Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →You can remove an app’s information from an iPhone or iPad’s iCloud backup without deleting the app: open Settings > your name > iCloud > Storage (or Manage Account Storage) > Backups, choose the device, switch off the app, and confirm Turn Off. This removes the app’s information from that device backup. If the app also stores data in iCloud Drive or another sync service, you must manage that data separately.
First check whether iCloud storage is actually full
iCloud storage and the storage built into your iPhone or iPad are separate. If the warning is about space on the device, deleting an iCloud backup item may not solve it. Check Settings > General > iPhone Storage for device capacity, or Settings > your name > iCloud for iCloud usage. Apple explains the distinction in its iPhone and iPad storage guidance.
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Know which kind of app data you are removing
An app’s data may be included in a device backup, stored as files in iCloud Drive, or handled by another app-specific cloud service. These are separate places with different consequences. Apple notes that apps using iCloud Drive store information in iCloud rather than in the device’s iCloud Backup; changing the backup setting does not delete separately synced files. See Apple’s iCloud storage management instructions and iCloud Drive guide.
| Cleanup option | What it affects | Check first |
|---|---|---|
| Turn off backup for one app | Removes that app’s information from the selected device’s iCloud Backup and stops including it in future backups. | Whether the app also syncs data separately; some apps cannot be switched off. |
| Delete iCloud Drive files or app-synced data | Removes content from that separate cloud service; synced deletions may affect other devices. | Other devices, shared access, local copies, and available recovery options. |
| Delete a device backup | Removes the selected device’s full backup and turns off iCloud Backup for that device. | Correct device, backup date, and whether another restore copy exists. |
Remove one app from an iCloud device backup
- Open Settings, tap your name, then tap iCloud.
- Tap Storage or Manage Account Storage, then Backups.
- Choose the device whose backup you want to change.
- Find the app and switch it off.
- When prompted, confirm Turn Off.
Apple says confirming this setting turns off iCloud Backup for the app and removes its information from iCloud. The change concerns the backup copy, not necessarily the app itself or data stored through a separate sync feature. Some apps are always backed up and cannot be switched off.
#1 Best Overall
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Delete app files stored in iCloud Drive
If the app’s content appears as files in iCloud Drive, use the Files app rather than the Backups screen. Open Files > Browse > iCloud Drive, locate the relevant items, and delete them. Deleting an iCloud Drive item removes it from iCloud Drive on devices signed in to the same Apple Account. In Apple’s documented workflows, deleted items may be recoverable from Recently Deleted for 30 days.
This method applies to files in iCloud Drive, not every app’s private cloud data. For data that is managed inside an app or another service, use that app’s own storage or sync controls and check what deletion will do on other devices before confirming.
Rank #2
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
Delete an entire device backup only if you no longer need it
In Settings > your name > iCloud > Storage (or Manage Account Storage) > Backups, select the device and choose Turn Off and Delete from iCloud, then confirm. This removes the complete selected backup and also turns off iCloud Backup for that device. Check the device name and backup date carefully: without that backup, it cannot serve as the restore source. Apple says backups remain available for 180 days after iCloud Backup is disabled or stopped; a backup currently being used to restore a device cannot be deleted.
If you want to keep everything, consider more iCloud capacity
Apple accounts include 5 GB of free iCloud storage, shared among items such as backups, iCloud Photos, and iCloud Drive. If preserving the data matters more than reclaiming space, iCloud+ is an optional way to add capacity; available plans and prices vary by region. Apple’s storage management page describes the options.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- High capacity in a small enclosure – The small, lightweight design offers up to 6TB* capacity, making WD Elements portable hard drives the ideal companion for consumers on the go.
- Plug-and-play expandability
- Vast capacities up to 6TB[1] to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more
- SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps)
Rank #4
- USB-C and USB 3.1 compatible.Specific uses: Business, personal
- Innovative style with refined metal cover
- Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Formatted for Mac
Rank #3
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
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