Google Docs is one of the most popular online word processors, allowing users to create, edit, store and collaborate on documents from any device. However, it lacks some advanced features that power users may need.
Fortunately, there are several great alternatives to Google Docs that offer additional functionality. This article will explore the 8 best Google Docs alternatives for online word processing.
What to Look for in an Online Word Processor
When choosing an alternative to Google Docs, there are a few key features to consider:
- Collaboration tools – Ability to collaborate in real-time, track changes, add comments
- Compatibility – Ability to open/edit Microsoft Word documents
- Offline access – Availability of desktop and mobile apps for offline use
- Security – Encryption of files at rest and in transit
- Templates – Library of templates to quickly start new documents
- Pricing – Free and paid plans to fit different needs
Keeping these features in mind will help you select the right online word processing app for your needs.
1. Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365, formerly Office 365, is an obvious alternative for current Microsoft Word users. The online Word app provides real-time co-authoring and many of the same features as the desktop version.
Key features:
- Real-time collaboration
- Track changes
- Comments
- 1TB cloud storage per user
- Desktop and mobile apps
- Microsoft Word format compatibility
- 5GB free storage
Microsoft 365 starts at $6.99 per month for premium features. But the free online Word app offers core functionality for basic needs.
2. Zoho Writer
Zoho Writer is an elegant, free online word processor with collaborative editing and file sharing. It offers real-time co-authoring, version history, comments, document encryption, and more.
Key features:
- Real-time collaboration
- Track changes
- Comments
- Microsoft Word support
- Version control
- Offline sync
- Templates
- Spell check
- Free and paid plans
Zoho Writer is free for basic use with premium plans starting at $3 per month. It’s an excellent, full-featured alternative to Google Docs.
3. OnlyOffice
OnlyOffice provides a free online office suite with word processing, spreadsheets and presentations. It focuses heavily on collaboration and Microsoft Office formats.
Key features:
- Real-time co-editing
- Track changes
- Comments
- File permissions
- Microsoft Office support
- Offline editors available
- Templates
- Free and paid plans
For a free, open-source alternative, OnlyOffice is hard to beat. It matches Google Docs for collaboration and feels very similar to Microsoft Word.
4. Quip
Quip offers a streamlined, collaborative word processor that feels more like a messaging platform. All documents are live and sync instantly across users.
Key features:
- Real-time collaboration
- Thread-style comments
- Messaging
- Spreadsheets support
- Third-party integrations
- Apps for all platforms
- 14-day free trial
Quip provides a unique take on collaborating around documents. While formatting options are limited, its communication flow stands out from traditional word processors.
5. Coda
Coda brings documents together with spreadsheet, database and presentation tools for flexible project management. Real-time collaboration across all doc types.
Key features:
- Real-time co-editing
- Comments
- Integrated tables and calendars
- Third-party app integration
- Web and mobile apps
- 14-day free trial
For teams that need to manage documents, data and tasks in one place, Coda does it all. While not a pure word processor, it excels at unified collaboration.
6. Dropbox Paper
Dropbox Paper offers collaborative document creation from file storage leader Dropbox. It focuses on simplicity but supports basic word processing needs.
Key features:
- Real-time collaboration
- Comments
- File embedding
- File storage integration
- Mobile apps
- Spell check
- Free and paid plans
As a simple alternative, Dropbox Paper allows easy sharing and collaboration around documents. But power users may want more formatting and layout options.
7. Nuclino
Nuclino provides a visual collaboration platform with real-time document creation at its core. A unique interface prioritizes relationships between information.
Key features:
- Real-time co-editing
- Visual hierarchy
- Commenting
- File embedding
- Customizable layouts
- Web and mobile apps
- Free and paid plans
For those seeking an alternative approach to traditional word processing and document creation, Nuclino delivers. The visual interface facilitates understanding connections as information evolves.
8. Collabora Online
Collabora Online offers a free, open-source alternative built for real-time collaboration. It supports major office formats and integrates with many popular web platforms.
Key features:
- Real-time co-editing
- Track changes
- Comments
- Strong encryption
- Microsoft Office support
- Plugin architecture
- Self-hosted option
- Free and paid plans
For those with more advanced self-hosting needs, Collabora Online is a free, open-source project perfect for custom platforms. It rivals Google Docs for features and compatibility.
Conclusion
While Google Docs sets the standard for free online word processing, many compelling alternatives exist. Depending on your priorities and needs, options like Zoho Writer, OnlyOffice or Quip may be a better fit.
Evaluate the collaboration tools, compatibility, security and pricing to determine the best Google Docs alternative for your situation. With the right platform, you can painlessly transition from Google Docs to a new online word processor.
