When choosing the right cloud storage solution, it’s best to understand the basic storage types, so the decision becomes much easier. In this guide, you will learn where object storage and block storage work best and how to evaluate cloud storage pricing without surprises.
Step 1: Know Your Cloud Storage Options
First, you need to understand the main categories of cloud storage. Most solutions fit into one of three groups.
- Object storage for scalable, unstructured data.
- Block storage for high-performance applications and databases.
- File storage for collaboration tools and shared folders.
File storage is common in team drives and shared office environments. However, when you host your own private or business cloud, object storage and block storage matter most. Therefore, we will focus on those two options in this guide.
Step 2: Use Object Storage for Scale
Object storage works best for data that grows quickly and does not change constantly. For example, you can store media libraries, website backups, log archives, or large collections of static files.
Instead of acting like a regular hard drive, object storage uses web APIs for access. This makes it ideal for developers, backup systems, and file -sharing
platforms. It scales almost effortlessly as your data grows.
With Contabo Object Storage, you only pay for the space you actually use. This way you avoid complex and unpredictable pricing structures and keep your storage bill transparent.
Use object storage if:
- You store backups, media, or long-term archives.
- You need highly scalable storage.
- You prefer a simple “pay for what you use” model.
Step 3: Choose Block Storage for Performance
Block storage focuses on speed and low latency. You can imagine it as attaching a high-performance hard drive to your cloud server.
You mount block storage like a physical disc inside your virtual machine. Then your operating system can use it directly for file systems, databases, or application data. Because of this design, block storage is ideal for workloads that need fast and predictable performance.
Every Contabo VPS includes block storage by default. As your project grows, you can upgrade and extend this storage when needed.
Use block storage if:
- You run virtual machines and operating systems.
- You host custom applications or application stacks.
- You manage high-performance databases that need low latency.
Step 4: Compare Cloud Storage Pricing Carefully
Next, you should look beyond just the headline price. Cloud storage pricing often includes several layers that affect your final bill.
Key factors to watch:
- Cost per GB of stored data.
- Data transfer and egress fees for outgoing traffic or downloads.
- API call costs for read, write, and list operations.
Some public cloud providers advertise very low storage prices. However, they may charge extra for downloads, requests, and even API calls. Over time, these hidden charges can add up significantly.
Contabo focuses on flat, predictable pricing with no hidden fees. You also get generous traffic included, which helps you keep costs under control.
Which Cloud Storage Solution Should You Choose
To summarize the decision making process:
- Choose object storage when you manage a growing library of files, backups, or media.
- Choose block storage when you need raw speed for virtual machines, applications, or databases.
- Always evaluate cloud storage pricing beyond storage size and check for extra traffic or API fees.
This way, you match the storage type to your workload and avoid unpleasant billing surprises.
Watch Our YouTube Video on Choosing the Right Storage Type
If you prefer a visual presentation of how to choose the right cloud storage option, we have a YouTube video ready for you.
Final Thoughts
The right cloud storage solution depends on your data, your performance needs, and your budget. Object storage gives you scalable space for files and backups, while block storage powers fast applications and databases. Whether you are building your first cloud server or scaling an existing setup, Contabo provides flexible storage options at a fair price.