Apple's iCloud has offered just 5GB of free storage since 2011, an amount that fills up quickly given modern devices routinely store photos, backups, messages and documents in the cloud. This has left many users weighing whether to pay for extra iCloud+ storage, with Apple providing a range of paid tiers to suit different needs, from casual users to those working with large media files across multiple devices.

Apple's two main entry-level iCloud+ plans are 50GB for $0.99 a month, suited to syncing contacts, messages and documents, and 200GB for $2.99 a month, which most subscribers choose and better suits large photo and video libraries. Heavier users, such as those shooting RAW photos or 4K video, can opt for 2TB, 6TB or 12TB plans. Paying for iCloud+ also unlocks extras including Private Relay, Hide My Email and HomeKit Secure Video, while Apple One bundles combine iCloud+ storage with services like Apple Music and Apple TV; the right choice ultimately depends on how many Apple services someone uses and their budget.