Both give you professional email and the apps your team needs. Here's how Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace really differ for a small business.
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace both bundle business email, file storage and collaboration apps. The right choice usually comes down to how your team works and which apps they already know.
The apps and how your team works
Microsoft 365 gives you the full desktop Office apps. Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, installed and offline-capable, which suits businesses that live in spreadsheets and documents. Google Workspace is browser-first and brilliant for real-time collaboration.
Email and migration
Both offer reliable business email on your own domain. If you're moving from another provider, our guide to migrating email to Microsoft 365 covers a clean cut-over without losing mail.
Pricing and licensing
Entry tiers are broadly comparable per user. Microsoft 365 tends to win where you need desktop Office and deeper Windows integration; Workspace is simple and lean. Charities can access discounted or free Microsoft 365, see our Microsoft 365 page.
Which should you pick?
Choose Microsoft 365 for desktop Office, Teams and Windows-heavy environments. Choose Google Workspace for browser-based, collaboration-first teams. Either way, set up SPF, DKIM and DMARC so your email lands in inboxes.
Not sure which Microsoft 365 plan? Compare Business Basic, Business Standard and Business Premium.
Key takeaways
- Microsoft 365 = full desktop Office, Teams, offline working.
- Google Workspace = browser-first, real-time collaboration.
- Pricing is broadly similar at entry tiers.
- Charities can get discounted Microsoft 365.
Microsoft 365 set up for you
Gander Web sets up Microsoft 365 email and apps, and migrates your existing mail across cleanly.
See Microsoft 365Frequently asked questions
Is Microsoft 365 better than Google Workspace?
Neither is universally better. Microsoft 365 suits desktop-Office and Windows teams; Workspace suits browser-first, collaborative teams.
Can I keep my email address if I switch?
Yes. Both let you use email on your own domain, and you can migrate existing mail across.
Can charities get Microsoft 365 cheaper?
Yes. Eligible non-profits can access discounted or donated Microsoft 365 licences.