Choosing the right software suite can be a game-changer for your productivity. In the face-off between Microsoft 365 and Office 2021, the decision isn’t just about software; it’s about what’s the smart choice for your specific needs
Gosoftware has got you covered, and this article will bring you a comprehensive comparison so that you will explore the features, benefits, and drawbacks of Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021.
Let’s dive in and find out which one aligns with your requirements.
What is Office 2021?
For Office 2021 lovers, Microsoft Office 2021 is the latest standalone version of Microsoft’s popular office suite.
It offers a comprehensive set of applications for creating, editing and managing documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and more.
To be more clear, you can understand that Office 2021 is designed for individuals and businesses who prefer a one-time purchase model over subscription-based services like Microsoft 365.
Now, Gosoftware will help you explore the various versions of Office 2021 and what makes it a go-to choice for many users.
Regarding apps, Office 2021 includes:
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Outlook
- Publisher
- Access
Versions of Office 2021
Like other packages, to meet user needs, office 2021 launches attractive versions with different features and prices.
So if you don’t know which office 2021 package is best for you, let’s find out with Gosortware right away.
Current office 2021 packages include
| Version | Ideal User | Key Features | Windows Compatibility | macOS Compatibility |
| Office Home & Student 2021 | Students, Home Users | Basic document editing, spreadsheet, and presentation tools. | ✅ | ✅ |
| Office Home & Business 2021 | Small Businesses, Self-employed Individuals | Email management, calendaring, and essential productivity tools. | ✅ | ✅ |
| Office Standard 2021 | Organizations with Document Management Needs | Desktop publishing, document management, and email communication. | ✅ | ✅ |
| Office Professional 2021 | Businesses with Database and Publishing Needs | Advanced database management, desktop publishing, and communication tools. | ✅ | ✅ |
| Office Professional Plus 2021 | Large Organizations with Advanced Communication Needs | Advanced communication, collaboration, and database management tools. | ✅ |
At Gosoftware, you will have the best deal with:
- Microsoft Office 2021 Home & Student (Windows)
- Microsoft Office 2021 Home & Business (Windows)
- Microsoft Office 2021 Professional Plus (Windows)
- Microsoft Office 2021 Home & Student (Mac)
- Microsoft Office 2021 Home & Business (Mac)
Cool Feature Of Office 2021
✔️Time-Tested Apps: Office 2021 keeps your favorite applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint up to date with the latest tools. You get all the classic features that have made these apps essential for years.
✔️One-Time Payment: No subscriptions here! Office 2021 is a one-time purchase. You buy it once, and it’s yours forever. It means you don’t have to pay monthly charges anymore.
✔️Work Anywhere: You’re not tethered to the internet. Office 2021 apps are installed on your computer, so you can work offline. It’s perfect for those coffee shops or remote work sessions.
✔️Privacy and Control: Your data is yours. Office 2021 gives you control over your documents without the need for constant cloud access. Your privacy is important.
✔️Familiar Interface: If you’ve used Office before, you’ll feel right at home. The user-friendly interface hasn’t gone anywhere.
✔️Support and Updates: Office 2021 isn’t left in the dust. You’ll receive security updates and bug fixes to keep your software running smoothly.
✔️Customization: Tailor your documents with a range of formatting options, templates, and themes. Make your work stand out.
✔️Versatility: Create professional documents, crunch numbers with powerful spreadsheets, and dazzle with engaging presentations.
✔️Improved Visuals: Your documents will look better than ever with improved visuals. Sharper images, smoother graphics, and more vibrant colors make your content pop.
✔ ️ Morph Feature: In PowerPoint, there’s the “Morph” transition feature. It’s like magic for your presentations, effortlessly transforming one slide into another for seamless, eye-catching transitions.
✔️Converting Ink Into Shapes: Got a touchscreen or a stylus? Write or draw, and Office 2021 can convert your ink into precise shapes and text. It’s like turning your sketches into polished documents.
✔ ️ Microsoft Translator: Collaboration becomes a breeze with built-in Microsoft Translator. You can translate words and phrases in multiple languages right within your documents.
✔️Zoom Feature: Need to keep your audience engaged during presentations? The “Zoom” feature in PowerPoint lets you create interactive, non-linear presentations. Jump to any slide, section, or topic with ease.
✔️New Data Analysis Tools in Excel: Excel enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Office 2021 introduces new data analysis tools that make it even easier to analyze and visualize your data. You’ll be a data pro in no time.
Note: if you want to learn about office 2019. You will have a quick look at the comparison of office 2019 and office 2021 here.
What is Microsoft 365?
So, what’s this Microsoft 365 all about? Microsoft 365 is a versatile and comprehensive suite of cloud-based productivity tools and services provided by Microsoft.
It’s designed to empower individuals, businesses, and organizations with a wide array of applications and features to enhance productivity, collaboration, and communication.
It’s not just software; it’s a game-changer for how you work and collaborate.
In this section, Gosoftware will help you break down the magic of Microsoft 365, check out its different versions, and see how it can supercharge your productivity. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Regarding apps, Microsoft 365 includes:
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Outlook
- OneNote
- Teams
- Access (not available in all plans)
- Publisher ( not available in all plans)
Note that Office 365 is not exactly the same as Microsoft 365. You can learn more about these two versions through the following article.
Versions of Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 comes in various versions to suit different needs. Let’s see a shorter version of the table with key features:
| Version | Target Audience | Key Features | Windows Compatibility | macOS Compatibility |
| Microsoft 365 Personal | Individual Users | Office apps, 1 TB OneDrive, Advanced Security | ✅ | ✅ |
| Microsoft 365 Family | Households (up to 6 users) | Same as Personal for multiple users, Family Safety | ✅ | ✅ |
| Microsoft 365 Business Basic | Small Businesses | Cloud-based email, Web conferencing, Collaborative Tools | ✅ | ✅ |
| Microsoft 365 Business Standard | Small to Medium Businesses | Business Basic + Desktop Office Apps | ✅ | ✅ |
| Microsoft 365 Business Premium | Businesses with Advanced Needs | Business Standard + Security, Device Management | ✅ | ✅ |
| Microsoft 365 Apps (for Enterprise) | Enterprise Users | Office apps on multiple devices, Customizable | ✅ | ✅ |
| Microsoft 365 Enterprise (various plans) | Large Organizations | Productivity, Security, Compliance, Information Protection | ✅ | ✅ |
Feature Of Microsoft 365
Alright, so here’s the lowdown on what makes Microsoft 365 so cool. It’s like a powerhouse of tools and features:
✔️Office Apps: You’ve got Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook at your fingertips. That’s your document, spreadsheet, presentation, and email sorted.
✔️Cloud Storage: Ever heard of OneDrive? It’s your cloud storage buddy, so you can access your files from anywhere, anytime.
✔️Email and Calendar: Managing emails and your schedule is a breeze with Outlook. It’s like having a personal assistant.
✔️Collaboration Tools: Microsoft Teams is your go-to for team collaboration. You can chat, have video meetings, and work together seamlessly.
✔️Security and Compliance: Microsoft 365 takes data security seriously, with built-in features to protect your stuff and keep you compliant with regulations.
✔️Customization: Make it yours. Customize templates, themes, and add-ins to fit your style.
✔️Multi-Platform: It’s friendly with both Windows and Mac, so you’re covered no matter what you’re using.
✔️Data Magic: Excel is on another level with data analysis tools. Visualize and analyze your data like a pro.
✔️Advanced Communication: For your inner communicator, Microsoft 365 offers Microsoft Teams and Skype for Business. Connect securely and get things done.
✔️Family Safety Features: If you’re on the Family version, you get cool safety features to keep your digital life safe and sound.
✔️Enterprise-Ready: Businesses, listen up. Microsoft 365 has your back with enterprise-level solutions that cover all your productivity, security, and compliance needs.
✔️AI Smarts: You’ll love the AI-driven suggestions and features that make your work smoother and faster.
Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021: What’s The Difference?
So, you’re in the market for some shiny new software to boost your productivity, and the contenders are Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021. Both are from the Microsoft family, but they’ve got their quirks.
In this part, Gosoftware is going to dig into the nitty-gritty of Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021, so you can figure out which one’s your perfect match.
Now, let’s get down to the fun part – the comparison!
Comparison:
Let’s break down the key differences with some bullet points:
Subscription vs. One-Time Purchase:
Microsoft 365 is subscription-based, meaning you pay regularly for access, while Office 2021 is a one-time purchase, giving you permanent access.
Cloud-Based vs. Local:
Microsoft 365 apps are cloud-based, allowing you to work from anywhere with an internet connection. Office 2021 apps are installed locally on your device.
Always Up-to-Date vs. Fixed Version:
Microsoft 365 apps are continuously updated with the latest features and security patches. Office 2021 remains static after purchase, with updates requiring a new purchase.
Collaboration Tools:
Microsoft 365 offers collaborative features like Microsoft Teams and online co-authoring. Office 2021 lacks these online collaboration options.
Additional Services:
Microsoft 365 includes extra services like OneDrive storage, Outlook, and access to mobile apps, which are not part of the Office 2021 package.
Device Flexibility:
Microsoft 365 is more versatile, with apps available on various devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Office 2021 is primarily for Windows and macOS.
Security and Compliance:
Microsoft 365 offers advanced security and compliance features for business and enterprise users, while Office 2021 provides basic security.
Customization:
Both suites allow customization, but Microsoft 365’s cloud-based nature allows for more flexibility in this regard.
Family and Home Plans:
Microsoft 365 offers family and home plans, making it a practical choice for households. Office 2021 doesn’t have these specific plans.
Business and Enterprise Plans:
For businesses, Microsoft 365 offers a range of tailored plans with features like email hosting and advanced security. Office 2021 is mainly for personal and small business use.
Cost: Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021
Microsoft 365:
- Microsoft 365 operates on a subscription-based model. You pay a monthly or yearly fee to access the suite, which can be more budget-friendly in the short term.
- Subscription plans come in various tiers with different features, so you can choose the one that suits your needs and budget.
- It often includes additional services like OneDrive storage and regular updates at no extra cost.
Office 2021:
- Office 2021 follows a one-time purchase model. You pay for the software once, and it’s yours to use indefinitely, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.
- However, this means you won’t receive regular updates, and if you want the latest features, you’ll need to make another one-time purchase when a new version is released.
Now, let’s summarize what was discussed above! Below is a comparison table of Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021 to help you have a clearer view of these two versions.
| Microsoft 365 | Office 2021 | |
| Core apps (Word, Excel & Powerpoint) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Outlook | ✓ | ✓ |
| Publisher | ✓ | ✓ |
| Access | ✓ | ✓ |
| OneNote | ✓ | ✓ |
| Teams | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ink Tools | ✓ | ✓ |
| Excel Functions | ✓ | ✓ |
| Motion Graphics (PowerPoint) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Performance | Fast | Fast |
| Support Period | requires an annual or monthly subscription | 2026 |
| Price | Depends on package | one-time purchase |
Pros of Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021
These points outline the advantages of Microsoft Office 2021, such as its one-time purchase model, permanent software ownership, and independence from subscription fees and forced updates, making it an attractive choice for users who prefer a static and cost-effective solution.
| Aspect | Microsoft Office 2021 | Microsoft 365 |
| One-Time Purchase | ✅ (No recurring costs) | ❎ (Subscription-based) |
| Permanent Software | ✅ (Yours forever) | ❎ (Subscription model) |
| Offline Availability | ✅ (No constant internet required) | ✅ (Cloud-based, works offline) |
| No Subscription Fees | ✅ (No ongoing payments) | ❎ (Requires subscription) |
| No Forced Updates | ✅ (Updates by choice) | ❎ (Frequent updates, mandatory) |
Cons of Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021
So you just go through on some benefits of Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021. It’s time for another side. Gosoftware will go with you in the cons of Microsoft Office 2021.
And you will have a deep view when compared to Microsoft 365. While Office 2021 has its advantages, there are some limitations worth considering.
| Aspect | Microsoft Office 2021 | Microsoft 365 |
| Limited Collaboration | ❎ (Lacks online collaboration features) | ✅ (Strong online collaboration) |
| No Extra Services | ❎ (No additional services like OneDrive storage) | ✅ (Includes extra services) |
| No Access to Mobile Apps | ❎ (Limited mobile access) | ✅ (Access to mobile apps) |
| No Continuous Updates | ❎ (Updates require purchasing new versions) | ✅ (Continuous updates included) |
| Less Versatile for Business | ❎ (Limited business features) | ✅ (Tailored business plans) |
Conclusion
The Microsoft 365 vs. Office 2021 showdown, the choice is yours to make. If you’re looking for a timeless, one-time purchase with no recurring costs, Office 2021 is your go-to. However, if you crave constant updates, online collaboration, and extra services, Microsoft 365 is the champion.
The decision rests in your hands, matching your unique needs and preferences. It’s all about finding the software that elevates your productivity and makes work a breeze. The choice is yours to make, and with Gosoftware by your side, you’re equipped to make the right call!