. We also appreciated the ability to choose file hosting between Europe and the United States.
Finally, transfer speeds are fast, synchronization is stable, and the lifetime offer remains an excellent compromise for those who want a reliable service without monthly subscriptions. In summary, pCloud ticks all the boxes for a serious, modern cloud storage solution that respects its users.
FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About pCloud
Yes. pCloud offers client-side encryption through its feature “pCloud Crypto”. This function guarantees that only you have access to your files, even pCloud teams cannot access them.
Yes. pCloud offers a free plan with 10 GB of storage. Paid options allow you to increase this space, including through a lifetime one-time payment.
pCloud stands out primarily due to its optional zero-knowledge encryption, lifetime plans, and its virtual drive which saves local space. Dropbox, on the other hand, excels in fast synchronization but does not offer client-side encryption.
Yes. It is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It also features a high-performance web interface.
Absolutely. pCloud allows you to store and stream multimedia files, including videos and music, directly from the app or the web.
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2025-10-08
