Is One Drive right for simple storage

Yes, OneDrive can provide the simple cloud storage you describe, but choose the workflow carefully because its desktop folder is synchronized, not an independent archive. For maximum manual control, upload selected pictures and documents through OneDrive on the web using Add new > Files upload or Folder upload, and do not enable backup for Desktop, Documents, or Pictures. If you prefer File Explorer, enable Files On-Demand, place the files in the OneDrive folder, wait for sync to finish, then choose Free up space so they remain online-only and use no local storage. Do not delete an online-only file to remove its placeholder: deletion also removes the cloud copy and synchronizes to other devices. Deleted items can usually be restored from the OneDrive recycle bin, but retention is limited. For irreplaceable photos, keep a second independent backup because synchronization and recycle-bin recovery are not the same as permanent archival protection.