Chat is probably the most common tool for communication in the modern world.
Consumers use chat to reach out to companies with quick questions, communicate over social media, or answer questions with bots. Employees access chat features to maintain productivity, collecting important details, and discussing tasks.
It’s not surprising that all of the world’s top UCaaS and collaboration apps today come with their own chat functionality. For Google, it’s the Google Chat feature, previously known as Hangouts Chat. For Microsoft Teams, it’s the chat ecosystem available within the Teams platform.
Today, we’re going to explore the differences between the two chat options and discuss how you can choose between the two.
Google Chat Features
Otherwise known as “Hangouts Chat”, Google Chat is a component of the wider Google Workspace portfolio (previously G-Suite). Chat combines with a host of other tools in Google’s Workspace suite to provide users with a convenient way to stay connected with colleagues and peers online. You can access both one-on-one and group messaging in the same environment, and securely connect with remote contacts anywhere.
Though available as a component of Google Workspace, Chat also acts as a standalone app, and an integration for Gmail. The integrated portfolio makes it easier to keep track of conversations across various environments. Features of Google Chat include:
- 1:1 or Group messaging in a team environment
- Search for employees by name and number
- Track and save conversations for access later
- Switch from chat to voice or video calls easily
- Collaborate in dedicated rooms with up to 8,000 members
- Access up to 28 languages
- Threaded conversations for better-organized communications
- Workspace access with Docs, Sheets, and Slides
- Bots and smart suggestions to help you speed up discussions
- Google search function for finding crucial message and files
- Security and built-in protection for peace of mind
- Share links, files and photos in the same place
- Calendar integration for planning meetings
Similar to Microsoft Teams, Google Chat acts as a central hub for asynchronous conversations in the mobile, and digital world of work. As companies continue to evolve and hybrid working becomes more popular, tools like Google Chat ensure staff members can connect quickly and painlessly whenever they need to. You can even upgrade from chat to a video or audio call in a couple of clicks.
Microsoft Teams Chat Features
Microsoft Teams’ chat function is just one component of a comprehensive out-of-the-box solution for collaboration and productivity. The Teams environment combines everything you need to communicate with colleagues into one space. You can make calls through your Teams dashboard, set up one-on-one or group messages, or launch video calls., Microsoft Teams users have access to features like file and screen sharing tools, as well as the option to share expandable links and GIFs. You can even add emojis to messages to give them a personal touch.
Like with Google Chat, Microsoft Teams users can build their own channels, explore threaded messages, and use search functions for tracking down crucial information. You’ll also have access to a host of moderation tools to influence how your employees manage and share information. Features of Microsoft Teams Chat include:
