Two of the biggest names in operating systems and software have both released their take on the ideal to-do list app. While Google opted for a barebones, laser-focused application centered on giving individual users maximum control, Microsoft attempted to take the genre further and add some collaboration into the mix. 

The execution of these parallel goals rapidly diverges upon actual use of either company's app, showing different priorities, apparent target demographics, and levels of cohesive design. 

We've reviewed both Google Tasks and Microsoft To Do already, highlighting the pros and cons of each application. If you'd like to take a deeper dive into the specifics of each, take a look at our coverage linked below. 

Of course, it's unlikely any single implementation of a to-do list manager will be perfect for everyone. So, with that in mind, let's decide whether Microsoft To Do or Google Tasks is the best option for most users by pitting them against each other in a head-to-head comparison of availability, cost, external service integrations, widgets, functionality, and ease of use.  

The main screens of each app (Microsoft To Do - left | Google Tasks - right).