Key Difference – Google Docs vs Google Drive
The key difference between Google Doc and Google Drive is that Google Drive is a document management systems whereas Google Docs works within Google Drive. There is some confusion over the difference between Google Docs and Google Drive. Google launched Google Drive as an alternative to other online document sharing systems like Microsoft 365. Portions of the Google Docs platform and the document storage system was migrated to Google Drive. Google Doc existed before Google Drive. Many still refer Google Drive with the old Google Docs name. Some also refer to Google Drive as Google apps, which does not describe any technical product. Google Drive competes with Microsoft Onedrive which was formally known as Microsoft SkyDrive.
CONTENTS
1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is Google Docs
3. What is Google Drive
4. Side by Side Comparison – Google Docs vs Google Drive
5. Summary
Google Docs – Features and Specifications
Google Docs works on a web-based platform that allows users to create, share and edit documents through a secure system. There is also Google Sheets, and Google Slides to create spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations. Users will be able to upload word or text-based data and do editing online by converting them. Multiple users can also work at the same time in real time. You can adjust margins, add pictures, edit content and touch up the document from any location with the help of the internet.
Google Docs also allows multiple version of documents as well. Previous incarnations can be rolled back without any information loss. Docs can also declare privileges to individual users. Docs enable multiple viewers, commenters, and editors for a single project due to the ability of privileges being set. After the document has been completed, it can be saved to the desktop as a word, open office, HTML, RTF or pdf and can be placed in a zipped file.
Figure 01: Google Docs
Google Drive – Features and Specifications
Google Drive is a cloud-based storage solution for files. If you are a person on the move, Google drive will be a very useful option. If you are working with many collaborators, Google drive can become your personal file depository. Google drive can be set up to accommodate multiple users to access files and folders from any device that connects to the internet and supports Google drive.
Google drive is an effective way to store documents. It is also cost effective. It can store documents, music, pictures, videos, and other important documentation. If your desktop, laptop or storage system crashes, Google drive will safely save all your files.
Google drive can also open file formats that are not supported by your computer. The files can be opened with the use of a web browser, and it will automatically search for the appropriate program that could be used to view the file.
Google drive comes with multiple ways to find, view and sort your files. This is unlike the previous version of Google documents list which had a limit. One of the impressive features of Google drive is the ability to find text inside pictures. This will help you find what you are exactly looking for when all the pictures come with a generic label.
Google drive can be named an individual level tool. Individuals can get 15GB free while 100 GB can be obtained for just $2 per month. 1TB of space can be obtained for $10, and the storage can be extended to up to 30 TB. You can just about save anything on Google Drive. Various types of business apps are integrated with Google Drive, giving it value on productivity. As mentioned before, business tools like Google docs, Google sheets, and Google slides give google drive the productivity it is known for. You can create these documents directly within Google Drive. You can also upload and convert documents and in Google format and edit them online.
Figure 02: Google Drive
What is the difference between Google Docs and Google Drive?
Google Docs vs Google Drive |
|
| Google Drive is an information organization system. | Google Docs works within Google Drive. |
| Function | |
| This can store files and documents can also be easily shared. | This can import existing files, share and edit them. Can create new documents, can convert Google Docs from one file format to another. |
| Applications | |
| Google Docs, Maps and Calendars are incorporated into Google Drive. | Google docs can be saved onto Google drive. |
| Mobility | |
| This can be synced across multiple devices. | Google documents can be shared across the device with the use of Google Drive. |
| Storage | |
| This is an online repository. | This enables online editing. |
| Backup | |
| Google drive can act as a backup. | Multiple versions of the document can be stored. |
Summary – Google Docs vs Google Drive
Google Docs and Google Drive are completely separate applications. When they work together, they can provide harmonious and effective collaboration for user around the world. The main difference between Google Docs and Google Drive is their function; Google Drive can save or backup files and documents while Google Docs can create, modify or edit documents.
Image Courtesy:
1. “How to Make eBooks with Google Docs” by Amit Agarwal (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr
2. “New Google Drive” By TrainChaser – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia