iCloud and Finder backups sound interchangeable but they aren't — each captures different things, restores in different ways, and has different failure modes. This honest comparison covers what each backup type contains, how large they are, where they're stored, and which one to rely on for which recovery scenario.
Key Topics Covered
iCloud backup: what's included and excluded by default
Finder backup: the full encrypted local backup Apple recommends
Size difference: iCloud (filtered) vs Finder (full device image)
Restore process: iCloud requires internet, Finder is local
Finder encrypted backup: critical importance of the password
When each backup type saves you vs leaves you stranded