Honest Comparison
PikSend vs Google Drive: Why Shared Folders Are Not a Client Gallery
Google Drive is a storage tool. PikSend is a client gallery platform. Both can host photos — but only one gives clients a professional experience without requiring a Google account.
The Short Answer
Use Google Drive if:
- You already use Google Workspace
- Clients always have Google accounts
- You need general file storage (not photo delivery)
Use PikSend if:
- You want clients to browse without logging in
- You need a branded gallery experience
- You want client favorite selection
- Photos should display at original quality in browser
Why Photographers Stop Using Google Drive for Client Delivery
Clients Ask “How Do I Access This?”
Not every client has a Google account — or knows how to navigate a shared Drive folder. You end up spending time on support instead of shooting. PikSend galleries open in any browser, no account required. Share a link, done.
Photo Previews Look Compressed in Drive
Google Drive compresses thumbnails and previews when viewed in the browser. Clients may think the quality is lower than it actually is — leading to questions and complaints. PikSend displays photos at original quality in the gallery. What you upload is exactly what clients see.
No Professional Branding
A shared Google Drive folder looks exactly like a shared Google Drive folder — it has nothing to do with your photography brand. PikSend Pro lets you put your logo, colors, and custom domain on every gallery. The experience reinforces your brand, not Google's.
No Client Favorite Selection
In Google Drive, clients have no way to select favorite photos for you. You end up getting a list via text message or email. PikSend includes a built-in favorites feature — clients click a heart on their preferred photos and you see the list in your dashboard.
Feature Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of PikSend and Google Drive for photo delivery
| Fonctionnalité | PikSend Free | PikSend Premium | PikSend Pro | Google Drive Free | Google One 100GB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Monthly Price | $0/mo | $15/mo | $29/mo | $0/mo | $2.99/mo |
Storage | 2 GB | 100 GB | 1 TB | 15 GB | 100 GB |
Client Experience | Branded gallery | Branded gallery | Branded gallery | Shared folder | Shared folder |
No Login Required | |||||
Original Quality Display | Compressed previews | Compressed previews | |||
Custom Branding | |||||
Lightroom Plugin | |||||
Password Protection | |||||
Client Favorites | |||||
Gallery Monetization | 5% fee |
Commission la plus basse • Plugin Lightroom unique • Support ultra-rapide
Rejoignez 500+ photographes qui ont choisi PikSend
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do photographers use PikSend instead of Google Drive?
Google Drive requires clients to navigate shared folders and often requires a Google account. PikSend creates a gallery link that clients open instantly — no account required. PikSend also displays photos at original quality in the gallery, while Drive compresses previews.
Does Google Drive compress photos?
Google Drive compresses photo previews when viewed in the browser. Original files are preserved for download, but the initial gallery impression is compressed. PikSend displays original quality at every step.
Can I use my own branding with Google Drive?
No. Google Drive folders show Google's interface. PikSend Pro lets you add your logo, brand colors, and custom domain.
Is Google Drive cheaper than PikSend?
Google Drive is part of Google Workspace or Google One. For photographers, Google One 100 GB is $2.99/month — but it includes no gallery features, no client favorites, no branding, and no Lightroom integration. PikSend Premium at $15/month is more expensive but purpose-built for professional photo delivery.
Does PikSend work with Lightroom?
Yes. PikSend Pro includes a Lightroom plugin for direct gallery uploads. Google Drive has no Lightroom integration.
Stop sending clients to Google Drive. Give them a gallery.
Start free — 5 galleries, no credit card required. Your next client will notice the difference.