Does Outlook Have Something Like Google Docs?

If you're a frequent user of Outlook, you might be wondering: Does Outlook have something like Google Docs? While Outlook itself is focused on email and calendar management, it’s part of a much larger ecosystem (Microsoft 365) that includes powerful document tools. Let’s break down how Microsoft’s tools compare to Google Docs, and how you can enhance your workflow using both platforms.

1. Outlook ≠ Google Docs, But Microsoft Has an Equivalent

Outlook doesn't have its own built-in word processor, but Microsoft Word (part of Microsoft 365) is the direct equivalent of Google Docs.

Direct Equivalent of Google Docs: Google Docs vs Microsoft Word Online

Looking for a direct equivalent of Google Docs? Microsoft Word Online is the closest alternative. Here's how they compare feature by feature:

Real-time Collaboration Google Docs offers seamless real-time collaboration, and so does Microsoft Word Online—provided the document is stored in OneDrive.

Cloud-based Editing Both platforms are fully cloud-based, allowing you to create, edit, and access your documents from any device with an internet connection.

Autosave Autosave is built-in on both sides. Google Docs saves changes automatically as you type, and Word Online does the same when used with OneDrive.

Integration with Email Google Docs integrates naturally with Gmail, making it easy to share and collaborate. Microsoft Word Online connects well with Outlook through OneDrive, allowing for similar functionality.

2. Collaborating in Word vs. Google Docs

Google Docs is known for seamless real-time collaboration. Microsoft Word Online has caught up significantly, now supporting:

• Multi-user editing

• Commenting and suggestions

• Auto-saving changes

You can open a Word document shared via Outlook, edit it in your browser, and collaborate in real time.

3. Turning Documents into Forms: Outlook Doesn’t Support It Natively

Unlike Google Docs, which pairs naturally with Google Forms, there’s no built-in feature in Outlook or Word that allows you to convert documents into forms or quizzes.

That’s where Formswrite.com comes in. If you write your content in Google Docs—even while using Outlook for email, you can use Formswrite to turn that doc into a:

• Quiz

• Form

• Interactive checklist

Just paste the Formswrite link into your Outlook email, and you’re done.

4. Using Google Docs + Formswrite with Outlook

Here’s how to blend the best of both ecosystems:

1. Write your content in Google Docs.

2. Go to Formswrite.com.

3. Convert the doc into a form.

4. Share the form link via Outlook.

This hybrid workflow is perfect for educators, HR teams, and project managers who use Outlook but want the simplicity of Docs-based form creation.

Final Thoughts

Outlook doesn’t have a Google Docs equivalent built into the app - but Microsoft Word (Online) is the closest match, with excellent collaboration features. And if you want to turn documents into forms, Formswrite bridges the gap- no plugin required.

FAQ

Q: Can I write documents inside Outlook? A: No. Outlook is an email tool, but it works well with Microsoft Word via OneDrive.

Q: Is there a Microsoft version of Google Docs? A: Yes—Microsoft Word Online. It offers cloud-based editing and collaboration.

Q: Can I convert Word documents into forms? A: Not easily. For that, you’re better off using Google Docs with Formswrite.com.

Q: Can I send Formswrite links in Outlook emails? A: Absolutely. Just paste the link as you would with any URL.