Microsoft Word
Classic
Word processing
The classic desktop word processor most switchers already own via Microsoft 365, with deeper offline formatting control than Docs.
Documents
Track changes
Templates
Paid · from $6.99/mo
Google Docs
Classic
Collaborative document editing
4.6
Freemium · from Free
Best for Anyone drafting documents togetherOverview
Google Docs is the default free word processor for real-time collaboration and commenting. Its writing assistance is minimal compared with dedicated AI editors.
Key features
- Real-time collaboration
- Comments
- Version history
- Templates
Pros
- Free
- Effortless sharing
- Works anywhere
Cons
- Basic writing assistance
- Weak offline mode
Google Docs screenshot
Captured from the official website
Google Docs replaces
AI alternatives to Google Docs
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All-in-one workspace for notes and docs
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Docs
Databases
Wikis
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Zoho Writer
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AI-powered online word processor
Free cloud word processor with built-in AI assistant, ideal for small teams wanting a no-cost Docs replacement.
Real-time collaboration
Zia AI assistant
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Coda
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AI-assisted writing
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Dropbox Paper
Classic
Simple collaborative docs from Dropbox
Lightweight collaborative doc tool for teams already living in Dropbox.
Real-time co-editing
Task assignments
Media embeds
Free · from $0/mo
Quip
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Documents, spreadsheets, and chat in one place
Salesforce-owned docs-plus-spreadsheets tool for CRM-embedded collaboration.
Embedded spreadsheets
Built-in team chat
Salesforce integration
Paid · from $10/user/mo
ChatGPT
AI
AI that can analyze your data and write code
AI-first writing surface for drafting and editing documents conversationally instead of typing manually.
Natural language data queries
Automatic chart generation
Code execution sandbox
Freemium · from $20/mo