When it comes to tech success, choosing the right education platform makes all the difference. Everything from managing assignments better to engaging with students more deeply helps you improve the online learning experience - for everyone involved.

Two of the biggest names in virtual classrooms are Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams for Education. Both provide a range of classroom management tools. But they also have different strengths and are suited to different teaching styles.

So, if you’re wondering whether to use Google Classroom vs Microsoft Teams, this guide will break down the key differences. Then, we’ll help identify the right fit for your needs. Let’s get started.

Is Google or Microsoft better for education?

Google Workspace for Education and Microsoft Teams for Education both provide a suite of edtech tools. Both bring fundamental capabilities, such as:

• Integrated chat, discussion boards and quizzes for engagement

• Secure cloud file storage and sharing

• Built-in video conferencing for online classes.

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However, the platforms vary quite widely depending on how you use them:

• Google Classroom is part of the Google education tools ecosystem. It’s user-friendly, integrating with Google apps like Google Docs, Google Drive and Gmail.

• Microsoft Teams for Education is a more feature-rich learning management system (LMS) than Google. It also has deeper integrations with Microsoft Office apps, OneDrive and SharePoint.

Is Google Classroom better than Teams?

In some cases, the choice of Google Classroom vs Microsoft Teams can be straightforward.

• Do you already use a Google account for Google Docs, Google Drive and Google Meet? Then Google Classroom may be the natural choice.

• On the other hand, if you already use Microsoft products like Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote, then MS Teams brings natural compatibility.

However, it might not always be that easy. You might be starting from scratch. Maybe you’re moving from other video conferencing solutions. Perhaps you’re currently using both and want the benefits of choosing just one. No matter your situation, you need the ins and outs of both platforms.

Let’s compare Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams in more detail.

Google Classroom vs Microsoft Teams comparison

Pricing

When it comes to online learning platforms, you can gain some brilliant digital classroom tools for a little outlay. For example:

• Google Classroom comes free with some basic features. Better service and more advanced tools are available with Google Workspace for Education subscriptions, from £2.50 to £4.00 per student per year.

• Microsoft Teams for Education is free for eligible schools. For paid, Microsoft 365 Education plans are on request, although at a similar price range to Google Classroom.

Video conferencing

Both tools provide excellent video calls for remote learning. Specifically:

• Google Classroom integrates with Google Meet for video lessons and live discussions

• MS Teams has built-in Microsoft Teams meetings, breakout rooms and meeting recordings, all integrating with the Microsoft 365 suite of apps.

Functionality

In terms of edtech functionality, both platforms give teachers and learners all the tools they need. Both have the capabilities to send and receive classwork, collaborate with others and grade assignments. Overall, both allow anybody in the e-learning environment to get their job done.

Collaboration tools

Both Microsoft Teams and Google Classroom are strongly integrated into their respective ecosystems. Depending on which platform you choose, your solution will work with the following productivity tools:

• Google Classroom works best with Google Docs, Google Drive and Google Meet.

• Microsoft Teams connects with OneDrive, SharePoint, Word, PowerPoint and Excel.

Ease of use

The good news is that both tools are extremely easy to use. For modern learners especially - used to Microsoft apps and Google tools - adopting either should be a breeze. Most notably:

• As with other Google tools, Google Classroom has a minimal interface. It’s user-friendly for teachers and students.

• Microsoft Teams has a slightly steeper learning curve, but it offers a more well-rounded ecosystem, advanced security and additional project management tools.

File sharing

Finally, both options come with excellent cloud storage for real-time document sharing and editing. Google Drive is used for all file storage and sharing in Google Classroom. Likewise, MS Teams uses OneDrive and SharePoint, letting you set structured permissions and storage rules.

Which is better, Microsoft Teams or Google Classroom?

So, which is the best choice for your needs? While it can sometimes be a tricky choice, it’s a good idea to consider that:

• Google Classroom is ideal if you already use Google Workspace for Education or want a more lightweight platform.

• Microsoft Teams for Education may be best if you use Microsoft Office apps, are a larger institution, or if you want more advanced collaboration, security and file sharing.

Finding the right classroom management tools for you

At Bridgehampton, we’ve helped many organisations choose the right collaboration platforms for their needs. When considering Google Classroom vs Microsoft Teams, we’ll help you find a solution that fits your budget, tech setup and preferences.

Need expert advice on video conferencing and IT solutions? Contact us today for your free consultation.

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