Microsoft sells its Office apps in two very different ways, and the names make it easy to mix them up. Here is a plain comparison.
Office 2021 and Office 2024: buy once, keep it
These are perpetual versions. You pay once and the apps are yours for that PC. They include the core desktop apps such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint (the exact line-up depends on the edition, for example Home & Student or Professional Plus). They receive security fixes but no new features after release.
Microsoft 365: a subscription
Microsoft 365 is paid monthly or yearly. In return you get the latest versions, continuous feature updates, and extras such as cloud storage and cross-device access. Stop paying and the apps become read-only.
Office 2021 vs Office 2024
Office 2024 is the newer perpetual release. It adds refreshed design and newer features that Office 2021 does not have, while Office 2021 remains a stable, familiar choice that is often cheaper. If you want the most recent perpetual version, pick 2024. If your needs are simple and you want to spend less, 2021 is still perfectly capable.
Quick guide
- One PC, no ongoing fees: Office 2021 or 2024.
- Many devices, always up to date, cloud storage: Microsoft 365.
- Small budget, basic documents: Office 2021 Home & Student.
Always check which apps are included in the edition you are buying, since Outlook and Access are not part of every package.
Ready to choose? Browse our full software catalogue. Every order includes a licence key by email, with install instructions and a download from the vendor’s own site.
