How do I choose between continuous backups and snapshot backups in AWS Backup?

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To help you choose between continuous backups and snapshot backups in AWS Backup, compare their capabilities. Then, choose the backup type that best meets your use case.

Continuous backups

Continuous backups provide point-in-time recovery (PITR) with 1-second precision for up to 35 days. AWS Backup creates an initial full backup followed by continuous change log backups that work with specific AWS resource types only.

Choose continuous backups if you need granular restore capabilities for frequently modified resources or to track all data changes for compliance. This backup type works well for transaction-heavy workloads and environments that your budget allows for additional storage costs.

Snapshot backups

Snapshot backups create snapshots at intervals that you define with scheduling options as frequent as once per hour. You can store backups for up to 100 years and create incremental backup copies. This backup type works with most AWS resource types.

Note: If you create a backup plan without point-in-time recovery (PITR), then AWS Backup creates a snapshot backup plan.

Choose snapshot backups if you can accept some data loss between scheduled backups or need extended backup retention periods. This backup type works well for noncritical applications with periodic updates and static content.