Office 2024 is a one-time purchase of a specific version. Microsoft 365 is a subscription with a term. Start with the applications you need, the devices you use and whether ongoing feature updates matter to you.
The main differences
| Compare | Office 2024 | Microsoft 365 |
|---|---|---|
| Payment | One-time purchase | Time-limited subscription |
| Applications | Depend on edition and operating system | Depend on the selected plan |
| Future versions | The next paid release is not automatically included | New features while the subscription is active |
Where should you start?
If you mainly work on one computer and want a fixed version, start with perpetual Office licences. Check the included apps, operating system and permitted device count. A Windows edition is not a Mac edition.
If you switch between devices or want subscription services, compare the Microsoft 365 offers. Decide how many people need access first. User count and device count describe different things.
An invitation is different from a product key
The Family invitation for one person is neither an activation code nor a whole Family subscription for several people. It provides one place through an invitation. The Single edition with a code uses a different redemption process. Check the term, requirements and included benefits on the offer itself.
Before ordering
- List your applications and operating system.
- Count users and devices separately.
- Read the activation method, term and usage conditions.
- For a one-time purchase, keep the appropriate Office 2024 installation guide ready.
Common questions
Does a perpetual licence mean updates forever?
No. Usage duration and the support period are different. Check the support information for the specific version.
Which price applies?
The linked product page shows the current price and available variants. Compare offers with the same scope.
Microsoft: Microsoft 365 / Office 2024
· MYKEYS24