Quick Answer: Yes. Starting in late 2025, Snapchat will charge for Memories storage beyond 5GB. Every user still gets 5GB free, but if you exceed that, you’ll need a paid plan:
- 100GB for $1.99/month
- 250GB (with Snapchat+) for $3.99/month
- 5TB (with Snapchat Platinum) for $15.99/month
If you’re already over the limit, Snapchat gives you a 12-month grace period to download your content or upgrade.
Snapchat’s new storage policy may feel frustrating, but with the right steps, you can protect your memories without spending unnecessarily. Let’s break it down clearly.
What Changed With Snapchat Memories?
Until now, Snapchat offered unlimited free storage for Memories, a feature that launched in 2016 to save Snaps and Stories permanently. In September 2025, Snapchat announced a major shift:
- Free users now get 5GB only.
- Beyond 5GB, you must pay for more space.
- Users over the limit get 12 months of temporary storage before newer content risks deletion.
This marks the end of the unlimited era and puts Snapchat in line with services like Google Photos and iCloud that already charge for storage.
What Exactly Are Snapchat Memories?
For beginners, Snapchat Memories are:
- A personal archive of Snaps and Stories saved on Snapchat’s cloud.
- Accessible anytime, across devices.
- Features include search by date/friend/content, My Eyes Only (private vault), and editing/resharing tools.
For years, this storage was free and unlimited—now it’s capped.
Snapchat’s New Storage Plans (2025–2026)
Here’s how the new pricing plans break down:
| Plan | Storage | Price | Best For |
| Free Tier | 5GB | Free | Casual users |
| Memories Only | 100GB | $1.99/mo | Light savers |
| Snapchat+ | 250GB + features | $3.99/mo | Regular users |
| Snapchat Platinum | 5TB + full features | $15.99/mo | Creators & pros |
Tip: If you need more than 100GB, Snapchat+ is the best value (extra storage + premium features).
User Reactions: Anger, Frustration, and Concerns
Snapchat users are furious after the app starts charging people to keep their ‘Memories’. Social media erupted with complaints when Snapchat announced the changes.
Common User Complaints
“They’re Holding My Memories Hostage” Many users feel Snapchat created dependency on the Memories feature, then retroactively charged for it. Years of accumulated content now require payment to preserve.
“I Trusted Snapchat With My Personal History” Users stored deeply personal moments—first dates, graduations, travels, lost loved ones—believing they’d always be accessible. The sudden monetization feels like a betrayal of that trust.
“The Pricing Seems Unfair” Some argue that $1.99/month for basic storage is expensive compared to competitors, especially given Snapchat’s role in encouraging users to save content in the first place.
“Why Wasn’t There More Warning?” Critics point out that users received relatively short notice about a major policy change affecting years of stored content.
Real User Stories
Emma, 24, College Graduate: “I have five years of memories saved—my entire college experience. Now I either pay $24/year forever or lose those moments. It feels like emotional blackmail.”
Marcus, 19, High School Senior: “I don’t have money for another subscription. I’m downloading everything, but it’s going to take days, and I’m terrified I’ll lose something important in the process.”
Aisha, 31, Small Business Owner: “I used Memories to store behind-the-scenes content for my business. Now it’s an unexpected expense I didn’t budget for. I’m switching to Google Photos instead.”
How Much is 5GB Really?
- Photos: ~1,000–2,500 (depending on quality)
- Videos: ~30–50 minutes of HD video
- Mixed Content: Average user may hit the limit in 2–3 years
- Heavy Savers: Could reach 5GB in just 6–12 months
Why Did Snapchat Start Charging?
Three main reasons:
- High storage costs – With 400M+ daily users saving high-res content, Snapchat’s cloud bills skyrocketed.
- Industry trend – Google, Apple, Dropbox, and Microsoft already charge.
- New revenue stream – Subscriptions provide stable income beyond ads.
What Happens If You’re Over 5GB?
Snapchat gives you a 12-month grace period:
✅ Your Memories stay safe for now.
✅ You can still view, download, and manage them.
❌ After 12 months, newer Snaps may be deleted if you don’t upgrade.
❌ Snapchat prioritizes older Memories over newer ones.
How to Check Your Snapchat Storage
- Open Snapchat
- Tap your Profile icon
- Go to Settings → Memories → Storage
- See how close you are to the 5GB limit
What to Do If You Don’t Want to Pay
If you don’t want another subscription, you can back up your Memories elsewhere:
1. Download All Memories
- Single download: Tap each Memory → Download → saves to Camera Roll.
- Bulk download: Visit accounts.snapchat.com → My Data → request all files → get ZIP in email.
2. Use Other Cloud Services
- Google Photos: 15GB free, smart search, Android/iOS friendly.
- iCloud: Best for iPhone users, starts at $0.99 for 50GB.
- Dropbox/OneDrive/Amazon Photos: Alternatives depending on what you already use.
3. Store Offline
- Save files to your computer, external hard drive, or USB drive for free permanent backup.
Should You Pay for Snapchat Storage?
Yes, pay if:
- Your Memories contain irreplaceable personal moments.
- You already use Snapchat+ (storage included).
- You regularly browse and reuse Memories.
Don’t pay if:
- You rarely look back at old Memories.
- You already back up to Google Photos/iCloud.
- You want to avoid another subscription.
How to Reduce Your Storage Use
- Delete duplicates/blurry photos you don’t need.
- Remove memes & screenshots that eat space.
- Archive older years offline, keep recent ones on Snapchat.
- Change settings: Save Snaps selectively instead of automatically.
Alternatives to Snapchat Storage (Quick Comparison)
| Service | Free Storage | Paid Options | Best For |
| Google Photos | 15GB | 100GB: $1.99/mo | Android/cross-platform users |
| iCloud | 5GB | 50GB: $0.99/mo | iOS users |
| Dropbox | 2GB | 2TB: $11.99/mo | File organization & sharing |
| OneDrive | 5GB | 1TB: $6.99/mo | Microsoft ecosystem |
| Amazon Photos | 5GB free, Unlimited photos w/ Prime | $139/yr Prime | Prime members |
Which Alternative Is Best?
For iOS users: iCloud offers seamless integration For Android/cross-platform users: Google Photos provides best features and value For Amazon Prime members: Amazon Photos maximizes existing subscription value For budget-conscious users: Google Photos’ 15GB free tier is most generous
FAQs: Snapchat Memories Storage (2025–2026)
Q1. When will Snapchat start charging for storage?
From late 2025, with a full rollout in 2026.
Q2. How much free storage do I get?
Every user still gets 5GB free.
Q3. What if I don’t upgrade after the 12-month grace period?
Your oldest Memories stay safe, but newer ones may be deleted.
Q4. Can I download all my Memories at once?
Yes, through Snapchat’s My Data request at accounts.snapchat.com.
Q5. Is Snapchat+ worth it for storage?
Yes—$3.99/mo gets you 250GB + premium features, which is better than $1.99 for just 100GB.
Q6. Can I share my storage plan with friends/family?
No. Snapchat storage is per account only.
Q7. Which is better—Snapchat storage or Google Photos?
Google Photos is better for long-term storage & search, while Snapchat is more for social sharing convenience.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Smart Move?
Snapchat’s paid storage is a big shift, but you have choices:
- Back up everything now (so you’re not at risk).
- Decide if 5GB is enough for your needs.
- Upgrade to a plan only if you actively use Memories and want cloud convenience.
👉 Pro Tip: Even if you plan to pay, download your full archive now. Having a personal backup ensures you’ll never lose priceless moments—no matter what Snapchat decides in the future.
📌 Ready to secure your Snaps? Go to accounts.snapchat.com/downloads today and grab your complete history.
