Cloud Backup Comparison: Google Cloud Storage vs. AWS S3 Glacier
Welcome, fellow cloud enthusiasts! Today, we are going to compare two major cloud backup services: Google Cloud Storage and Amazon Web Services' S3 Glacier. We will be providing an unbiased factual comparison written by our Flare Compare Team, so get ready for some serious cloud talk.
Google Cloud Storage
Google Cloud Storage is a popular backup solution for enterprises and personal use since its launch in 2010. It offers scalable storage options, automatic syncing, and is highly secure with ISO 27001 certification for data protection. GC Storage is easily integrable with other Google Cloud products such as Google Compute Engine and App Engine.
Features
Some notable features of Google Cloud Storage include:
- Multiple storage classes (Standard, Nearline, Coldline)
- Integration with Google Cloud ecosystem
- Automatic data synchronization
- Strong encryption using AES-256
Pricing
Google Cloud Storage offers a pay-as-you-go model, which means you only pay for what you use. Below is a comparison of their pricing:
| Storage Class | Monthly cost per GB |
|---|---|
| Standard | $0.02 |
| Nearline | $0.01 |
| Coldline | $0.004 |
AWS S3 Glacier
Amazon S3 Glacier, launched in 2012, is designed for long-term data archiving and backup. While it is not suitable for frequent access or retrieval of stored data, it provides high durability, low-cost storage, and scalability.
Features
Some notable features of AWS S3 Glacier include:
- Cost-effective storage for archiving and backup
- Integration with other AWS services
- Full lifecycle management
- Multiple retrieval options for stored data
Pricing
AWS S3 Glacier also offers a pay-as-you-go model, with pricing starting at $0.004 per GB per month. Below is a comparison of their pricing:
| Retrieval | Cost per GB retrieved |
|---|---|
| Expedited (1-5 min) | $0.03 |
| Standard (3-5 hours) | $0.01 |
| Bulk (5-12 hours) | $0.0025 |
Comparison
| Metrics | Google Cloud Storage | AWS S3 Glacier |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | 99.999999% | 99.999999999% |
| Integration with other services | Yes | Yes |
| Data encryption | AES-256 | AES-256 |
| Cost per GB per month (Coldline) | $0.004 | $0.004 |
| Retrieval Time (Expedited) | N/A | $0.03 |
| Retrieval Time (Standard) | N/A | $0.01 |
| Retrieval Time (Bulk) | N/A | $0.0025 |
Conclusion
After comparing Google Cloud Storage and AWS S3 Glacier, it is clear that both services have their respective strengths and weaknesses. While Google Cloud Storage is a great option for frequent access and synchronization of data, AWS S3 Glacier's retrieval options make it a viable and cost-effective option for data archiving and long-term backup.
Ultimately, the choice between the two cloud backup services depends on your specific needs as the user. Take your time, read all the documentation, and choose the one that aligns with your priorities.