Microsoft Office is one of the most popular and widely used productivity software suites in the world. It offers a range of applications that are essential for tasks such as word processing, creating spreadsheets, making presentations, and managing emails. While many people rely on Microsoft Office for their work or personal needs, there is often confusion surrounding its price. In this article, we will explore the different pricing options for Microsoft Office and help you understand what it might cost you.
Microsoft offers two main pricing models for Office: a subscription-based service called Microsoft 365 and a one-time purchase called Office 2019. Let’s delve into each of these options:
1. Microsoft 365 Subscription:
Under this pricing model, users pay a subscription fee on a monthly or annual basis. By subscribing to Microsoft 365, you gain access to the latest versions of all the core products in the Office suite, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. Additionally, you receive complementary benefits like 1 TB of cloud storage on OneDrive and ongoing software updates.
Microsoft 365 comes with different subscription plans to suit individual needs. The most basic plan is called Microsoft 365 Personal, which costs around $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year. It allows you to install Microsoft Office on one PC or Mac and one tablet or smartphone. There is also a Microsoft 365 Family plan, priced at around $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year, which allows installation on up to six devices for up to six users. This plan is ideal for families or small businesses with multiple users.
2. Office 2019 – One-Time Purchase:
Another option is to purchase a perpetual license for Office 2019, which means you pay a one-time fee upfront to own the software indefinitely. Through this model, you can use programs like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook without any additional subscription fees. However, it’s important to note that this version does not receive regular feature updates, and you won’t have access to cloud-based storage.
Office 2019 comes in different editions, including Home & Student, Home & Business, and Professional. The prices for these editions can vary depending on the region and licensed devices. On average, the Home & Student edition is priced around $149, while the Home & Business edition can cost around $249. The Professional edition, designed for business users, generally has a higher price point of around $439.
When deciding between Microsoft 365 and Office 2019, it’s essential to consider your specific requirements. If you prefer having the latest features and regular updates, along with additional services like cloud storage, then Microsoft 365 may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you don’t require constant updates and prefer a one-time purchase, Office 2019 might suit your needs.
In conclusion, Microsoft Office offers a range of pricing options to cater to different user preferences. Whether you opt for a subscription-based plan like Microsoft 365 or a one-time purchase like Office 2019, the cost will depend on the specific edition, licensing, and the number of devices you want to install the software on. It’s advisable to compare features and prices before making a final decision to ensure you choose the best package that fits your budget and requirements.