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Microsoft 365 vs. Microsoft Office: Here’s our clear winner

One may have more features, but one is far cheaper.
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Compare Microsoft 365 and the lifetime version of Office. Credit: InterPlein

TL;DR: While codes last, you can save $189 on Microsoft Office Home and Business for Mac 2019 (the PC version is also available).


You could may monthly for Microsoft 365 access, or you could pay $39.99 once and get lifetime device access to Microsoft Office Home & Business.

But which should you choose?

Let's put the two ways of accessing your favorite Microsoft apps head to head.

Microsoft 365, the subscription-based version, charges users $10 monthly for cloud-based access to the latest version of the apps. On the other hand, a Microsoft Office license asks for a one-time $39.99 payment for lifelong access to the apps on your device. This is our discounted offering since this purchase normally costs $229.

How does Microsoft 365 get away with charging such hefty subscription fees? Well, users get a few more apps than the Office lifetime license (like the Clipchamp video editor), built-in cloud storage, and mobile app access. The 2019 version of Office also looks a little different from the newest version, though you still get the most important Microsoft tools.

What you need to ask yourself is this: Do I really want another monthly subscription fee? We find that most people simply want affordable, lifelong access to their favorite Office apps — and that’s what the lifetime device license gets you.

Instead of paying each month, you’ll pay once, receive an email with your download link and activation code, and install the software on your Mac (PC codes are also available). Then, you’ll have access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Teams Classic for the life of your computer.

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While some users may still opt for Microsoft 365 for the cloud-based apps and mobile access, those looking for the most affordable version can save at the Mashable Shop.

Get Microsoft Office Home and Business for Mac, now $39.99 (reg. $229).

StackSocial prices subject to change.


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