When you need Word, Excel and PowerPoint, two main options come up: Office versions that you buy once and use indefinitely, and the yearly renewed Microsoft 365 subscription. Although both include the same programs, their operating logic is quite different. In this article, we clarify which one suits you.
One-time Office licenses (2016, 2019, 2021, 2024)
Versions such as Office 2021 and Office 2024 are purchased once and work indefinitely on the computer where they are installed. There are no yearly payments.
- Pros: No extra payment, and it works fully even without an internet connection.
- Cons: New features are not added; it only receives security updates, and these also have an end date.
Microsoft is ending support for older versions one by one; support for Office 2016 and 2019 has already ended. If you are making a new installation, Office 2024 is the most logical choice since it has the longest support period. If compatibility with older systems is required, Office 2021 is still a viable option.
Microsoft 365 subscription
Microsoft 365 offers Office applications under a subscription model and, depending on the plan, also includes cloud services:
- The applications are always on the latest version; new features arrive automatically.
- Depending on the plan, OneDrive cloud storage (1 TB in most plans) is included.
- It can be used on computer, tablet and phone with the same account.
Office 365 1 Year, Office 365 Personalized and Office 365 E3 + 1 TB OneDrive in our store are examples of this model.
Comparison table
| Feature | Office 2021 / 2024 | Microsoft 365 |
|---|---|---|
| Payment | One-time | Subscription |
| New features | Not included | Continuously added |
| Cloud storage | None | Depends on plan (usually 1 TB) |
| Multiple devices | Depends on license type | Computer + mobile |
| Offline use | Full | Full (periodic sign-in verification required) |
Which one is for whom?
Buy one-time Office if…
- You use Word and Excel at a basic level,
- You do not need cloud storage,
- You will be working on a single computer for a long time.
Buy Microsoft 365 if…
- You want to access your files from different devices,
- You work on the same document simultaneously with your team members,
- You always want to use the latest features.
Do I need Visio and Project?
Visio is for those who draw flowcharts and diagrams, and Project is for those who plan projects. Both are separately licensed applications and are not included in the standard Office suite. If you need them, you can find them separately in the Software Licenses category.
Conclusion
For simple, long-term use, Office 2024 is the right choice; for those who want cloud access and multiple devices, Microsoft 365 is the right choice. Whichever you choose, at LisansX your key or account information is delivered instantly after payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a big difference between Office 2024 and Office 2021?
The core applications are the same; Office 2024 offers newer features, updated interface improvements and longer security update support. If you are making a new installation, 2024 is the longer-lasting choice.
Can I use Office without an internet connection?
Yes. Once activated, one-time Office versions work completely offline. Microsoft 365 also works offline; however, it needs to connect to the internet at regular intervals to verify the subscription.
Can I use Office on a Mac?
Microsoft 365 accounts can also be used with Mac. The Windows and Mac versions of one-time keys are different; before purchasing, check on the product page which operating system the key is valid for.
