Know the Difference Between Microsoft Cloud & Google Cloud
Are you confused about which cloud platform would be best for you, Microsoft Cloud or Google Cloud? To make the decision easier, in this article, I am going to discuss Microsoft Cloud Vs Google Cloud. Moreover, I will also explain the difference between OneDrive and Google Drive. And help you decide which one is better.
In the modern work environment, cloud computing has become a huge part. It helps users store, access, and manage their data without requiring any physical infrastructure. In cloud services, two major competitors dominate the cloud computing space: Microsoft and Google.
Microsoft Cloud & Google Cloud – Overview
In the cloud-based service, Microsoft Cloud is a complete program that provides you with Microsoft Azure for computing and infrastructure, Microsoft 365 for productivity apps, and OneDrive for cloud storage. With enterprise-grade security, secure collaboration, and data management, many organizations use this service.
Whereas, Google Cloud is also a great cloud solution that is powered by Google’s robust infrastructure and advanced technologies like AI and data analytics. Here, you will get Google Cloud Platform for business solutions, Google Workspace for productivity, and Google Drive as the cloud storage service. For those who focus more on accessibility, cost efficiency, real-time collaboration, and web-based workflows, Google Cloud is a perfect choice.
If you are starting to use or switching to the cloud platform. Then, you may be confused about which one is best for you. Therefore, I will help you by comparing based on the business and individual user perspectives.
Microsoft Cloud VS Google Cloud: Key Differences
Nowadays, many organizations are shifting to cloud computing to manage their daily tasks. Regarding this, Microsoft and Google Cloud provide youwith many features and functions that help business productivity and collaboration. Below is the key comparison between the functions of these cloud platforms for the business.
| Basis | Microsoft Cloud | Google Cloud |
| Primary Focus | It focuses on strong collaboration and productivity using Microsoft 365, OneDrive, and enterprise identity management. | In this, its purpose is to provide real-time collaboration with Google Workspace and Google Drive for smooth teamwork. |
| Storage Service | For storage space, OneDrive is used with Windows and SharePoint integration for file sharing and control. | Google Drive is used for strong search and AI-powered collaboration from Docs, Sheets, and Slides. |
| Security & Compliance | Provide advanced compliance standards for finance, health, and government industries. | It offers secure and expandable infrastructure for global collaboration and remote teams. |
| Integrations | Microsoft Cloud is easily integrated with Outlook, Teams, and other Microsoft Tools. | It syncs with Gmail and Google Workspace apps. |
| On-Premise Support | The program offers you strong hybrid deployments using Azure Stack and Active Directory. | Google Cloud is mostly an online platform with limited on-premise integration. |
By comparing these two, you can say that Microsoft Cloud would provide you with enterprise-level features that are very useful for the business. Whereas Google Cloud focuses on giving you fast and reliable cloud services. Along with this, many also confuse OneDrive and Google Drive. So, I also provide you with a comparison between these two programs.
OneDrive Vs Google Drive – Basic Comparison
To store your data, both program has a cloud service: OneDrive and Google Drive. These applications are used to store, share, and manage your data. Their usage is similar, but they are very different from each other. So, the table below offers you a full comparison between these two.
| Aspects | OneDrive | Google Drive |
| Suitable For | OneDrive is a Microsoft product that is connected with Microsoft 365, Outlook, and other MS Office-related tools. | Google Drive is Google’s core tool. Which is integrated with Google Workspace, Gmail, and other Google Apps. |
| Storage Space | You will get 5 GB of free storage and get more with Office 365 plans. | 15 GB free storage that is shared across Gmail, Drive, and Photos. |
| Collaboration Tools | You can securely share files with OneDrive with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams. | Whereas, Google Drive provides you with real-time collaboration to edit Docs, Sheets, and Slides online. |
| Security Measures | OneDrive offers enterprise compliance features, data governance, and ransomware protection. | It uses Google security for your personal and business work. |
| Integration with Devices | Users easily integrate their OneDrive with Windows and other Microsoft environments. | Google also develops mobile and desktop versions of Google Drive. So, it is suitable for phones, Chromebooks, and other Google environments. |
| Pricing Range | It can be a high price with other Microsoft 365 apps, and it provides 1 TB of storage per user. | Google Drive is free and affordable when using the plans. |
This is the basic comparison of Microsoft Cloud vs Google Cloud. To help you in your decision, I am going to explain the two aspects: pricing structure and security features in more detail.
Compare Microsoft Cloud & Google Cloud Pricing Structure
One of the key aspects to consider when choosing between Microsoft Cloud and Google Cloud is the price. Although both provide free and paid services. However, there is a huge difference in their pricing structure. So, here I am going to explain in detail.
- Storage Pricing: Storage facilities are both free and paid, depending on the plan you are using.
- In every Microsoft account, you will get 5 GB free storage, and in Google, 15 GB free storage, which are basic.
- When you are using the Microsoft standalone paid plan, you will get 100 GB. In a Google One subscription, the paid storage begins at 100 GB.
- Microsoft 365 subscriptions offer higher storage,1 TB and above. Google offers you upgrade options: 100 GB, 200 GB, and 2 TB with the higher plans.
- Downloading and File Sharing Price: In both platforms, you will get the file-sharing feature. But, frequently, download, experience, and indirect costs differ.
- You can share your files and download them for free in OneDrive. Same with Google file sharing is free with multiple options.
- If you’re downloading large data from business accounts. Then, it counts towards usage limits in Microsoft 365. Whereas Google offers you a few download restrictions.
- Managing Files and Backup: Microsoft Cloud and Google Cloud offer you data management across devices. But the models of price are different.
- If you are using PC folder backup in Microsoft, then it comes with a free plan. Similarly, users can backup and sync their data in Windows, Mac, and mobile devices for free.
- If you need additional storage, then you must have an Office 365 subscription. For more storage in Google, it gives you affordable options of 2 TB or higher.
So, by comparing these two programs, Google Cloud is more affordable than Microsoft. But if you need higher storage, sharing, and data management. Then, Microsoft is the best.
Security Features Provided by Microsoft & Google Cloud
Security is also needed when you are using a cloud platform because many enterprise uses these programs to store large amounts of sensitive data. So, security measures are also important in choosing the right cloud platforms.
| Security Areas | Microsoft Cloud | Google Cloud |
|---|---|---|
| File Protection | It uses data encryption methods: BitLocker and SSL/TLS to encrypt your files during upload and storage. | Google also encrypts files during storage and uploads using 256-bit encryption. |
| Account Protection | Two-Step Verification, Windows Hello, PIN, and fingerprint. | 2FA, mobile prompts, passkeys, Advanced Protection program. |
| Controls on File Sharing | Password-protected links, view-only links, expiring links, internal sharing controls. | Provide permissions viewer/commentator/editor, expiring access, restricting download/copying, and transparent access control. |
| Threat Detection & Ransomware | Microsoft offers Ransomware detection, complete OneDrive restore, and version history. | In this, virus scanning occurs when uploading files, version history, and security alerts. |
| Enterprise-Grade Security | It provides Data Loss Prevention, smart admin controls, and you can strongly integrate with Microsoft 365. | Users can connect with Google Workspace security and get DLP, a security dashboard, and context-aware access. |
So, here are the complete Microsoft Cloud vs Google Cloud. With all these differences, users can easily decide which problem would be best suitable.
Which One is Better – Microsoft Cloud or Google Cloud?
Honestly, both Microsoft Cloud and Google Cloud are good cloud solutions. They each give you a variety of functions like collaboration, security measures, and a sharing facility. However, it depends on the users what they need.
- If you need the cloud service for your business. Where you need Microsoft 365 and strong security and compliance needs. Microsoft Cloud is great for you, as it is deeply integrated with Outlook and other Microsoft products.
- On the other hand, if you are freelancers, students, or teams who need simple, fast, and cheap cloud services. Use Google Cloud, as it also comes with Google Workspace.
- In some cases, Microsoft Cloud and Google Cloud can be used together. For example, you are working in a hybrid workplace where you need the benefits of both Microsoft and Google Cloud.
So, I have explained the difference between these two and helped you choose which cloud platform is best for you. Now, it is based on your judgement what you need and which one is great for you.
Bonus Tip – How to Switch from OneDrive to Google Drive?
In an hybrid environment where one uses both OneDrive and Google Drive. They often have to move their data from OneDrive to Google Drive or vice versa. So, to help you make the migration easier. Expert advise you to use. SysTools OneDrive to Google Drive Migration Tool. A professional software wheree you can transfer your complete data from OneDrive to Google Drive effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which is better between Google and Microsoft?
Ans. Both are great on their own. But Microsoft and its cloud platforms focus more on the business and high-tech features. Whereas Google and its cloud are used for online sharing and easy access.
Q. Why do people prefer Microsoft over Google?
Ans. Microsoft provides youwith a strong integration with the Office apps, better Windows compatibility, and advanced features. Also, those who already use Microsoft products prefer the Microsoft environment to Google.
Q. Why are companies switching from Google to Microsoft?
Ans. Due to strong security controls, deeper integration with enterprise tools, organizations prefer Microsoft. Also, to get the enterprise-grade features, Microsoft 365 is a great option.
Last Words
In this article, I have discussed Microsoft Cloud vs Google Cloud. In addition to that, I have also discussed the difference between OneDrive and Google Drive with more detailed aspects, pricing, and security features. With the comparison table, you can easily understand them and help you decide the appropriate cloud platform for you.