lifehackerlifehacker LifeHacker LifeHacker Gmail vs. Outlook | Which email service is easier to use?

Some people want a better email service but don't know which one to choose.

Gmail from Google and Outlook from Microsoft. Which one suits your needs?

Even though the two have similar features, they may be completely different or have advantages over the other depending on what you want out of your email service. This time, let's explain while comparing all of Outlook and Gmail.

Overview

Gmail

Gmail is Google's free email service, first released in 2004. You can access Gmail from your computer's web browser, many third-party apps, and Android and iOS mobile apps.

Not only as an email service, but also works with Google Drive, Calendar, Documents, etc.

Outlook

Outlook is a desktop email client and webmail service. Developed and sold by Microsoft, it has over 500 million users worldwide.

Outlook is available in free and paid versions and includes contacts, calendar, task management and more.

Let's see how Gmail and Outlook differ.

1. Features

Outlook

When comparing individual features, Outlook trumps Gmail.

You could say that Outlook has everything you need, including automatic email management, cleanup features that let you delete multiple threads of emails, and customizable templates.

Outlook's archive folder is more functional than Gmail's archive, allowing you to single out only 'archived messages'.

Outlook also has contacts and calendar features on the same interface, making it easy to schedule meetings.

Gmail

Gmail, on the other hand, puts all your archived emails in a regular folder (All Mail), which can be confusing, especially if you're new to Gmail.

Another disappointment with Gmail is that calendars and contacts aren't integrated within the same app. Rather, it's a separate app integrated with Gmail.

Navigating from app to app can be tedious and frustrating if you're writing an urgent email.

When it comes to features, most people would prefer Outlook.

2. Pricing

Unless you're using the email service for commercial purposes, it's nice to have a free option.

Both Gmail and Outlook have free versions, but for the best service, you'll have to stick with the paid version.

Both paid versions offer the same services. The main difference is the amount of storage available with each plan. Storage capacity ranges are as follows:

Outlook (Microsoft 365)

To use Microsoft's paid version of Outlook, you must purchase the "Microsoft 365" package. The price of "Microsoft 365" is as follows.

"Microsoft 365 Business Basic" for general corporations is 540 yen per user per month.

"Microsoft 365 Personal" for home is 1284 yen per month and 12,984 yen per year.

Also, if you are a Windows computer user, you can get a permanent license for 32,784 yen by selecting the "Office Personal 2021" plan.

Gmail (Google Workspace)

Google Workspace's "Business Starter" plan can use 30GB of cloud storage for 680 yen per month.

The "Business Standard" plan, which costs 1,360 yen per month, provides 1TB of storage for 5 or less people, and unlimited storage for 5 or more people. You can also upgrade from the "Business Starter" plan for a fee.

The "Business Plus" plan, which costs 2,040 yen per month, has the same features as the "Business Starter" plan, plus additional security features.

When it comes to pricing, I would say Gmail is more affordable.

3. Interface

Gmail

Gmail's interface is arguably the best of all email services.

It is divided into two sections: a menu that displays categories such as Inbox and Drafts, and a main section that displays your emails.

Gmail has a simple yet attractive design with a minimalist approach. It's uncomplicated and has a toolbar at the top for easy access.

Outlook

Outlook, on the other hand, has a lot of options in the on-screen strip that can be confusing to new users.

But once you get used to it, you will appreciate the convenience and accessibility.

4. Storage Options

Gmail

Gmail allows you to upload files to Google Drive and share them via Gmail.

For example, if you try to upload a file that is too large to email, Gmail will automatically prompt you to upload it to Google Drive. Just click to upload.

Gmail comes with 15GB of free storage, compatible with both Google Drive and Gmail. To add 30GB of space, you must purchase a Google Workspace monthly plan.