Our verdict: OneDrive is the path of least resistance on Windows: it is already installed, integrates with File Explorer and Office, and can back up your Desktop, Documents and Pictures. The free 5 GB fills up fast, though, and Windows pushes folder backup hard, so set it up deliberately rather than clicking through.
About Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive syncs a folder in File Explorer with your Microsoft account. Files On-Demand keeps files online until you open them, PC folder backup can protect your Desktop, Documents and Pictures folders, and Office apps save and co-author directly in OneDrive. Personal Vault adds an extra verification step for sensitive files.
Every Microsoft account includes 5 GB of free OneDrive storage. Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions include 1 TB per person, and there is a cheaper storage-only plan. The OneDrive app ships with Windows 10 and 11; this installer reinstalls or updates it.
What it does well
- File Explorer integration. OneDrive appears as a folder with sync status icons in File Explorer.
- Files On-Demand. Keep files online-only and download them when you open them.
- PC folder backup. Back up Desktop, Documents and Pictures to the cloud automatically.
- Office co-authoring. Edit Word, Excel and PowerPoint files with others in real time.
- Personal Vault. A protected folder that needs extra verification to open.
Who it is for
Good fit
Windows and Microsoft Office users who want sync that works without installing anything extra.
Look elsewhere
Anyone who needs more than 5 GB for free or wants end-to-end encrypted storage.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Preinstalled and deeply integrated with Windows
- Files On-Demand saves disk space
- Works well with Microsoft Office
Cons
- Only 5 GB of free storage
- Windows pushes folder backup aggressively
- Files are not end-to-end encrypted
How to install Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive is already part of Windows 10 and 11; use this installer only if it was removed or does not update. During sign-in Windows offers to back up your Desktop, Documents and Pictures to OneDrive. Decline it if you do not want those folders moved into the cloud, because 5 GB fills quickly.
Questions about Microsoft OneDrive
Is OneDrive free?
Yes. Every Microsoft account gets 5 GB of free OneDrive storage. Microsoft 365 subscriptions include 1 TB per person.
Do I need to install OneDrive on Windows 11?
Usually not. It comes with Windows 10 and 11; the installer is for reinstalling or repairing it.
How do I stop OneDrive from backing up my Desktop?
Open OneDrive settings, go to Sync and back up, choose Manage back up and turn off the folders you do not want backed up.
