Google Slides vs Excalidraw: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Google Slides and Excalidraw comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Google Slides
Create, edit, and collaborate on presentations online, for free.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need presentation design features specifically
- • Free online presentation software.
- • Real-time collaboration and sharing.
Excalidraw
Virtual whiteboard for sketching
Best for you if:
- • You need whiteboard features specifically
- • Open-source virtual whiteboard for hand-drawn style diagrams and sketches.
- • Features real-time collaboration, voice chat, and export to PNG, SVG, and PDF.
| At a Glance |  Google Slides |  Excalidraw |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Presentation Design | Whiteboard |
Rating | 85/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Google Slides | Excalidraw |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Presentation DesignWhiteboard | WhiteboardDiagramming |
Understanding the Differences
Both Google Slides and Excalidraw solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Google Slides positions itself as "create, edit, and collaborate on presentations online, for free." while Excalidrawfocuses on "virtual whiteboard for sketching". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Google Slides
Google Slides makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution. With a score of 85/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Excalidraw
Excalidraw is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Google Slides lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Google Slides
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Google Slides handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Google Slides
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Google Slides
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Google Slides is completely free.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Google Slides higher (85/100). But the community has upvoted Excalidraw more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Google Slides Does Better
- Higher overall score (85/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Excalidraw If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Google Slides (85/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Google Slides scores higher in our analysis, but Excalidraw might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Google Slides or Excalidraw better?
Based on our analysis, Google Slides scores higher with 85/100. Google Slides isfree while Excalidraw is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Google Slides to Excalidraw easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Google Slides and Excalidraw offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Google Slides is completely free.Excalidraw is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.