Difference Between Office 2021 Professional Plus and Microsoft 365 Pro Plus

Microsoft offers two main options for users seeking its Office suite: Office 2021 Professional Plus and Microsoft 365 Pro Plus (also known as Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise). Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which suits your needs best.

Office 2021 Professional Plus is a perpetual license that allows you to download and install the full suite of Office applications on your device. It does not include additional cloud-based services and updates are not included. On the other hand, Microsoft 365 Pro Plus is a subscription-based service that provides access to the latest version of Office applications, along with additional cloud-based services such as One Drive storage and Microsoft Teams. With Microsoft 365 Pro Plus, you also receive regular updates and new features as they become available. Both options have their advantages, so consider your specific requirements and preferences before making a decision.

Office 2021 Professional Plus

1. One-Time Purchase

• Office 2021 Professional Plus is a one-time purchase, meaning you own it permanently without ongoing costs. Ideal for users preferring stability without subscription fees.

2. Local Installation and Offline Use

• The software installs directly on your device, making it usable offline after installation. This approach appeals to users who may not need cloud access.

3. Applications Included

• The suite includes essential tools like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher, Access, and Skype for Business.

4. Limited Updates

• Office 2021 Pro Plus receives only security updates and bug fixes. It does not get new feature updates, as these are reserved for later Office versions.

5. Device-Based Licensing

• Office 2021 is licensed per device, meaning it’s tied to the specific computer on which it’s installed.

Microsoft 365 Pro Plus

1. Subscription Model

• Microsoft 365 Pro Plus operates on a subscription basis, with monthly or annual payments. This option offers flexibility for those interested in frequent updates and support.

2. Cloud Integration and Accessibility

• Microsoft 365 Pro Plus includes cloud services through One Drive, allowing for real-time collaboration and access from any device connected to the internet.

3. Comprehensive Application Suite

• Beyond the standard Office apps, 365 Pro Plus includes Teams, Exchange, SharePoint, and other online services that enhance team collaboration.

4. Continuous Updates

• Subscribers receive both security updates and regular feature updates as they become available, ensuring that users always have the latest tools and functionality.

5. User-Based Licensing

• Microsoft 365 Pro Plus is licensed per user, with each user permitted to install Office apps on multiple devices, such as PCs, Macs, tablets, and phones.

Summary of Key Differences

Choosing between Office 2021 Professional Plus and Microsoft 365 Pro Plus depends on your preferences. If you prefer a stable one-time purchase, Office 2021 is ideal. For users who value cloud integration and constant updates, Microsoft 365 Pro Plus offers a better solution.