Leaving Google Workspace? Here's everything you need
Compare 3 EU alternatives side-by-side. Find the right fit based on migration difficulty, pricing, and privacy features.
Your data may be subject to US surveillance laws
Google Workspace is headquartered in the US. Under the CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, US authorities can access your data without your knowledge. Switch to an EU alternative to keep your data protected under GDPR.
All EU Alternatives at a Glance
| Alternative | Country | Pricing | Difficulty | Time Estimate | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NextcloudRecommended Nextcloud is a self-hosted cloud storage solution designed to provide secure and compliant data management for individuals and organizations. It offers end-to-end encryption for files, ensuring that your data remains private and protected. With GDPR-compliant data processing, Nextcloud is an ideal choice for those prioritizing data sovereignty and privacy, especially within the European Union. Key features include version control for file revisions, collaborative document editing, and two-factor authentication support, making it a robust tool for both personal and professional use. The platform is extensible with third-party apps, allowing users to customize their experience according to their needs. Nextcloud is suitable for businesses, educational institutions, and privacy-conscious individuals who require a reliable and secure cloud storage solution. With cross-platform mobile and desktop apps, users can access their data anytime, anywhere. Pricing varies based on the deployment model, with options for both free and enterprise-level support. By hosting data within the EU, Nextcloud ensures compliance with stringent data protection regulations, offering peace of mind to its users. | 🇩🇪Germany | Free plan available | Medium | 2-4 hours | |
OnlyOffice ONLYOFFICE offers a secure online office suite highly compatible with MS Office formats. Connect it to your web platform for document editing and collaboration or use as a part of ONLYOFFICE Workspace. | 🇱🇻Latvia | Free plan available | Medium | 2-4 hours | |
CryptPad CryptPad is a secure, collaborative office suite designed to protect your privacy while enabling seamless teamwork. With end-to-end encryption, CryptPad ensures that only you and your collaborators can access your documents, making it an ideal choice for privacy-conscious users. Its real-time collaborative editing feature allows multiple users to work on documents simultaneously, enhancing productivity without compromising security. Key features include GDPR-compliant data handling, customizable templates, and version history tracking, all hosted within the EU to ensure data sovereignty. CryptPad is open source and community-driven, offering transparency and flexibility to its users. It is perfect for individuals, teams, and organizations that prioritize data privacy and need a reliable platform for document creation and sharing. CryptPad's pricing model includes a free tier with optional paid plans for additional storage and features, making it accessible for both personal and professional use. | 🇫🇷France | Free plan available | Medium | 2-4 hours |
Our Top Picks
Best for Privacy
Nextcloud is a self-hosted cloud storage solution designed to provide secure and compliant data management for individuals and organizations. It offers end-to-end encryption for files, ensuring that your data remains private and protected. With GDPR-compliant data processing, Nextcloud is an ideal choice for those prioritizing data sovereignty and privacy, especially within the European Union. Key features include version control for file revisions, collaborative document editing, and two-factor authentication support, making it a robust tool for both personal and professional use. The platform is extensible with third-party apps, allowing users to customize their experience according to their needs. Nextcloud is suitable for businesses, educational institutions, and privacy-conscious individuals who require a reliable and secure cloud storage solution. With cross-platform mobile and desktop apps, users can access their data anytime, anywhere. Pricing varies based on the deployment model, with options for both free and enterprise-level support. By hosting data within the EU, Nextcloud ensures compliance with stringent data protection regulations, offering peace of mind to its users.
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Migration difficulty data is being enriched for these alternatives.
Detailed Comparison of Each Alternative
Nextcloud is a self-hosted cloud storage solution designed to provide secure and compliant data management for individuals and organizations. It offers end-to-end encryption for files, ensuring that your data remains private and protected. With GDPR-compliant data processing, Nextcloud is an ideal choice for those prioritizing data sovereignty and privacy, especially within the European Union. Key features include version control for file revisions, collaborative document editing, and two-factor authentication support, making it a robust tool for both personal and professional use. The platform is extensible with third-party apps, allowing users to customize their experience according to their needs. Nextcloud is suitable for businesses, educational institutions, and privacy-conscious individuals who require a reliable and secure cloud storage solution. With cross-platform mobile and desktop apps, users can access their data anytime, anywhere. Pricing varies based on the deployment model, with options for both free and enterprise-level support. By hosting data within the EU, Nextcloud ensures compliance with stringent data protection regulations, offering peace of mind to its users.
Advantages
- Full GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards.
- Self-hosting offers complete control over data storage locations.
- Open-source nature allows for customizable solutions.
- End-to-end encryption enhances file security options.
Trade-offs
- Migration requires technical expertise and time investment.
- Lacks integrated video conferencing like Google Meet.
- Learning curve for users unfamiliar with self-hosted tools.
ONLYOFFICE offers a secure online office suite highly compatible with MS Office formats. Connect it to your web platform for document editing and collaboration or use as a part of ONLYOFFICE Workspace.
Advantages
- Full GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection.
- Self-hosting option offers more control over data.
- Open source allows for customization and auditing.
- MS Office format compatibility aids document sharing.
Trade-offs
- Migration from Google Workspace can be complex.
- Lacks integrated video conferencing like Google Meet.
- Learning curve for users familiar with Google tools.
CryptPad is a secure, collaborative office suite designed to protect your privacy while enabling seamless teamwork. With end-to-end encryption, CryptPad ensures that only you and your collaborators can access your documents, making it an ideal choice for privacy-conscious users. Its real-time collaborative editing feature allows multiple users to work on documents simultaneously, enhancing productivity without compromising security. Key features include GDPR-compliant data handling, customizable templates, and version history tracking, all hosted within the EU to ensure data sovereignty. CryptPad is open source and community-driven, offering transparency and flexibility to its users. It is perfect for individuals, teams, and organizations that prioritize data privacy and need a reliable platform for document creation and sharing. CryptPad's pricing model includes a free tier with optional paid plans for additional storage and features, making it accessible for both personal and professional use.
Advantages
- End-to-end encryption protects all document data
- GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards
- Open source allows for transparency and customization
- Self-hosting option offers full data control
Trade-offs
- Migration from Google Workspace can be complex
- Limited third-party app integrations compared to Google
- Learning curve for users new to CryptPad's interface
Before You Switch
Export your data from Google Workspace before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
General Data Export Steps
- 1Log into your Google Workspace account and navigate to Settings or Privacy.
- 2Look for "Download your data", "Export", or "Data portability" options.
- 3Select all data you want to export and choose a standard format (ZIP, CSV, JSON).
- 4Wait for the export to complete — large accounts may take hours or days.
- 5Download and verify the export before proceeding with migration.
Under GDPR Article 20, you have the right to data portability. Google Workspace is required to provide your data in a structured, commonly used format upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Google Workspace?
There are 3 European alternatives to Google Workspace. Nextcloud, OnlyOffice, CryptPad are among the top-rated options. All are GDPR-compliant and store your data in European data centers.
How long does it take to switch from Google Workspace?
Migration time varies by alternative. Most migrations can be completed in under an hour with our step-by-step guides. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative.
Can I export my data from Google Workspace?
Yes, most services including Google Workspace allow you to export your data. Check the settings or privacy section of your Google Workspace account for data export options. GDPR also grants you the right to data portability.
Is switching from Google Workspace to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Google Workspace first, 2) Set up the new EU service, 3) Import your data, 4) Run both services in parallel for a transition period, 5) Update any linked accounts or integrations, and 6) Cancel your Google Workspace subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Google Workspace to an EU alternative?
EU alternatives provide stronger privacy protection under GDPR, keep your data in European data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act or FISA Section 702. By switching, you gain true data sovereignty and support European tech innovation.