After years of relying on Google Docs as my primary word processor, I have finally decided to cut the cord. While its seamless collaboration is undeniable, the comfort comes with several compromises.
I used Google Docs during my college days and the early years of my freelancing career. However, my business has evolved over the years, and now I come across several confidential documents and private matters.
I wanted a solution that offered airtight security with the familiar feel of Google Docs. I tried several alternatives with end-to-end encryption and finally came across Proton Docs. Proton’s offering ticked all the boxes for me.
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Proton Docs offers end-to-end encryption
Like every Proton app and service, Proton Docs offers end-to-end encryption. Whether I’m writing a journal entry, a private letter, or even drafting a new business idea, with Google Docs, that file is stored on Google’s servers.
Proton Docs changes that game entirely. All my documents are encrypted on my device before they ever touch the cloud. In simple words, my files are fundamentally unreadable to anyone but me, not even Proton.
I was recently working on a client project that involved some confidential information. The data was sensitive, and the potential for a leak was a major concern.
In the post, I would have been hesitant to put this kind of information in a standard cloud document.
With Proton Docs, that anxiety vanished in no time. I knew that even if a server were somehow compromised, my documents would remain completely private.
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Proton Docs has improved drastically over the years
My decision to move to Proton Docs wasn’t a one-time thing. I tried using it when it was still in its early stages. But it was a frustrating experience.
The software was riddled with bugs, document loading was painfully slow, and the overall performance couldn’t keep up with the demands of my workflow.
I eventually gave up and went back to Google Docs. However, I have been keeping a close watch on Proton’s progress over the years and decided to give it another shot after recent updates.
And I’m so glad I did. The difference is night and day. The app is now fast and reliable, and the recent inclusion of the Home menu is a welcome addition as well.
And best of all, the user interface is designed to look and feel just like Google Docs, which means there was no learning curve. I was able to jump right in and continue my work without missing a beat.
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Proton also offers a robust ecosystem
Unlike many Google Docs rivals, Proton Docs isn’t a single app. It’s a part of the growing ecosystem of private apps and services.
With a single subscription, I have access to all the company’s private apps, including Drive, Calendar, Contacts, and more.
While Google offers several apps like Slides and Sheets, Proton hits right back with other useful tools. It offers an encrypted email experience with Proton Mail.
When I need to browse or search, I do it with Proton VPN, and Proton Pass has already become my go-to password manager on all my devices.
Although I don’t use it, Proton offers Wallet to store crypto as well. It’s a level of seamless integration and peace of mind that Google doesn’t offer.
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Sharing and collaboration are much more peaceful with Proton Docs
Here is where Proton Docs easily beats Google Docs. When it comes to sharing Proton documents, I’m not just sending a link; I’m granting access to a set of privacy controls.
For example, when I share a document, I have the option to password-protect it. This is a huge deal. Even if the link is shared with someone who shouldn’t have it, they can’t get in without the password.
I can also set an expiration date, so if I’m working with a freelancer over a project with a deadline, I know their access will automatically terminate. I can even instantly erase the link at any time.
This level of control is something I never had with Google Docs.
The great Google Docs migration
With that, my journey with Google Docs comes to a close. For years, it was a reliable tool that served its purpose. But as my workflow evolved, it became clear that a change was necessary.
The transition from Google Docs to Proton Docs has been seamless, and now I have peace of mind knowing my documents are secure.
However, like any software, Proton Docs is far from perfect. The mobile and tablet apps still leave a lot to be desired. I would also like to see an AI integration (Proton Scribe) in future updates.
Aside from Proton Docs, the company offers a range of services to choose from. Among them, Proton Calendar is an interesting option for those handling private meetings. Here are the top reasons to use it over Google Calendar.
