Backblaze Review
Backblaze claims their service is cloud storage made easy. In fact, all across the web you will see various reviews about Backblaze saying “they’re all easy,” “simple” and “extremely user friendly.” While this is one of the most important aspects for a cloud storage provider, there are many other traits to look at when choosing a service, such as features, customer support and of course security. What about cloud storage space – do they offer unlimited storage space? Furthermore, is Backblaze really the king of user friendliness? Yet with all of these questions, we had not seen one in depth review on Backblaze. Finally, we have answered all of those questions, in detail, below.
Features
One thing you rarely hear about is Backblaze’s list of features. We were baffled by this since Backblaze is clearly one of the best cloud storage services you can find. Backblaze does not offer a few features, such as file sharing or synching, but other than that, everything you can possible need is covered in their features, even for IT professionals. Additionally, the unlimited cloud storage they offer is truly unlimited. No asterisks or hidden fees. Below we have outlined Backblaze’s main list of features:
- Unlimited cloud storage space
- Unlimited file size – no limitation
- Automatic, scheduled and/or selective backups
- File versioning/recovery
- Multiple restore options
- Personal encryption key
- Bandwidth throttle (control)
- Web access
- External backup option
- Supports: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Ease of Use
We have yet to see one negative comment regarding Backblaze’s ease of use. Could it be that they are so different from the competition that it is deserves that much credit? The short answer is an astounding yes. The long answer is mainly a yes. Everything from the installation process to storing your files in the cloud is a breeze. With Backblaze, everything has been set up to be as automated as possible. The restore functionality takes a bit of time but it is certainly easy to use. Moreover, the initial backup process is faster than other cloud storage services we have tried. The dashboard is extremely easy to navigate and the web access dashboard is, by far, the easiest web dashboard we have used.
Backblaze Backup Process
Pricing
Backblaze has made it a priority to offer a world class service at near unbeatable prices. Additionally, they don’t employ hidden tactics or too many options. All pricing information is very straightforward. If you are an individual, there are three payment options. All plans come with unlimited cloud storage. You can pay $5/month on a monthly basis, however if you are looking to save money over the long run, you can pay $4.17/month for an annual plan ($50 for the year) or $3.96/month for a two year plan ($95 total). The business plan is also one of the best business plans we have seen. $50 for the year will get you unlimited cloud storage per computer.
Security
Backblaze’s security matches with some of the industry’s best cloud storage providers. They offer 128-bit encryption pre and post transfer. You will never have to worry about your data being accessible during the transfer process. If you’d like, you can request a personal encryption key as well for added security.
Customer Support
If there is one area Backblaze does not need to improve on, it is their customer support channels. Their actual support is stellar. Not only do their reps respond in a timely manner but we found them to be more knowledgeable than most other reps across other service providers. That said, Backblaze offers an email ticket system in which you can expect a reply within 24 hours at the most (generally 4-8 hours). They also provide a nice knowledgebase, how to guides and an FAQ section. The overwhelming majority of people will not even need to email in to support as the latter three options are very useful.
Summary
Many people looking for a cloud storage solution are hesitant to purchase a plan due to fears that it will be difficult to use. Backblaze is certainly a service that has helped alleviate these fears and even downright eliminated them. In fact, Backblaze is known as one of the largest initial storage companies. But, due to competition over the years, they have decreased in popularity. However, they are still the leaders in ease of use. Moreover, they have a nice selection of features at unbeatable prices.
