For modern businesses, cloud storage is no longer a nice to have. It is essential to how teams work, share information and stay connected. As remote and hybrid work become the norm, the ability to store, access and collaborate on files from anywhere is vital. That is why many teams are weighing up Google Drive vs OneDrive, as both platforms offer secure, cloud-based file storage designed to support modern ways of working.
Beyond accessibility, reliable cloud storage also plays a critical role in version control, backup, cross-team collaboration and secure file sharing. Choosing the right platform has a direct impact on productivity, flexibility and the overall digital experience of your organisation.
Google Drive vs OneDrive | The basics
Google Drive and OneDrive are two of the most widely used cloud storage platforms in the world. Both offer secure file storage, syncing across devices and collaborative tools, and both come bundled with broader productivity suites: Google Workspace and Microsoft 365.
Google Drive is built into Google Workspace, alongside familiar tools like Gmail, Docs, Sheets and Slides. OneDrive is part of Microsoft 365, working alongside Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
While both platforms serve similar purposes, the way they deliver that functionality can feel quite different depending on how your teams work.
Key features | Google Drive vs OneDrive compared
When it comes to features, both platforms are capable and business-ready. But there are differences in how they approach collaboration, integration and the overall user experience.
Feature | Google Drive (Workspace Business Standard) | OneDrive (Microsoft 365 Business Standard) |
|---|---|---|
Storage flexibility | ✅ 2 TB pooled per org | ❌ 1 TB per user by default, expandable by admin request |
Real-time collaboration | ✅ Browser-native | 🔶 Co-authoring works best in desktop Office apps |
File-sharing & permissions | ✅ Share dialog with expiry options and fine-grained controls | ✅ Password-protected and expiring links available |
Search & discovery | ✅ Smart suggestions and ML-powered search chips | 🔶 Natural-language Copilot search (requires licence) |
Ecosystem integration | 🔶 Works across Workspace and can add Marketplace add-ons | 🔶 Strong integration with 365, can use AppSource add-ins (more admin-led) |
Mobile & offline access | ✅ Auto-syncs offline edits across web, desktop and mobile | 🔶 Manual offline setup using Files On-Demand |
AI assistant overlay | ✅ Gemini included with Business Standard for summaries and file help | 🔶 Microsoft 365 Copilot is a separate paid add-on |
✅ Strong out-of-the-box
🔶 Good but scenario-dependent
❌ Comparatively limited
Pricing and licensing
Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 both offer tiered pricing plans designed for businesses of all sizes. Rather than list exact figures, it is best to refer to their official pricing pages for the most current breakdown:
When comparing equivalent tiers such as Google Workspace Business Standard and Microsoft 365 Business Standard, Microsoft is generally slightly lower in cost. However, it is worth noting that Google includes its AI assistant, Gemini, across core Workspace apps at no additional charge on Business Standard and above. Microsoft, on the other hand, offers Copilot as a separate paid add-on (which is quite pricey)!
Pricing for both platforms may change over time as new features are introduced. The best fit for your organisation will ultimately depend on your priorities around features, integrations and support.
Which one is right for your business... Google Drive or OneDrive?
The choice between Google Drive and OneDrive often depends on the systems you already use and what your teams need day to day.
If your organisation is already working with Gmail, Google Meet or Docs, then Google Drive will offer the smoothest and most integrated experience. It is designed for real-time collaboration, supported by powerful admin tools and enhanced by Google’s strengths in search and AI.
For businesses that are fully invested in Microsoft tools such as Outlook, Excel and Teams, OneDrive may feel like a more familiar fit.
Ultimately, both platforms are strong in their own right. The best choice will come down to what you value most.
Of course, we are a little biased. As a Google partner, we are always rooting for Google Drive when comparing the two. But when you take a step back and look at the marketplace, the features and the long-term value on offer, we genuinely believe Google comes out well ahead.
If you are thinking about adopting Google Drive or moving your organisation to Google Workspace, we would love to help you explore the right approach.
