Backup software at Stiftung Warentest: data savers in check
In November 2013, the Stiftung Warentest examined common backup software solutions. But only two data backup tools looked good in the check, even a "poor" was awarded. We present you the test winners and compare them with the leaders in the CHIP ranking.
Test winner at Stiftung Warentest: Acronis True Image and Paragon Backup
In the product test check, only two backup tools scored "Good": The test winner was the "Acronis True Image 2013 Plus" software with an overall rating of 1.7. Second place went to Paragon's "Backup & Recovery 12 Home" software (grade 2.3). The most important information at a glance:
- Backing up and restoring your data is easiest and fastest with Acronis True Image, the testers judged. Even the complete system recovery worked without any problems with the security tool.
- Acronis software also gained additional advantages for its automatic backups, which can be stored in the cloud. You can access all files on the go via the app. Price: about 50 euros.
- The second-placed "Paragon" was particularly convincing in its handling. However, the program still lacks speed when it comes to backing up and restoring data.
- In terms of "system recovery", however, "Paragon" can catch up with the test winner. The software pays particular attention to the restoration of entire hard drives. Price: approx. 40 euros.
The test winners in a CHIP comparison
- The CHIP download charts (chargeable tools) also tops Acronis, the test winner from Stiftung Warentest, in November. In the latest version you get an additional 5 GB of free storage space in the cloud.
- "Paragon Backup & Recovery Home", on the other hand, only comes in fourth place in the CHIP ranking and has to surrender to the "O&O DiskImage Pro" and "Norton Ghost" among the top places.
- The stripped down Paragon version "Backup Recovery Free" reached number 1 in the CHIP free download charts.
"Poor": Abelssoft Backup 2013 disappointed in the (goods) test
- With an overall rating of 5.0, "Abelssoft Backup 2013" took last place in the product test ranking.
- The reason for this: The data recovery tool was unable to restore the data in the test.
CHIP test: 5 star alternatives for data recovery
Secure backups do not only succeed with the first place from Stiftung Warentest: In the CHIP test, three free tools were also able to top the backup ranking. The following backup solutions received top marks (as of Nov. 2013):
- With "Clonezilla" you create a complete backup of your hard disk and can burn it to CD. After the data is restored, you can continue working as if nothing had happened.
- If desired, "Personal Backup" compresses your data before it is saved on a USB stick, external hard drive or on the network.
- The "Cobian Backup" tool automatically backs up your data at regular intervals. The software automatically recognizes new and updated files and can also be used for the entire network.
Stiftung Warentest - the conclusion
- The complete data recovery only worked smoothly for the test winner "Acronis" and also particularly quickly. Restoration failed with other tools. Backups should also be backed up on several data carriers.
- In addition to the paid backup solutions, you can also use freeware programs for home use. Their range of functions is usually absolutely sufficient.
- All details of the November test can be found for a fee on test.de.
Tip: In our backup Bible you will find the little ABC of data recovery with tips and tricks for reading.