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Feb 15, 2026
Microsoft Excel 2019 Free Download [Full Version]Get Excel 2019 free download on Windows or Mac with this step-by-step guide. Discover legal methods, safe tips, and free modern alternatives.
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Microsoft Excel 2021 Free Download
Perpetual LicenseOne-Time Purchase4.8 (User Rating)
Download the official the Microsoft Excel 2021 free download for Windows and Mac. This is the latest perpetual release with new features like XLOOKUP and Dynamic Arrays. Important: Activation requires a purchased 25-digit product key. For a powerful and free alternative, we recommend downloading WPS Spreadsheets.
Secure Download • For Windows 10/11
W
Best Free Alternative
WPS Spreadsheets (Free)
Fully compatible with Excel files. No product key needed.
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About Microsoft Excel 2021
Microsoft Excel 2021 is the latest standalone version of Excel available through a one-time purchase. It includes significant upgrades over Excel 2019, such as the powerful XLOOKUP function, Dynamic Arrays, the LET function, and XMATCH. It's designed for users and small businesses who prefer to buy software outright rather than pay for a subscription.
While Excel 2021 is powerful, it does not receive the continuous feature updates or have the advanced real-time collaboration tools found in the Microsoft 365 version of Excel. For users seeking a cost-effective solution with robust features and excellent compatibility, the free WPS Spreadsheets is an outstanding alternative. To compare all Excel download options, visit Microsoft Excel Free Download for a complete guide across all versions and platforms.
Can You Still Use Excel 2021 in 2026?
If you already own and have activated Excel 2021, it continues to run on Windows 10, Windows 11, and supported macOS versions. Microsoft still provides security updates for Office 2021, but no new feature upgrades beyond what shipped with the perpetual release.
Excel 2021 remains a solid choice for users who prefer a one-time purchase over a subscription. However, those who need the latest AI tools, continuous feature updates, or seamless cloud collaboration will find Microsoft 365 or a free alternative like WPS Spreadsheets more practical in 2026.
File Information
Version
Excel 2021
License Type
Perpetual (Product Key Required)
Platform
Windows & macOS
OS Requirement
Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS
Total Downloads (Alternative)
15,721,830
Developer
Microsoft
Complete Guide to Microsoft Excel 2021
Microsoft Excel 2021 represents a major step forward for users who prefer a non-subscription software model. It's packed with a subset of features that were previously exclusive to Microsoft 365 subscribers, making it a compelling upgrade from Excel 2019 or older versions.
The key to getting Excel 2021 is purchasing a legitimate license. This provides you with a product key and access to the official installer. Unlike subscription services, you pay once and own it forever. However, this also means you miss out on the continuous stream of new features and AI enhancements that Microsoft 365 users receive. For those who need a powerful, modern spreadsheet tool without the cost, the free WPS Spreadsheets is a highly recommended, fully compatible alternative.
Why You Should Avoid Third-Party Downloads
Because Microsoft no longer prominently lists Excel 2021 on its homepage, some users turn to unofficial sites. These sources often promise free copies but may deliver malware, outdated builds, or modified installers. Sticking to official Microsoft channels is the only safe approach.
Key New Features in Excel 2021
- XLOOKUP FunctionThe successor to VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP. It's more flexible and easier to use for finding things in a table or range by row.
- Dynamic ArraysWrite one formula and have it return an array of values that "spill" into neighboring cells. Includes new functions like FILTER, SORT, UNIQUE, and SEQUENCE.
- LET FunctionAssigns names to calculation results, allowing you to store intermediate calculations or values inside a formula, improving performance and readability.
- Improved CollaborationShared workbooks and threaded comments let teams work together more efficiently, with clearer feedback directly inside the spreadsheet.
Comparison: Excel 2021 vs. WPS Spreadsheets (Free)
| Feature | Excel 2021 | WPS Spreadsheets (Free) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | One-time purchase | Free |
| Product Key | Required | Not Required |
| Feature Updates | No | Yes, Regular |
| Compatibility (.xlsx) | Native | High Compatibility |
| AI Features | Basic | Advanced (WPS AI) |
| File Format Support | .xls, .xlsx | .xls, .xlsx, .csv, more |
| Cloud Collaboration | Limited | Yes, real-time |
| Templates | Limited | Hundreds free |
| Platform Availability | Windows, Mac | Win, Mac, Android, iOS, Web |
| Installation Size | Larger | Lightweight |
Verdict: Excel 2021 can handle professional spreadsheets, but WPS Spreadsheets feels less demanding on your system, offers broader file compatibility, and costs nothing — making it the better everyday choice for most users in 2026.
WPS Spreadsheet — Standout Features
Among free alternatives, WPS Spreadsheet offers the closest experience to Excel 2021 without any licensing cost. Key capabilities include:
Smart Data Tools
Formulas, pivot tables, charts, and auto-fill built in — everything you expect from a modern spreadsheet.
Full Excel Compatibility
Open, edit, and save .xls and .xlsx files without messing up formatting or data.
Built-in PDF Export
Convert spreadsheets directly into PDFs with full layout control — no extra apps needed.
Ready-to-Use Templates
Budgets, calendars, schedules, and more — free templates that speed up setup.
How to Install Excel 2021
- Purchase a License: Buy a genuine product key for Excel 2021 or the full Office 2021 suite from the Microsoft Store or an authorized partner.
- Redeem & Download: Sign in to your Microsoft account at office.com/setup, enter your product key, and download the official installer.
- Run the Installer: Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions. The installation is largely automatic.
- Activate Your Product: Open Excel. You may be prompted to sign in to the Microsoft account linked to your key to complete the activation process.
Deploy via Office Customization Tool (Volume License)
Organizations with a volume license can deploy Excel 2021 using Microsoft's Office Deployment Tool (ODT) and the Office Customization Tool at config.office.com.
1
Open the Office Customization Tool and select your system architecture (x64 for most modern PCs, x32 for older 32-bit systems).
2
Choose Office LTSC Professional Plus 2021 – Volume License as the product suite.
3
Set language to Match Operating System, then click Export to download your configuration file.
4
Download the Office Deployment Tool from Microsoft, extract it, and place your configuration file in the same folder.
5
Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: setup.exe /configure Configuration.xml
Free Microsoft Excel Online
Microsoft offers a free browser-based version of Excel through Microsoft 365 on the web. It requires no installation and lets you create, view, and edit spreadsheets directly in your browser — a legal option when you do not have a desktop license.
1
Go to Microsoft 365 Online and sign in with your Microsoft account.
2
Open Excel Online and create a new blank workbook or upload an existing file.
3
Edit and save your spreadsheet online, or download a copy to your device when finished.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I download Excel 2021?
You must first purchase a license. After buying, you can download the installer from your official Microsoft account page. There is no legal way to download the full version for free.
Is Excel 2021 free?
No. Excel 2021 is a commercial product that requires a one-time purchase. For a free spreadsheet program, consider using WPS Spreadsheets, which offers excellent compatibility and features.
Is Excel 2021 a good choice in 2026?
It's a good choice if you strongly prefer a one-time purchase and don't need the very latest features or cloud collaboration. For most users, a subscription to Microsoft 365 or using a free tool like WPS Office is more flexible.
Can I upgrade from Excel 2019 to Excel 2021 for free?
No, Microsoft does not offer a free upgrade path from one perpetual version to another. You must purchase Excel 2021 as a new product.
What are the main differences between WPS Spreadsheets and Excel 2021?
WPS is free, cloud-integrated, and continuously updated. Excel 2021 is a one-time purchase, but it lacks future feature updates and requires manual installation.
Does WPS Spreadsheets support Excel file formats?
Yes. You can open, edit, and save .xls, .xlsx, and .csv files in WPS without losing formatting or data.
Can I use WPS Spreadsheets offline?
Yes. Once installed, WPS Spreadsheets works fully offline without requiring an internet connection.
Is it safe to download Excel 2021 from third-party sites?
No. Unofficial sources may contain malware or tampered installers. Always download from Microsoft's official website, and scan files before opening.
Is WPS Spreadsheets suitable for professionals?
Definitely. It works well for freelancers, accountants, small business teams, and educators who need reliable spreadsheet tools without subscription fees.
Bottom Line
Excel 2021 remains dependable for users who already own it, but it is a static program with no future feature updates beyond security patches. For those without a license, WPS Spreadsheets delivers comparable core functionality — formulas, charts, file compatibility, and cross-platform support — without the upfront cost or security risks of unofficial downloads.
System Requirements
Processor1.6 GHz, 2-core processor
OSWindows 10 or later / macOS Monterey or later
Memory4 GB RAM (64-bit), 2 GB (32-bit)
Storage4 GB available disk space
Display1280 × 768 resolution
Modern requirements for a fully supported, secure application.
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Guides & Tutorials
![Free Download Microsoft Excel 2016 [Step-by-step Guide]](https://res-academy.cache.wpscdn.com/upload/seo-engine-admin/2026-03-06/ab15d8fae75fffd54402b172d5853669.png)
Jan 10, 2026
Free Download Microsoft Excel 2016 [Step-by-step Guide]Here is a step-by-step guide to Microsoft Excel 2016 free download. We have also given details about some best alternatives to Microsoft Excel 2016.
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Mar 05, 2026
Microsoft Excel 2021 Free Download GuideGet the Microsoft Excel 2021 free download with this updated 2026 guide. Learn how to install it safely or explore the best free alternative.
Read moreTop Free Alternative
WPS Office All-in-One
Why pay for the Excel 2021 free download? Get a complete, modern office suite that's fully compatible with all Microsoft formats for free. Experience a lightweight, powerful, and secure solution.
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Compatible with Microsoft Excel
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