# Why companies dump Microsoft 365 for Google (it's not about money)

> Gartner research reveals businesses switching to Google Workspace aren't actually saving money, raising questions about what's really driving the shift.
- Title: Why companies dump Microsoft 365 for Google (it's not about…
- Summary: Gartner research reveals businesses switching to Google Workspace aren't actually saving money, raising questions about what's really driving the shift…
- Keywords: microsoft 365, google workspace, gartner, domenico scriva, software migration, roi analysis, enterprise software, cost comparison, business strategy, ai adoption, technology, companies
- Source: TechRadar — https://techradar.com/pro/businesses-are-dropping-microsoft-365-in-favor-of-google-but-if-the-roi-is-no-different-why-are-people-switching
- Published: 2026-09-16T17:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: microsoft 365, google workspace, gartner, domenico scriva, software migration, roi analysis, enterprise software, cost comparison, business strategy, ai adoption, technology
## Google switch doesn't save money
Gartner analyst Domenico Scriva found that switching from Microsoft 365 to Google Workspace delivers no meaningful cost savings, despite Google licenses appearing cheaper upfront.

> switching from Microsoft 365 to Google Workspace doesn't actually deliver any meaningful savings
## Microsoft E5 includes more features
Microsoft 365 E5 plans bundle telephony, security, and OS licenses that Google Workspace doesn't offer, making direct price comparisons misleading.
## Google actually costs more overall
When you factor in Gemini AI included with Google versus Copilot as a paid extra in Microsoft, Google Workspace ends up costing about two dollars more per month.

> still leaves Google coming out at $2 per month more expensive
## Hardware shift might be the real driver
Google Workspace could be more cost-effective for Mac and Chromebook users, suggesting companies may be switching hardware platforms alongside their software choices.
## Retraining costs erase any savings
Migration expenses and employee retraining can instantly wipe out whatever financial benefits a company hoped to gain from switching platforms.

> retraining costs can instantly wipe any ROI
## Wait for AI to settle first
Gartner advises companies to focus on business outcomes rather than acting on frustration, and to consider waiting to see how AI reshapes software before making expensive switches.

> enterprises should consider specific business outcomes rather than acting on instinct
## Key takeaway

Companies switching from Microsoft 365 to Google Workspace should focus on actual business outcomes rather than acting on dissatisfaction, especially since the financial savings don't materialize once you account for all costs.