What are the differences between Google Drive’s free tier and paid plans in Canada?

The main differences between Google Drive’s free tier and paid plans (Google One) are in storage capacity, sharing options, and additional features:

• Free tier: Offers 15 GB of storage shared across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos at no cost. This space can fill up quickly with emails, photos, and files.

• Paid plans (Google One): Start at 100 GB and go up to 2 TB or more, with monthly or annual fees. For example:

  • Basic: 100 GB for about $1.99/month
  • Premium: 2 TB for about $9.99/month, includes extra benefits like 10% back on Google Store purchases and premium Workspace features such as longer Google Meet calls
  • AI Pro: 2 TB plus advanced AI tools integrated into Docs, Gmail, and other apps for $19.99/month.

• Sharing: Paid plans allow storage sharing with up to 5 family members (6 users total) at no extra cost, while the free tier is individual only.

• Additional benefits with paid plans:

  • Access to Google support
  • Extra photo and video editing filters
  • Discounts on Google Store purchases
  • Enhanced Google Workspace features (e.g., longer video calls, appointment scheduling)
  • AI-powered tools in the highest tier.

• Usage context: The free tier suits casual users with light storage needs, while paid plans target users needing more space, family sharing, or advanced productivity and AI features.

In summary, the free tier provides 15 GB shared storage with basic features, whereas paid Google One plans offer expanded storage, family sharing, premium support, and advanced tools including AI capabilities.