Top Windows 10 File Backup Tools: Best 3 Choices to Protect Data

This article will explore various Windows 10 file backup tools, covering both built-in features and third-party options to give you the flexibility you need. From understanding the backup process to choosing between cloud-based or local backups, we’ll walk you through the essential steps.

Sebastian

By Sebastian Updated on November 22, 2024

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3 Best File Backup Software for Windows 10

In this article, we will provide three feasible methods for creating file backups in Windows 10. Two options are Windows 10's built-in backup tools. We will also provide you with another free third-party backup software to help you achieve this.

The Manual Backup - Windows 10 built-in file backup tools

File History exclusively archives duplicates of files located within designated directories such as Documents, Pictures, Music, Videos, and Desktop.

Backup and Restore facilitates the creation of backups encompassing files, folders, and system images.

The Automatic Backup - Third-party free Windows backup software

AOMEI Backupper Standard provides essential backup and restore functionalities for users seeking a reliable and user-friendly solution.

Built-in backup Tools V.S. Backup Software

Windows Built-in Backup Tools

Pros:

Cons:

Pre-installed with Windows OS.

Basic backup functionalities included.

No additional cost.

Limited functionality compared to third-party software.

Lack of advanced features and customization options.

May not provide optimal performance or reliability.

Third-party Backup Software

Pros:

Cons:

The comprehensive range of features beyond basic backup.

Enhanced flexibility and customization options.

Often offer better performance and reliability.

Typically requires separate installation.

May incur additional costs for advanced features.

Some users may find third-party interfaces less intuitive.

As you can see from the table above, there are two different backup methods, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Based on this table, user can make informed decisions based on their specific backup needs.

Tool 1: Free Windows 10 File Backup Tool (Recommend)

AOMEI Backupper Standard is a free and reliable backup tool that helps protect your important files and system data. With its easy-to-use interface and powerful features, AOMEI Backupper allows you to create backups of your files on Windows 10. Whether you need to secure important documents, personal photos, or system settings, this software offers a dependable way to keep your data safe.

AOMEI Backupper
Top Windows 10 File Backup Software
  • Flexible Backup Options: AOMEI Backupper offers more than just file backups. It also supports system, disk, and partition backups, plus the ability to back up files to AOMEI Cloud.

  • Supports Multiple Storage Devices: You can back up your data to any storage device, including HDDs, SSDs, and external hard drives. This ensures your files are always protected, no matter where you store them.

  • Wide Compatibility: AOMEI Backupper works smoothly with various Windows versions, from Windows 11 to older versions like XP and Vista, making it compatible across many platforms.

How to Backup Files in Windows 10

AOMEI Backupper makes it easy to back up a variety of file types, such as documents, photos, and music. You can also choose specific folders to back up, based on what you need.

1: Open AOMEI Backupper and go to the Backup menu. Select "File Backup."

File Backup

2: Click "Add Folder" or "Add File" to choose what you want to back up.

Add File/Folder

3: Select where you want to store the backup, whether it's on your computer, in the cloud, or on a shared drive or NAS device.

Choose Destination

4: Click "Start Backup" to begin the process.

Start Backup

Note:
Options: You can adjust settings like file compression, splitting, and email alerts.
Schedule Backup: Set up automatic backups on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, or trigger backups based on events or USB connections.​​​​​​​
Backup Scheme: Choose how backups are performed and set retention rules to automatically delete old backups (available in the professional edition).

Tool 2: Windows File History

Windows File History is a built-in tool in Windows 10 that helps you back up your files and folders automatically. It saves different versions of your files over time, so you can easily restore previous versions if something goes wrong. This is especially helpful for users who work on important documents or projects and want protection against accidental changes or deletions.

However, it has some limitations. It might not back up all specified files, and it's not available on versions of Windows earlier than Windows 8. So, make sure to check your system version before using this feature.

Here is how to make file backups with Windows File History:

1. Following Settings >> Update & Security >> Backup.

2. Click on Add a drive and choose a saving path.

File History

3. Toggle Automatically back up my files to On.

Tool 3: Windows Backup and Restore

Windows Backup and Restore is a built-in tool from Microsoft that helps you back up your files, folders, and system settings. It provides an easy way to create backups of important data, so you can recover everything if your system crashes or files are lost. This tool is particularly useful if you accidentally delete important files, face hardware problems, or need to fix software issues by restoring your system to a previous state.

1. Type Backup and Restore in the Windows search bar and open it.

2. Click on Set up backup and choose your backup drive.

Set Up Backup

3. Select Let Me Choose and click Next.

4. Choose the files and folders you want to back up.

5. Click Next and then Save settings and run backup.

FAQs

Q: How often should I back up my files?

A: It's recommended to back up your files regularly, depending on your usage and the importance of your data. Weekly or monthly backups are common for most users.

Q: Is AOMEI Backupper compatible with Windows 11?

A: Yes, AOMEI Backupper is compatible with Windows 11, as well as older versions like Windows 10, 8, and 7.

Q: Can I schedule automatic backups with AOMEI Backupper Professional?

A: Yes, AOMEI Backupper Professional allows you to schedule automatic backups at specified intervals, ensuring your files are backed up regularly without manual intervention.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Windows 10 file backup tool is essential to ensuring the safety of your data. Whether you opt for Windows’ built-in solutions or third-party tools like AOMEI Backupper, regularly backing up your files is the best way to protect against data loss. By following the solutions provided in this article. You can even use it to back up Windows 10 to DVD if needed, come on and give it a go.

Sebastian
Sebastian · Editor
Sebastian, a professional editor at AOMEI, brings personal product experience and a user-focused mindset to solve data protection issues. With valuable technical insights and a dedication to user experience, he simplifies complex concepts and provides reliable solutions. Sebastian's expertise and skills make him an invaluable resource for readers seeking technical guidance.