Is Microsoft Office a one time purchase?

Answered by Michael Wilson

Microsoft Office 2021 is indeed a one-time purchase. This means that you only need to pay a single, up-front cost to get the Office apps for one computer. Whether you are using a PC or a Mac, you can take advantage of this option.

The benefit of a one-time purchase is that you don’t have to worry about monthly or annual subscription fees. Instead, you pay once and have access to the Office apps indefinitely. This can be a great option for individuals or businesses who prefer to have a one-time expense rather than an ongoing subscription.

However, it’s important to note that with a one-time purchase, there are no upgrade options available. This means that if a new version of Office is released in the future, you will have to buy it at full price if you want to upgrade. This is different from the subscription-based Office 365, where you have access to the latest version of Office as long as your subscription is active.

The lack of upgrade options can be a downside for some users, especially those who like to stay up to date with the latest features and improvements. If you’re someone who wants to upgrade to the next major release of Office, you’ll need to be prepared to purchase it at its full price when it becomes available.

In my personal experience, I have found the one-time purchase option to be suitable for my needs. I don’t necessarily need the latest version of Office as soon as it’s released, so the one-time purchase allows me to save money in the long run. I can continue using the version I have until I feel the need for an upgrade.

To summarize, Microsoft Office 2021 is indeed a one-time purchase, available for both PCs and Macs. While it offers the advantage of a single up-front cost and no subscription fees, it does not provide upgrade options to future versions. It’s important to consider your preferences and needs before deciding between a one-time purchase or a subscription-based option like Office 365.