Pros: Tons of smart people. Arguably the most interesting problems in computer science are being tackled on a daily basis -- certainly at an unparalleled scale. Different product areas have different cultures, so it's hard to generalize about the company as a whole, but I don't think any other company offers as good a combination of interesting projects, great benefits and compensation, smart co-workers, and good culture. It is worth noting that your experience can vary a lot depending on your product area and manager.

Cons: The company has gone a bit overboard in adding multiple levels of management in recent years, and the organization feels more top-down than in the past, but neither aspect is too severe. Be prepared for a long commute if you want to live anywhere affordable or interesting. There is an astonishing lack of diversity in political viewpoints; if your heroes are not Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi, and Paul Krugman, then don't even think about engaging in a political discussion with your peers (in person or on any internal mailing lists).

Pros: Great benefits. Great company to work for.

Cons: Bureaucracy is a big problem.

Pros: They «take care» of your health. They provide you with many transport options inside Google. They provide you with a nice salary and the best food. There are great people and great environments to work in. There is everything you need to play, think, rest, and sleep. Inside Google, there's another world, on the other side of the universe. A better world that wants to make a difference.

Cons: Probably you will not want to leave your workplace (Google).