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iCloud vs photo stream

So, I use iCloud photos to store all my pictures. Do I need to use Photo Stream at all? I can view all my photos on my MAC, my iPhone and my iPad.

Posted on Oct 5, 2021 12:47 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 5, 2021 1:05 PM

I only use iCloud Photos. It will sync all of your photos with iCloud and all of your devices.


See the information in About iCloud Photos and My Photo Stream - Apple Support for the differences, including the following excerpt:


iCloud Photos

  • Uses your iCloud storage.
  • As long as you have enough space in iCloud, you can store as many photos and videos as you like.
  • Stored in the original format at full-resolution.
  • You can turn on Optimize Storage and save space on your device.
  • Edits are stored in iCloud and stay up to date on your Apple devices.


My Photo Stream

  • Doesn't count against your iCloud storage.
  • Uploads your last 30 days and up to 1000 photos.
  • Downloads to your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch in a smaller resolution. On your Mac or PC, your photos download in full-resolution.
  • Edits you make won't update across your devices.


2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 5, 2021 1:05 PM in response to sljackson0303

I only use iCloud Photos. It will sync all of your photos with iCloud and all of your devices.


See the information in About iCloud Photos and My Photo Stream - Apple Support for the differences, including the following excerpt:


iCloud Photos

  • Uses your iCloud storage.
  • As long as you have enough space in iCloud, you can store as many photos and videos as you like.
  • Stored in the original format at full-resolution.
  • You can turn on Optimize Storage and save space on your device.
  • Edits are stored in iCloud and stay up to date on your Apple devices.


My Photo Stream

  • Doesn't count against your iCloud storage.
  • Uploads your last 30 days and up to 1000 photos.
  • Downloads to your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch in a smaller resolution. On your Mac or PC, your photos download in full-resolution.
  • Edits you make won't update across your devices.


iCloud vs photo stream

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