Cloud Storage vs S3-Compatible Storage
Cloud Storage vs S3-Compatible Storage: What’s the Difference?
When organisations look for modern data solutions, two terms often appear: cloud storage and S3-compatible storage. While closely related, they aren’t the same thing. Understanding the difference helps businesses choose the right storage option — and unlock the benefits of flexibility, compliance, and sustainability.
What is Cloud Storage?
Cloud storage is a service that lets you save data online instead of on local hardware or servers. It offers:
Scalability – expand or shrink storage as needed.
Accessibility – access data anytime, anywhere.
Security – built-in protections like encryption and compliance.
At its core, cloud storage is about moving data from on-premises to the cloud for improved efficiency and reduced costs.
What is S3-Compatible Storage?
S3-compatible storage is a specific type of cloud storage based on the Amazon S3 (Simple Storage Service) API. This industry-standard API has become the universal language of cloud storage, enabling applications, backup systems, and platforms to connect seamlessly.
If a product or service says it’s “S3-compatible,” it means you can plug it into your existing tools and workloads without expensive reconfiguration.
Key Differences Between Cloud Storage and S3-Compatible Storage
| Feature | Cloud Storage | S3-Compatible Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | General online data storage service | Cloud storage that uses the Amazon S3 API standard |
| Compatibility | May require custom integrations | Works with almost any tool that supports S3 (backup, AI/ML, monitoring, etc.) |
| Flexibility | Varies by provider | Universally recognised, plug-and-play |
| Use Cases | Backup, archiving, hosting, general storage | Backup, compliance, application integration, scalable workloads |
Why S3-Compatible Storage Matters for Businesses
For many organisations, S3-compatibility unlocks flexibility. Instead of being tied to one cloud provider, businesses can connect a wide range of tools to their storage — whether it’s backup software like Veeam, AI/ML workloads, or compliance archives.
It also means avoiding vendor lock-in while gaining the scalability of cloud storage.
PeaSoup’s Advantage – Secure, Sustainable, S3-Compatible Cloud Storage
At PeaSoup, we provide UK-based, S3-compatible cloud storage that’s not only fast and reliable, but also powered by liquid immersion cooling — making it the greenest storage solution in the UK.
✅ GDPR & UK compliant – your data never leaves the country
✅ Certified secure – ISO 27001 & Cyber Essentials Plus
✅ Eco-friendly – immersion cooling reduces power usage and extends hardware life
✅ Seamless integrations – full S3-compatibility for your tools and workloads
The Bottom Line
Cloud storage is the umbrella term for storing data online.
S3-compatible storage is cloud storage built on the S3 API standard — making it the most flexible and widely supported option.
For UK businesses that need security, compliance, and sustainability, PeaSoup offers both — with the added benefit of green innovation.
