In the ever-evolving landscape of productivity software, Microsoft Office has long been a cornerstone for businesses and individuals alike. Since its initial release in 1990, Office has undergone numerous iterations, adapting to changing technological landscapes and user needs. In recent years, Microsoft has shifted its focus towards cloud-based subscription services with Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365). However, recognizing that not all users prefer or require a subscription model, Microsoft continues to offer standalone versions of its popular productivity suite.
In this article, we’ll explore the features, pricing, and significance of Office 2024, and how it fits into Microsoft’s broader strategy for productivity software.
Office 2024: What’s Included
Microsoft has released Office 2024 for small businesses and consumers who want a standalone version without a Microsoft 365 subscription. This new version includes:
- Updated versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook
- Versions for both Windows and macOS systems
- A “locked-in-time” feature set, meaning these applications won’t receive feature updates like their Microsoft 365 counterparts
For a comparison between Office 2024 and Microsoft 365, see our article on Office 2024 vs. Microsoft 365: Which is Right for You?
System Requirements and Connectivity
Office 2024 comes with some specific requirements:
- A Microsoft account is required
- An internet connection is necessary, likely for installation and updates
- Runs on Windows 10 and 11
- Compatible with the three most recent macOS versions
For detailed system requirements, visit the official Microsoft Office system requirements page.
Editions and Pricing
Starting this Tuesday, two editions of Office 2024 are available from Microsoft.com and retailers worldwide:
- Office Home 2024:
- Price: $149.99
- Includes: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote
- For one PC or Mac
- Office Home & Business 2024:
- Price: $249.99
- Includes: Everything in Office Home 2024 plus Outlook
- Comes with commercial use rights
To understand which edition might be right for you, check our guide on Choosing the Right Office 2024 Edition for Your Needs.
New Features and Improvements
Office 2024 brings several improvements and user interface changes compared to its predecessor, Office 2021:
- A new default theme using Fluent Design principles for an intuitive, familiar experience across all Office apps
- Support for the OpenDocument format (ODF) 1.4
- Faster Excel workbooks, reducing delays and hang-ups
- Closed captions for video and audio embedded in presentations
- Improved email, calendars, and contacts search
For a deep dive into the new features, see our comprehensive Office 2024 New Features Explained article.
The Significance of Standalone Versions
While Microsoft has been pushing its subscription-based Microsoft 365 service, the release of Office 2024 demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing options for different user needs:
- Catering to users who prefer one-time purchases over recurring subscriptions
- Providing a solution for environments with limited internet connectivity
- Offering a stable, unchanging feature set for users who don’t require constant updates
For more on the pros and cons of standalone vs. subscription software, read our analysis on Software Licensing Models: Standalone vs. Subscription.
Conclusion
The release of Office 2024 reaffirms Microsoft’s commitment to providing flexible solutions for a diverse user base. While the company continues to innovate with its cloud-based Microsoft 365 offerings, the availability of a standalone Office version ensures that users with specific needs or preferences are not left behind.
As productivity software continues to evolve, the choice between standalone and subscription models will likely remain an important consideration for businesses and individuals alike. Office 2024 stands as a robust option for those seeking a traditional licensing model with updated features and improved performance.
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