Google Drive vs. OneDrive: 2026 Comparison

OneDrive and Google Drive are top choices for document storage, but they prioritize access, organization, and built-in integrations slightly differently.

Here’s what OneDrive users like about this feature:

• Seamless syncing across Windows devices and Microsoft 365 apps

• Built-in version history and file recovery tools

• Strong folder-level permissions for team collaboration

• Reliable offline access and SharePoint compatibility

Here’s what Google Drive users like about this feature:

• 15GB of free storage across Drive, Gmail, and Photos

• Intuitive folder and subfolder organization with drag-and-drop support

• Fast document search with OCR and natural language capabilities

• Real-time sync and editing with Docs, Sheets, and Slides

What users still struggle with:

• OneDrive’s 5GB free storage feels restrictive, and the web UI can feel clunky

• Google Drive’s shared storage fills quickly, and syncing can be glitchy

Document storage for OneDrive: Of 448 reviewers, 98% rated this feature important or highly important. It’s best for users who prioritize Microsoft compatibility and need strong version control.

Document storage for Google Drive: Of 1,037 reviewers, 98% rated it important or highly important. With intuitive organization and fast access, it’s ideal for users who want generous storage and smart collaboration.

OneDrive prioritizes secure, controlled file sharing with detailed settings, which businesses favor. Google Drive focuses on simple, fast, real-time collaboration and is popular for team use.

Here’s what OneDrive users like about this feature:

• Advanced sharing controls, such as password protection and expiration dates

• Permission settings for read, edit, and download restrictions

• Smooth integration with Outlook and Microsoft Teams for internal sharing

• Secure access management for business-critical files

Here’s what Google Drive users like about this feature:

• Quick sharing with editable, commentable, or view-only links

• Easy integration with Gmail and Google Docs for seamless collaboration

• No hassle sending large files, even via email

• Real-time editing and syncing for faster teamwork

What users find challenging in both tools:

• OneDrive users mention slower upload speeds and a cluttered interface during external sharing

• Google Drive users say its open sharing model requires careful permission management to avoid access issues

File sharing for OneDrive: Of 475 reviewers, 93% rated this feature as important or highly important. OneDrive is ideal for teams prioritizing tight control over how and with whom files are shared.

File sharing for Google Drive: Among 1,084 reviewers, 97% rated file sharing as essential. It’s a go-to for users who want speed, flexibility, and minimal friction in their collaboration process.

OneDrive and Google Drive both support permission management, but the level of control they offer is vastly different. OneDrive leans into enterprise-grade access settings, while Google Drive focuses on flexibility and ease of use.

Here’s what OneDrive users like about this feature:

• Integration with Microsoft Active Directory for fine-grained access control

• Ability to manage permissions by user role, team, or department

• Enterprise-grade features like expiration dates and download restrictions

• Security controls that meet compliance needs in regulated industries

Here’s what Google Drive users like about this feature:

• Simple permission toggles for view, comment, or edit access

• Quick sharing via email or link without complex setup

• Ability to set expiration dates and remove access with a few clicks

• Smooth access management on both web and mobile platforms

Some users report limitations with permission settings in both tools:

• OneDrive’s interface can feel overcomplicated for small teams or casual users

• Google Drive lacks audit trails and advanced permission tiers for enterprise use

Access controls/permissions for OneDrive: Of 334 reviewers, 89% rated this feature as important or highly important. It’s best for large organizations needing granular, policy-based controls.

Access controls/permissions for Google Drive: Of 891 reviews, 93% rated this feature as important or highly important. It suits teams that need lightweight, fast access control with minimal overhead.