Google APIs vs building your own microservices APIs: which is more cost-effective?

Using Google APIs is usually cheaper and faster for standard backend needs such as authentication, storage, and AI, as Google handles hosting, scaling, security, and updates. Building and maintaining your own microservices APIs offers ultimate flexibility but requires ongoing infrastructure, monitoring, security maintenance, and development time. Unless your requirements are unique or regulated, leveraging Google APIs is generally more cost-effective for most businesses.