Google Chat evolved from Google Hangouts Chat as part of Google Workspace. It provides team messaging for organizations already invested in the Google ecosystem, competing with Slack and Microsoft Teams.
Google Chat is a messaging platform built into Google Workspace. Direct messages, group conversations, and Spaces for team collaboration.
Quick Answer
Google Chat is a communication tool. Google Chat evolved from Google Hangouts Chat as part of Google Workspace. It offers a free tier. Paid plans start at $7.2/mo.
Overview
Google Chat Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Basic chat with Google account |
| Business Starter | $7.20/user/mo | Custom email, 30 GB storage |
| Business Standard | $14.40/user/mo | 2 TB storage, recording |
| Business Plus | $21.60/user/mo | 5 TB storage, eDiscovery |
Google Chat is free with a Google account. Full business features come with Google Workspace: Starter ($7.20/user/month), Standard ($14.40), Plus ($21.60), and Enterprise (custom).
Key Features
Google Chat offers direct messages, group conversations, and Spaces for team collaboration. Deep integration with Drive, Docs, and Meet means you can share and collaborate without leaving the conversation.
- Direct messages
- Spaces
- Threads
- Google Workspace integration
- Bots
- File sharing
- Meet integration
- Search
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Included with Google Workspace
- Good Google integration
- Simple interface
- Free with Google account
Cons
- Less feature-rich than Slack
- Spaces are basic
- Limited bot ecosystem
Use Cases
Google Workspace organizations use Chat as their team messaging tool. Small businesses appreciate it being included with their email. Teams using Google Docs collaborate directly within chat threads.
Our Verdict
Google Chat is the natural choice for Google Workspace users. It handles basics well but lacks the depth of Slack. Best for teams already in the Google ecosystem who want simple messaging.
Alternatives to Google Chat
View all alternativesRelated
Communication
Slack
Slack is a messaging app for business that connects people to the information they need. Organize conversations by channels for teams, projects, or topics.
Communication
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform that combines chat, video meetings, file storage, and app integration. Part of Microsoft 365 suite.
Communication
Discord
Discord is a communication platform for communities and teams. Originally built for gamers, now used by businesses, educators, and creators.
More Communication Tools
Frequently Asked Questions about Google Chat
Yes, Google Chat is free with any Google account. Full features require Google Workspace starting at $7.20/user/month.
Google Chat replaced Google Hangouts for messaging. Google Meet replaced Hangouts for video calls.
Google Chat is simpler and included with Workspace. Slack has far more features, integrations, and customization. Choose based on your ecosystem.
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