Comparing ways to keep photos private

There is no single right way to keep a photo private. The built-in Hidden album, a vault with automatic cloud backup, a calculator-style disguise and a local-only vault each protect against different things and fail in different ways. These pages set out the trade-offs so you can choose.

Four comparisons

How we compare

We describe behaviours, not brands. Every claim about iOS is checked against Apple's documentation on the date shown at the top of the page. Where StrongRoom is weaker we say so first. We do not use other apps' names, logos, ratings or prices.

Who StrongRoom is not for

If you want automatic cloud backup, use the same vault on an iPad or a second phone, or need an app that disguises itself, a different kind of app will suit you better. StrongRoom is for people who want nothing to leave the phone and are willing to make their own Export Package.

All pages in this section

• Disguise or encryption?A calculator icon hides the app, not the files. What disguise apps do, what encryption does, and why StrongRoom does not pretend to be another app.
• Local-only or cloud-backup vault?A vault with automatic cloud backup protects against a lost phone. A local-only vault leaves no off-device copy. The trade-offs, and who each suits.
• Ten questions to ask any photo vault appA checklist for choosing a private photo vault: encryption, accounts, backups, analytics, recovery, limits. With StrongRoom's own answers.
• Hidden album or vault app?The iPhone Hidden album hides photos behind your device lock. A vault app encrypts them separately. A fair comparison, and when the album is enough.

Frequently asked questions