Looking for a cost-effective way to access Microsoft Office without recurring fees? You are not alone. Many people prefer the simplicity of a one-time purchase, which offers permanent access to all the Office tools you need. However, where can you find a reliable source for this Microsoft Office one-time purchase? Furthermore, is it more economical than opting for a subscription-based model? This article guides you through these questions, providing clear and useful information for your decision-making journey.
One-Time Purchase Vs. Subscription
Choosing the right office software can be easy. You have two main options with Microsoft: a one-time purchase or a subscription plan called Microsoft 365. A one-time purchase gives you permanent access to a specific software version. The Microsoft 365 subscription updates you with the latest featuresandextra tools and works on multiple devices. Your decision depends on your budget, whether you want the newest features, and how many devices you use.
These are the main differences between Microsoft Office One-Time Purchase and Subscription:
Software Updates And Upgrades
One-Time Purchase
With a one-time purchase of Microsoft Office, users receive a perpetual license for the version of the software they bought. This means they will not receive new features or major upgrades to the software, although they will still receive security updates.
Subscription (Microsoft 365)
Subscribers always have access to the latest features, improvements, and major upgrades at no additional cost. Their software is updated regularly with the newest capabilities.
Cost And Payment Structure
One-Time Purchase
Users pay a one-time fee and can use the software indefinitely on one computer. There are no recurring payments.
Subscription (Microsoft 365):
The service is billed regularly, monthly, or yearly, depending on the user's choice. The subscription covers use on multiple devices (up to six), making it more versatile for those with several devices.
Access To Additional Features And Tools
One-Time Purchase
Generally includes standard software features such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook but lacks advanced features like cloud storage and certain collaborative tools.
Subscription (Microsoft 365)
Offers additional benefits such as 1TB of OneDrive cloud storage, ongoing technical support, and access to extra tools and features like Microsoft Teams.
Device Compatibility
One-Time Purchase
The license is for one computer, and the software does not sync across devices.
Subscription (Microsoft 365)
Allows seamless use across multiple devices, including PCs, Macs, tablets, and phones. One account can be accessed by up to six devices simultaneously.
Technical Support
One-Time Purchase
Offers limited technical support, primarily focused on installation issues.
Subscription (Microsoft 365)
Comes with extensive technical support at no extra cost, covering a wide range of issues from technical to billing support.
Opt For One-Time Purchase When?
Budget is a Concern
The one-time purchase option is more straightforward and predictable if you prefer paying a one-time fee and avoiding recurring costs.
Limited Needs
It is a cost-effective option if you only need the basic Office applications and do not require advanced features or multiple-device support.
Long-Term Use
If you plan to use the same version of Office for many years without needing regular updates or new features, the one-time purchase can be more economical in the long run.
Opt For Subscription (Microsoft 365) When?
Multiple Devices
A subscription plan offers more flexibility if you use multiple devices or have a family that needs access to various devices.
Need For Latest Features
If you want to always have the latest features and updates, a subscription ensures that you are always running the most current version of the apps.
Cloud And Collaboration:
If you need cloud storage, collaboration tools, and other advanced features, Microsoft 365 is the way to go.
Business Use
The subscription plan is often the most practical and efficient option for businesses, especially those requiring regular communication and collaboration among team members.
Reliable Sources To Buy Microsoft Office Lifetime License
Buying a genuine Microsoft Office Lifetime License ensures you get a legitimate product with access to all features, updates, and customer support. Below are steps on buying a lifetime license (one-time purchase) for Microsoft Office from the official Microsoft website and other authorized retailers like Best Buy and Amazon.
Microsoft Official Website
Microsoft's official website is the safest and most reliable source for buying a Microsoft Office Lifetime License. When you buy directly from Microsoft, you know you get a legitimate product with full customer support.
Follow these simple steps to buy from Microsoft's Official Website:
Step 1: Visit the official Microsoft website. Click on the 'Office' tab in the top menu.
Step 2: Look for the ‘Buy Office 2019’ or 'Buy Office 2021' or equivalent. It is a lifetime license, a one-time purchase option, instead of the Microsoft 365 subscription service.
Step 3: Decide which package is best for you. There are usually different packages for Home & Student, Home & Business, etc.
Step 4: Once you’ve decided on a package, click 'Buy' and checkout. Complete the purchase by going to the payment page.
Step 5: After purchase, you can download the software directly from Microsoft and install it on your computer.
Step 6: After installation, activate the product with the key you received upon purchase. You are all set.
Best Buy
Best Buy is a well-known electronics retailer in the United States, and Canada authorized to sell Microsoft software. They offer both physical copies (DVD or USB) and digital downloads.
Follow these simple steps to buy from Best Buy:
Step 1: Visit the Best Buy website or a physical Best Buy store.
Step 2: Use the search bar for ‘Microsoft Office Lifetime,’ 'Microsoft 365,' or 'Office 2021'.
Step 3: Choose the package you want and proceed to checkout. Complete the payment.
Step 4: After purchase, you should receive a product key, either physically (if purchased in-store) or via email (if purchased online).
Step 5: Use the key to activate your Microsoft Office after downloading and installing it from Microsoft’s website or the disc, if it comes with one.
Amazon
Amazon is a trusted global retailer that sells both physical copies and digital downloads of Microsoft Office from Microsoft itself or authorized third-party sellers. Ensure the listing specifies that it is sold by Microsoft or an authorized retailer to ensure you get a genuine product.
Follow these simple steps to buy from Amazon:
Step 1: Go to Amazon’s website.
[alt = ‘Microsoft Office One-Time Purchase’]
Step 2: Use the search bar to look for ‘Microsoft Office Lifetime,’ 'Office 2019', or 'Office 2021'.
Step 3: Be sure the product is 'Sold by' Amazon or a reputable, authorized third-party seller. Avoid sellers with low ratings or few reviews.
Step 4: Choose the package you want and proceed to checkout. Complete the payment.
Step 5: You should receive a product key, usually via email after purchase.
Step 6: Use the key to activate your Microsoft Office after downloading and installing it from Microsoft’s website.
Important Tips
Always ensure you purchase from a reputable, authorized retailer. Many counterfeit versions of Microsoft Office are sold at significantly lower prices, but they are illegal and potentially harmful to your computer.
Keep Your Product Key Safe. That is your proof of purchase and will be required if you need to reinstall the software or move it to a new computer.
Check Compatibility Before Purchase. Make sure that the version of Microsoft Office you are purchasing is compatible with your operating system.
Best Alternative To Microsoft Office - WPS Office
WPS Office, established in 1989 by Kingsoft Office Software, is a versatile software suite offering a compelling alternative to Microsoft Office. With over 500 million users worldwide and a strong Trustpilot rating of 4.8 from 880 reviews, it has proven a reliable and user-friendly choice.
Core Functionalities
WPS Office includes a writer, spreadsheet, presentation tool, and PDF editor. These tools are designed as alternatives to Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe Acrobat PDF editors. Notably, the writer, spreadsheet, and presentation tools are free to use without requiring advertisements or registration.
Economical PDF Editing
WPS Office's PDF editor is free for basic functions like reading, annotation, and conversion. For advanced functions such as editing and scanning, it charges only $29 a year. This is significantly more affordable than most PDF editor products on the market.
Rich Template Store
With WPS Office, you can choose from various free and paid templates for Word, PowerPoint, and Excel documents. This extensive collection facilitates the creation of professional and attractive documents with minimal effort.
Lightweight And Compatible
The software is light, with a product size of only 200MB, ensuring that it occupies minimal computer memory. WPS Office is compatible with Windows 7, 10, and 11 operating systems.
Multi-Platform Synchronization
WPS Office supports Linux, Android, iOS, and online documents via WPS AirPage, offering seamless multi-person collaborative editing. Users can sync all their files across different devices by logging into a single account.
Security And Stability
WPS Office is known for its stability and rarely crashes. It prioritizes user privacy and security, adding an extra layer of trust for its users.
FAQs
What’s The Difference Between Microsoft 365 Plans For Home Or Business?
Microsoft 365 Business plans are designed for companies, offering advanced security, collaboration tools, and business applications. In contrast, Microsoft 365 Family and Personal plans are tailored for individual or home use, providing core Office applications and cloud storage for personal projects and school activities.
Is A One-Time Purchase Compatible With Both Windows And Mac?
Yes, a one-time Office Home & Business 2021 or Office Home & Student 2021 purchase is compatible with Windows and Mac. These versions are available for a single upfront payment and can be installed on either operating system, allowing users to choose based on their preference or existing hardware.
Summary
The article compares the two options for accessing Microsoft Office One-Time Purchase: a one-time purchase and a Microsoft 365 subscription. A one-time purchase offers permanent access to a specific version of Office, while a subscription provides continuous updates and compatibility across multiple devices. The choice depends on factors like budget, the need for updated features, and device usage.
As an alternative to Microsoft Office, the article highlights WPS Office, a cost-effective suite with over 500 million global users. WPS Office offers free tools comparable to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and a PDF editor with basic functions for free and advanced features at an affordable price ($29 a year). It also provides a rich template store, making it a user-friendly and economical alternative to Microsoft Office products.
