Microsoft Office Buyers Guide
Microsoft Office is the most used and trusted productivity software for homes and offices around the globe. Today there are three ways to own it: the latest one-time-purchase version, Office 2024; its predecessor Office 2021, which remains excellent value; and the Microsoft 365 subscription, which is always kept current. This guide explains what each app does, how the generations differ, and which retail edition fits your needs. Buying for a team? Approved business accounts get automatic volume discounts: 3 or more Windows/Office licences save 3%, 5 or more save 5%, 10 or more save 8% (not combinable with coupon codes) — apply via our business application page.
Office 2024 vs Office 2021 vs Microsoft 365
A perpetual licence (Office 2021 or 2024) is a one-off payment: you own that version outright, install it on one PC or Mac, and it never expires — you just stop getting new features once mainstream support ends. Microsoft 365 is a subscription: a rolling fee covers continuous feature updates, 1TB of OneDrive storage, use across multiple devices, and AI-assisted Copilot features in the apps. If you want to pay once and keep it, buy perpetual; if you want the newest features and cloud services, subscribe.
| Office 2021 | Office 2024 (latest) | Microsoft 365 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Payment | One-off | One-off | Monthly / annual subscription |
| Supported until | 13 October 2026 | 9 October 2029 | Continuous — always current |
| Feature updates | Security fixes only | Security fixes only | New features monthly, incl. Copilot AI |
| Devices | 1 PC or Mac | 1 PC or Mac | Up to 5 devices per user |
| Cloud storage | None included | None included | 1TB OneDrive per user |
| Best for | Budget buyers who pay once | Owners who want the newest perpetual version | Multi-device users and teams |
What changed in Office 2024? Sharper performance, a refreshed look that matches Windows 11, new Excel functions and dynamic charts, improved Outlook search and meeting tools, and better accessibility throughout. Note that Office 2024 retail comes as Home (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote) and Home & Business (adds Outlook); Publisher and Access remain available in Office 2021 Professional, as Publisher has been retired from the 2024 wave.
The apps at a glance
Word
A word-processing program used to transform a blank page into a polished document in the blink of an eye. Writing of any style can be easily formatted through customizable templates or manually with your own vision in mind. Use Editor to proof your document and get checks on spelling, grammar, and other style suggestions to improve your writing.
Excel
A spreadsheet program that features calculation, graphing tools, pivot tables, and more. Organize your data, and use charts and graphics to present your information in a fresh, new way. Use bars, colors, and icons to highlight trends and patterns visually. Easy-to-use templates make presenting trends and forecasts simple.
Powerpoint
A presentation program used to create and give gorgeous presentations like a true professional. Design and maximize the visual impact of any presentation. Combine photo, video, text, and more to make a stunning slideshow for any meeting, presentation, or speech.
OneNote
A free-form, note-taking program to get organized and stay organized. Compile notebooks, sections, and pages and quickly search across typed or handwritten notes. With OneNote, you can type, write, or draw, allowing you to shape your vision in any way you choose.
Outlook
An email program that connects calendars, contacts, and files seamlessly. Manage your calendar, share meeting times, schedule events, and get reminders. Share any Office attachments from your computer or from the cloud. Create Groups to discuss, collaborate, and share files and notes with others.
Publisher
A desktop publishing program that allows you to layout photos, marketing materials, and more. Use professional-looking effects for text, shapes, and pictures. Personalize publications using familiar tools in a way that best suits your audience. Available in Office 2021 Professional — not included in the 2024 editions.
Access
A database management solution for Windows operating systems. Build web databases and publish them to a SharePoint site. Enter, manage, and run reports on a large scale. Compile important information by storing for future reference, reporting, and analysis.
Office 2024 — latest perpetual versions
Need Publisher or Access?
Office 2021 Professional below is the edition that still bundles Publisher and Access alongside the core apps.