Share this article
Improve this guide
Microsoft Word vs Google Docs: Which is the Best Word Processor?
Word wars: Classic or cloud?
7 min. read
Published onOctober 1, 2024
published onOctober 1, 2024
Share this article
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Microsoft Word has been the go-to word processor for a while but Google Docs came in and has been shaking things up. So, is it time to switch to Google Docs or is Microsoft Word still good to go? We compare the two in this face-off.
Is Google Docs or Microsoft Word better?
How does Microsoft Word compare to Google Docs?
1. Features
1.1 Microsoft Word
When it comes to features, Microsoft Word sets the pace with its robust and extensive feature list. From formatting to templates, you can be sure whether you want to create a basic document or complex one with advanced formatting, Word is your trusted tool.
Looking tocreate business cardsorcalendar templates, Microsoft Word can help you do it. Word also boasts an extensive library of templates for various documents so you don’t have to start from scratch whencrafting a CVor writing a letter.
You may need some training on how to use some features likecreating a table of contents,creating a checklistor learning thebasic Word shortcut keysto enhance your productivity but it’s nothing too complex.
1.2 Google Docs
Google Docs works well and formats documents just as good as Microsoft Word. It has some basic formatting tools that are easy to master once you open a blank document. Most people love it for its flexibility because you don’t have to share documents and open them on other devices.
The features are pretty basic with limited templates and edit options but it’s not all bland. For instance, you cancreate a cover page on Google Docsoradd document outlines.
However, if you feel you need more, you can extend its functionality by installing some extensions but even then, they would not match up to Word. If you require advanced formatting, this may not be the tool for you.
2. Accessibility
2.1 Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word is accessible both online and offline. If you download Word on your desktop, you can use it without the Internet and save your work once done. You can then share the document via email for collaboration.
You will however need to turn on the track changes feature tokeep track of any changes madeand compare with the original. If you wish to get real-time updates, theWord online versioncan deliver this seamlessly.
2.2 Google Docs
As long as you have a Google account, you can open your Google doc from any device and pick up from where you left off on the last device.
You can still make changes once you enable the offline mode but the collaborators will only see the changes once the document is reconnected to the Internet and changes are synced.
3. Integration
3.1 Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word is part of the Microsoft office suite so you need to be subscribed to the Microsoft 365 subscription and download the package to use the desktop version. There’s a free trial version but once this period lapses, you’ll be unable to use the word processor or majority of the functions will be limited.
Word seamlessly integrates with apps in the Microsoft ecosystem so you can easily import data from your Excel sheet and schedule calendar meetings within. This integration enhances efficiency since you don’t have to jump from one app to the other when they’re all interconnected.
3.2 Google Docs
Google Docs comes free of charge. The only requirement is that you sign in using your Google account. If you’re not an active participant on the document, you can alsoview it anonymouslyprovided its sharing settings have not been limited.
Google Docs integrates with the Google ecosystem so you can store your documents on your Google Drive, use text on your docs to present on Slides, and more other Google services for a seamless experience.
A summarized table can show how the two word processors compare to each other.
Other noteworthy features like thedark mode for Google Docsanddark mode for Microsoft Wordmay interest you if you’re looking for aesthetics or just want the documents to be easy on your eyes.
The latest and most notable feature is theMicrosoft Copilot for Wordwhich leverages AI to help out create your documents so feel free to give it a spin.
What are the pros and cons of using Microsoft Word and Google Docs?
Pros
Cons
Pros
Cons
Now, we might have compared the two giants in the word processor world but they are not the only ones available at your disposal. After all, they do have their own share of problems.Google Docs may fail to connectandMicrosoft Word online becomes unresponsive.
If you feel that neither of these two meet your needs, we haveanother list of Word alternatives. You don’t have to feel stuck with only these two choices.
Having come to an end of this article, we’d love to get your feedback on both. For us, we use the two interchangeably depending on our needs and type of document at the time. How about you? Do you prefer one over the other? And if so, why? Let us know in the comment section below.
More about the topics:Google Docs,Microsoft Office
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
User forum
0 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
