Google rebranded G Suite as Google Workspace in 2020, and by 2026 the platform has evolved into a tightly integrated productivity suite used by organizations from small businesses to large enterprises. The most significant change in recent years came in January 2025, when Google bundled Gemini AI directly into all Workspace plans and raised prices 17 to 22 percent across all tiers. Customers who had previously purchased Gemini as a separate add-on at $20 to $30 per user per month received a net saving under the new structure.
The platform’s core advantage is the depth of integration across its own tools. Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Meet, and the Docs editors share data natively and update in real time across devices. Google Meet supports up to 150 participants on Business Standard and integrates directly with Calendar for scheduling. Drive uses pooled storage per organization — 2 TB per user on Standard — which suits teams with uneven storage needs.
Compared to Microsoft 365, Google Workspace is more affordable when AI is included in the comparison. Microsoft Copilot requires a separate subscription starting at $30 per user per month, while Gemini is now bundled into all Workspace tiers. Teams already invested in desktop versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint will find Microsoft 365 the more natural fit, but for browser-first workflows, Workspace offers better value.
The most consistent complaint from enterprise teams is support quality on lower tiers and the lack of phone support below Business Plus. Small businesses on Starter receive email and chat support only, and response times can be slow.
Business Starter at $7 per user per month covers core needs for most small teams. Business Standard at $14 per user per month adds meeting recordings, 2 TB storage, and enhanced Meet features — worth the upgrade for teams with regular video collaboration needs.