8 Reasons Why I Prefer Google Docs Over Microsoft Word (2024)

Microsoft Word used to be my go-to word processor, but I switched to Google Docs a few years ago, and I haven’t looked back since. With free access and seamless collaboration, it offers everything a great word processor should. Here’s why I prefer Google Docs over Microsoft Word—and why you might want to consider it too.

1 Google Docs Is Completely Free

Microsoft Word's online version is free, but the desktop app requires a paid subscription or one-time purchase for most users. While students and teachers can get Microsoft 365 for free, the option isn’t available to everyone. Regular users can only access Microsoft 365 desktop apps for free via a limited trial.

Microsoft Word for the Web has fewer features than its desktop version, while Google Docs is completely free and provides complete access to all essential features with no hidden costs. If you, like me, want to avoid extra expenses, Google Docs is an excellent alternative that saves you the monthly cost of a Microsoft 365 subscription.

2 It Offers All the Features I Need

While Google Docs doesn't include every feature available in Microsoft Word’s desktop app, it has all the tools I need for creating and managing my documents. Beyond the basic formatting options, I can translate documents, use voice typing when I prefer not to type, compare different versions of my document, and correct grammar issues.

I can easily add and manage citations and use the Explore tool to conduct research without leaving my document. I can use hundreds of add-ons, a Full-Screen mode for distraction-free writing, and collaborate in real time. This makes it a compelling Microsoft Word alternative. That said, I do miss a few Word features, like advanced referencing and mailing.

3 Collaboration Is Easy and Seamless

Although Microsoft Word has improved its real-time collaboration, Google Docs offers a smoother experience. In Word’s desktop app, I need to upload documents to OneDrive before sharing, whereas Google Docs stores everything in the cloud from the start. Changes sync almost instantly in Docs, while there’s often a slight delay in Word.

With Google Docs, I can easily share documents with others, manage access permissions, communicate via comments, and track changes—all in real-time. Performing these tasks in the Word desktop app can feel slower and more cumbersome, as shared documents take a moment to load fully. If you’re new to Docs, get familiar with its collaborative features.

4 Google Docs Fits Seamlessly Into My Workflow

Since I used to use most of the Google Suite products, Google Docs integrated naturally into my workflow. With a single Google Drive account, I can easily manage documents in Docs, spreadsheets in Sheets, and presentations in Slides. I can even start a Google Meet call directly from Docs and set reminders and deadlines using Google Calendar.

The seamless data transfer across these apps allows me to link documents, collaborate easily, and stay within one ecosystem. Sharing files with others is also easier, as I don’t need to import from other sources. Plus, storing all my data in one cloud platform means I don’t have to switch between multiple storage solutions to find what I need.

I also recently transitioned from Windows to macOS after getting my first MacBook Air, so stepping away from Windows gave me another reason to let go of Microsoft products.

5 The Interface Is Clean and Uncluttered

​​​​​​​Google Docs has a clean, minimalist interface that reduces distractions. Instead of rows of buttons and menus, it displays only the essentials, allowing me to focus on writing without the clutter of unnecessary options. As a writer, I appreciate this streamlined design, which feels neither overwhelming nor bloated.

In comparison, while packed with powerful tools, Microsoft Word can sometimes feel cluttered or complex to navigate, especially since I don’t need advanced features for every document. Although we can hide the ribbon, repeatedly toggling it can interrupt my workflow. Plus, I find the writing experience in Docs visually more appealing than Word.

6 Google Docs Is Better Optimized for Mobile

With IBS and lower back pain, I can’t work in a sitting position on my laptop for extended periods, so I often shift to writing on my phone from bed. Although Microsoft Word has a mobile app, it feels heavy and clunky, especially when working with large, media-rich documents. Even basic edits feel tedious and annoying sometimes.

In contrast, Google Docs is easy to use on a smartphone. Its Android and iOS apps are lightweight, responsive, and intuitive and mirror nearly all the functionality of the web version, making it easy to transition. Even on a smaller screen, the large, easy-to-tap buttons keep writing and editing simple, unlike the cumbersome experience on Word’s mobile app.

7 It Doesn’t Use Up Space on My Computer

One significant advantage of Google Docs is its cloud storage and online management, meaning neither the software nor my files occupy space on my computer. In contrast, Microsoft Word and my saved files occupy local storage space, and large document files constantly clutter my hard drive or desktop. This isn't an issue if you use Office online.

While I could store files in OneDrive, I habitually create local copies, which gradually fills up my hard drive. Additionally, while Google Docs automatically saves everything to Google Drive for access from any internet-connected device, Word files stored locally aren’t accessible everywhere unless synced with OneDrive.

8 No Compatibility Issues to Worry About

I appreciate Google Docs because it’s entirely web-based and free from compatibility issues. I can access my document with its original formatting on any device—whether a Windows PC, Mac, Chromebook, or a smartphone—making document sharing and collaboration easy. I don't have to worry if the recipient has the latest software.

With Microsoft Word, documents saved in newer formats can lose their formatting in older Word versions, and some features might be missing on public devices running outdated software. Although Microsoft Word has a compatibility mode to address these issues, Google Docs offers a consistent experience across all devices, no matter where or how you’re using it.

I switched to Google Docs from Microsoft Word for all these reasons and am very happy with the change. However, you shouldn't switch without considering your needs—Microsoft Word might still be a better choice, primarily if you work in an office or organizational setting. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding.