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Google Docs vs. Microsoft Word on Android Which One is Better

January 16, 2024 2.1K views

Having the right tools can make a significant difference in your team's efficiency and productivity. Two popular options are Google Docs and Microsoft Word Android. Both tools offer unique features that cater to different workflows and preferences. People want to know more so that they can decide which one suits them best.

Part 1. Google Docs vs. Microsoft Word Android

Google Docs

Google Docs is a free, web-based word processor that is part of the Google Drive suite of productivity apps. It allows users to create, edit, and collaborate on documents online.

Features: Google Docs includes a variety of features, including:

  • A WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editor

  • A variety of formatting options

  • The ability to insert images, tables, and charts

  • The ability to collaborate with others in real-time

  • The ability to track changes and comments

  • The ability to export documents to a variety of formats

Pricing: Google Docs is free to use.

Privacy: Google Docs is a cloud-based app, which means that your documents are stored on Google's servers. Google has a privacy policy that you can read here: https://policies.google.com/privacy

Google Docs is easy to use and intuitive. The interface is clean and organized, and the features are easy to find. The app is also very responsive, even on older devices.

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is a paid word processor that is part of the Microsoft Office suite of productivity apps. It is a more powerful and feature-rich word processor than Google Docs, but it is also more expensive.

Features: Microsoft Word includes a wider range of features than Google Docs, including:

  • A more advanced formatting options

  • The ability to insert more types of objects, such as SmartArt graphics and equation editors

  • The ability to create macros and automate tasks

  • The ability to integrate with other Microsoft Office applications

Pricing: Microsoft Word is available as part of the Microsoft Office 365 subscription, which starts at $6.99 per month.

Privacy: Microsoft Word is a cloud-based app, which means that your documents are stored on Microsoft's servers. Microsoft has a privacy policy that you can read here: https://privacy.microsoft.com/en-us/privacystatement

Microsoft Word is more complex than Google Docs, but it is also more powerful. The interface is not as clean and organized as Google Docs, but the features are more robust. The app can be slow on older devices.

Comparison

Google Docs and Microsoft Word are both powerful word processors, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. Google Docs is a good choice for users who need a simple, easy-to-use word processor that is free to use. Microsoft Word is a good choice for users who need a more powerful and feature-rich word processor, but are willing to pay for it.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between Google Docs and Microsoft Word:

Feature

Google Docs

Microsoft Word

Price

Free

Starts at $6.99 per month

Cloud-based

Yes

Yes

Privacy

Your documents are stored on Google's servers.

Your documents are stored on Microsoft's servers.

Features

WYSIWYG editor, formatting options, image, table, and chart insertion, collaboration, change tracking, and commenting

More advanced formatting options, object insertion, macro creation, and Microsoft Office integration

Ease of use

Easy to use and intuitive

More complex

Performance

Responsive even on older devices

Can be slow on older devices

Recommendations

I would recommend Google Docs to the following groups of people:

  • Students

  • Casual users who need a simple word processor

  • People who need to collaborate on documents

  • Professionals who need a powerful word processor

  • People who need to create complex documents

  • People who need to integrate with other Microsoft Office applications

Ultimately, the best word processor for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are not sure which word processor to choose, I recommend trying both Google Docs and Microsoft Word and seeing which one you prefer.

Part 2. Way to Start Google Docs & Microsoft Word Android

Here is a tutorial on how to start Google Docs and Microsoft Word for Android:

Start Google Docs

Step 1. Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.

Step 2. Search for "Google Docs" and tap the "Install" button.

Step 3. Once Google Docs is installed, open the app.

Step 4. You will be prompted to sign in to your Google account.

Step 5. Once you are signed in, you will see a list of your recent documents.

Step 6. To create a new document, tap the "+" button in the bottom right corner.

Step 7. You can then start typing your document.

I found Google Docs to be very easy to use. The interface is clean and intuitive, and the features are easy to find. I also like that Google Docs is a cloud-based app, so my documents are always accessible from any device.

Start Microsoft Word

Step 1. Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.

Step 2. Search for "Microsoft Word" and tap the "Install" button.

Step 3. Once Microsoft Word is installed, open the app.

Step 4. You will be prompted to create a Microsoft account or sign in to an existing account.

Step 5. Once you are signed in, you will see a list of your recent documents.

Step 6. To create a new document, tap the "+" button in the bottom right corner.

Step 7. You can then start typing your document.

I found Microsoft Word to be a bit more complex than Google Docs, but it also has more features. I like that Microsoft Word has a wider range of formatting options, and I also like that I can create macros and automate tasks.

Ultimately, the best word processor for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a simple, easy-to-use word processor, then Google Docs is a good choice. If you need a more powerful word processor with more features, then Microsoft Word is a good choice.

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Part 3. Best Alternative Office Suite for Android - WPS Office

WPS Office is a powerful office suite that offers many services for free. It includes a word processor, spreadsheet, presentation software, and PDF reader. WPS Office is available for Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac.

Here are some of the features of WPS Office:

  • Word processor: The WPS Writer word processor is a powerful tool for creating and editing documents. It includes a variety of features, such as a WYSIWYG editor, a variety of formatting options, and the ability to insert images, tables, and charts.

  • Spreadsheet: The WPS Spreadsheet spreadsheet software is a powerful tool for creating and editing spreadsheets. It includes a variety of features, such as a variety of formulas, charts, and the ability to import and export data from other sources.

  • Presentation software: The WPS Presentation presentation software is a powerful tool for creating and editing presentations. It includes a variety of features, such as a variety of slide layouts, transition effects, and the ability to insert images, videos, and audio.

  • PDF reader: The WPS PDF Reader is a powerful tool for reading, editing, and annotating PDF files. It includes a variety of features, such as the ability to add notes, highlight text, and search for text.

WPS Office is a great alternative to Microsoft Office. It is free to use, offers a wide range of features, and is available for multiple platforms.

Here are some of the advantages of WPS Office:

  • Free: WPS Office is completely free to use, even for commercial purposes.

  • Multi-platform: WPS Office is available for Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac.

  • Feature-rich: WPS Office includes a word processor, spreadsheet, presentation software, and PDF reader.

  • Easy to use: WPS Office is easy to use, even for beginners.

  • Secure: WPS Office uses industry-standard security measures to protect your documents.

If you are looking for a powerful office suite that is free to use and available on multiple platforms, then WPS Office is a great option.

FAQs

1. How do I convert my Google Doc to Word?

To convert a Google Doc to Word, go to "File" > "Download" > select "Microsoft Word (.docx)". This will save your Google Doc as a Word file.

2. Can I work on Google Docs or Microsoft Word Android offline?

Yes, both Google Docs and Microsoft Word for Android offer offline functionality.

3. Are my documents stored securely in Google Docs and Microsoft Word Android?

Yes, both platforms prioritize user data security. They employ encryption protocols and adhere to industry-leading standards to keep your documents safe.

4. Can I collaborate with others in real-time using Microsoft Word Android?

Yes, Microsoft Word for Android offers real-time collaboration features. You can invite others to edit the document simultaneously, making teamwork seamless.

Summary

In this comparison of Google Docs and Microsoft Word on Android, we've explored their unique strengths and applications. Google Docs excels in collaborative work and offers a user-friendly interface, while Microsoft Word stands out with its advanced formatting options. However, a noteworthy alternative for Android users is the WPS Office suite. With a range of free services and support for multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac, it provides a versatile and cost-effective solution. WPS Office's commitment to user privacy and security, along with its compatibility with various document formats, makes it a strong contender in the mobile productivity landscape.

15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.