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Office 2021 vs Microsoft 365: A Detailed Comparison for Business
Choosing between Microsoft‘s productivity suites can be confusing. This article breaks down the key differences between Office 2021 and Microsoft 365, helping you make an informed decision for your business. At KEYS GALAXY, we pride ourselves on providing original software licenses quickly and digitally, ensuring you have seamless access to your chosen suite.
Licensing Models: Per Device vs Per User
Office 2021 uses a per-device licensing model. This means you purchase a license for one computer (PC or Mac), and anyone using that computer can access the Office suite. However, you’ll need another license for each additional computer. On the other hand, Microsoft 365 offers a per-user model, allowing each user to install and use Office on up to five devices. This could be a laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone. The per-user model provides more flexibility and is especially useful if users need access on multiple devices.
Updates and Upgrades: One-Time vs Ongoing
With Office 2021, you receive the current version of Office with up to five years of patches, updates, and security fixes. However, when a new version of Office is released (e.g., Office 2026), you’ll need to buy a new license to upgrade. In contrast, Microsoft 365 provides continuous updates, patches, and security fixes, as well as any new feature or version upgrades as long as your subscription is active. This means you always have the latest version of the software.
Application Access: Desktop Only vs Desktop and Online
Office 2021 includes the full desktop versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. You also get Teams, but it’s a limited version without the ability to host meetings or collaborate on files. Microsoft 365 provides both the full desktop and online versions of these apps. Additionally, you get the full version of Teams with video conferencing and collaboration features. It is a common misconception that with microsoft 365 you only get online versions, this is simply not true, you get both, online and desktop.
Editions and Features: Home, Business, and Professional vs Multiple Tiers
Office 2021 comes in Home and Business, and Professional versions. Both offer the desktop versions of the apps but the Professional edition also includes Publisher and Access, and the rights for remote desktop usage. Microsoft 365 has several editions, starting from online-only to fully functional business standard and premium, which offers services to replace email servers and file servers. Only the business premium edition includes remote desktop usage rights.
Cost Analysis: One-Time Fee vs Subscription
Office 2021 is a one-time purchase, costing about $249 for the Home and Business edition or $440 for the Professional edition. This is a fixed cost, which you won’t have to revisit until it stops receiving updates or you decide to upgrade. Microsoft 365 is a subscription service. The closest equivalent to Office 2021, the Microsoft 365 Apps for Business, costs about $99 per year. More comprehensive plans like Business Standard or Business Premium include additional services. For most businesses, the higher-tier plans offer better value due to the comprehensive cloud services and collaboration tools.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Business
The decision between Office 2021 and Microsoft 365 depends on your needs. If you simply require the core desktop applications and prefer a one-time payment model, Office 2021 may be suitable. However, if you want the latest features, ongoing updates, and access to online and cloud services, Microsoft 365 is the more compelling option, offering far more than just simple access to applications. If you need the software licenses mentioned above quickly and digitally, KEYS GALAXY can help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install Office 2021 on multiple computers?
No, Office 2021 is licensed for one computer. You’ll need a separate license for each additional device.
Does Microsoft 365 require an internet connection to use?
While the online apps require internet access, Microsoft 365 also includes desktop versions of the applications that can be used offline. However, you do need an internet connection for license verification.
Which version of Microsoft 365 is best for small businesses?
Most small businesses will find the Business Standard plan to be the best starting point, as it includes desktop and online apps, cloud storage, and business email.
Do I receive software updates with Office 2021?
Yes, you’ll receive updates and security fixes for about five years. After that, you may need to upgrade by purchasing a new version if you want the latest features.
Can I use Teams to collaborate in Office 2021?
Office 2021 includes a limited version of Teams, which does not allow for hosted meetings or collaboration on files.
How does KEYS GALAXY deliver software licenses?
At KEYS GALAXY, we deliver original software licenses digitally to our customers. After a successful purchase, you will be able to quickly and efficiently download the license key that you need. We strive for your 100% satisfaction and quick digital delivery.
Key Takeaways:
- Office 2021: Best for users who need only the core desktop apps and prefer a one-time purchase.
- Microsoft 365: Best for users who want ongoing updates, online access, and the full suite of collaboration tools.
- KEYS GALAXY: Your reliable source for original software licenses, delivered quickly and digitally.
Keywords:
- Office 2021
- Microsoft 365
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- Per-user license
- Microsoft Office
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- One-time purchase
- Subscription service
- Software updates
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- Teams collaboration
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