Microsoft Officially Launches Office 2024: Buy-Once, Use-Forever Version Continues

Microsoft is pushing hard to get its users to adopt Microsoft 365 subscriptions/ Microsoft Office 2024, but to the company’s credit, they’ve continued to offer buy-once, use-forever versions of their flagship software. This week, Microsoft officially launched Office 2024, providing an updated “locked-in-time” version of popular apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for those who prefer to avoid the continuously updated Microsoft 365 model.

Here’s everything you need to know about the new Office 2024 suite, its pricing, features, and what you are getting for your money.

What Does Microsoft Office 2024 Offer?

 

For users who don’t want to subscribe to Microsoft 365, Office 2024 offers an attractive alternative. Like previous standalone releases, this version includes updated core apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. The software provides a perpetual license, meaning users can buy the suite once and use it forever without needing to pay a subscription fee.

Here’s a breakdown of the main versions available for home users

 

Office Home 2024

This version includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote and is priced at $149.99 for a single PC or Mac.

Office Home & Business 2024

 

For $249.99, this version adds Outlook and provides rights for commercial use, making it suitable for small business owners or entrepreneurs.

For businesses and organizations, Microsoft is also offering new Office Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) products. These versions are intended for environments that prioritize stability and security over receiving the latest feature updates. Office LTSC 2024 includes apps like Access, Project 2024, and Visio 2024 as standalone products.

What’s New in Microsoft Office 2024?

 

Office 2024 is essentially a frozen-in-time version of Microsoft Office, incorporating updates and new features that have been added since the release of Office 2021. While the core functionality remains the same, users will see improvements across the suite in areas like,

Performance optimizations for modern PCs and Macs.

New tools and templates in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Enhanced security features, particularly for businesses using Office LTSC.

However, it’s important to note that Office 2024 does not include ongoing feature updates like the ones received by Microsoft 365 users. This means no continuous improvement or new tools will be added after its release. Additionally, the AI-powered Copilot assistant, which has been a significant focus in Microsoft 365’s recent updates, is not available in Office 2024.

What Are the Drawbacks of Office 2024?

 

While Office 2024 offers a more cost-effective solution for users who prefer not to subscribe, there are a few limitations to be aware of,

1. No real-time collaboration

 

Unlike Microsoft 365, Office 24 lacks features that enable real-time editing and collaboration across teams.

2. No AI Copilot

 

The Copilot AI assistant, which helps automate tasks and provides smart suggestions, is missing from this version.

3. No ongoing feature updates

Once you purchase Office 24, the feature set is locked. There will be no new tools or capabilities added, though Microsoft will continue to provide bug fixes and security updates until October 9, 2029.

For users who rely heavily on real-time collaboration or want access to the latest features as soon as they are released, Microsoft 365 may still be the better option. However, if you prefer stability and dislike recurring subscription fees, Office 24 is an appealing alternative.

Compatibility and Support

 

Microsoft Office 24 is designed to be compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11. However, users should note that support for Windows 10 will officially end on October 14, 2025, after which Microsoft will no longer provide updates for that operating system. Mac users can also run Office 24, but it only supports the three most recent versions of macOS which currently includes macOS 13 Ventura, macOS 14 Sonoma, and macOS 15 Sequoia.

Additionally, using Office 24 requires a Microsoft account and an Internet connection for activation and periodic updates, even though it is a perpetually licensed version.

Why Choose Office 2024?

 

There are several reasons why users may still prefer the standalone version of Microsoft Office

1. One-time cost

 

Office 2024’s buy-once, use-forever model means users pay a single upfront fee, without needing to worry about ongoing subscription payments.

2. Long-term support

 

Microsoft will continue to support Office 24 with security updates for five years, providing users with peace of mind until October 2029.

3. Stable software

 

For users and businesses that prioritize stability and do not want to deal with frequent updates or new features, Office 24 provides a consistent, unchanging version of the software.

Future Outlook for Standalone Microsoft Office Versions

Interestingly, Microsoft Office 24 will not be the final standalone version of Office. Microsoft has committed to releasing at least one more perpetually licensed version of Office, with hints that we could see Office 2027 or even additional standalone releases after that. This is good news for users who still prefer the traditional ownership model over the subscription-based Microsoft 365.

My Final Thoughts

 

Microsoft Office 24 represents the company’s continued commitment to providing users with alternatives to the subscription model. While it may lack some of the modern conveniences of Microsoft 365, such as AI assistance and real-time collaboration, Office 24 is a solid choice for those who prefer stability, a one-time purchase, and long-term security updates.

If you are someone who values a buy-once, use-forever model and doesn’t need cutting-edge collaboration features, Office 2024 is worth considering. With its launch this week, Microsoft is keeping traditional software ownership alive while still catering to the growing subscription market.

 

FAQs

 

Q: What is the price of Microsoft Office 2024?

A: The Office Home 2024 version costs $149.99, and Office Home & Business 2024 costs $249.99. Both versions are available for a single PC or Mac.

Q: Does Office 2024 include the Copilot AI assistant?

A: No, the Copilot AI assistant is only available in Microsoft 365. Office 2024 does not include AI-powered features.

Q: How long will Microsoft support Office 2024?

A: Microsoft will provide bug fixes and security updates for Office 2024 until October 9, 2029.

Q: Can I use Office 2024 on Windows 10?

A: Yes, Office 2024 is compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11, but support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025.

 

What do you think?

 

Do you prefer the traditional buy-once model of Microsoft Office, or are you more inclined towards a subscription-based service like Microsoft 365?

Is real-time collaboration an essential feature for you in productivity software?

Will you be upgrading to Office 2024, or are you satisfied with a previous version?