MS Office 2021 vs Office 365: What's the Difference?

Microsoft has long been a dominant force in the world of productivity software, with its Office suite being used by over 1 billion people worldwide. The company offers two main versions of its office software: MS Office 2021 and Microsoft 365. While both versions share many similarities, there are some key differences that can affect how you use and pay for the software.

Updates and Release Rates

One of the most significant differences between MS Office 2021 and Microsoft 365 is the way they handle updates and release rates. MS Office 2021 comes with a perpetual license, which means you pay for it once and own it forever. On the other hand, Microsoft 365 is a subscription-based model that requires recurrent annual payments to access all features.

Microsoft 365 is always up-to-date with the latest security and stability patches, whereas MS Office 2021 requires manual updates from time to time. This means that if you choose MS Office 2021, you'll need to ensure that your software is updated regularly to avoid any potential issues.

Licensing Model

Another significant difference between the two products is the licensing model. MS Office 2021 offers a one-time payment for a perpetual license, whereas Microsoft 365 requires recurrent annual payments. This means that if you choose Microsoft 365, you'll need to budget for annual subscription fees to continue using the software.

Traditional Productivity Applications

Both MS Office 2021 and Microsoft 365 include traditional productivity applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. However, there are some differences between the two versions in terms of features and functionality.

MS Office 2021 includes all the standard features you'd expect from a productivity suite, including word processing, spreadsheet analysis, and presentation design. On the other hand, Microsoft 365 offers additional features like advanced security and threat protection, as well as integrations with other Microsoft products like Outlook and OneDrive.

Choosing the Right Plan

So, which plan is right for your organization? The answer depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prefer a one-time payment and don't mind manual updates, MS Office 2021 may be the better choice. However, if you want access to the latest features and security patches without having to worry about updates, Microsoft 365 may be the better option.

Ultimately, it's essential to weigh the benefits and disadvantages of each version before making a decision. By understanding the differences between MS Office 2021 and Microsoft 365, you can choose the right plan for your organization and get the most out of your productivity software.

Ms office 2021 vs office 365