Google Docs may have popularity, but when it comes to features, there are still good reasons to prefer Microsoft's free Office web apps.

Users can get lifetime licence to the suite of apps – so long as they can do without want updates or collaboration

Microsoft Office 2024, the latest version of the well known office suite, is now available for both individuals and businesses. Unlike the subscription based Microsoft 365, this version can be purchased with a lifetime license and used offline, without requiring an internet connection.

Microsoft has released Office 2024 for small businesses and consumers who want a standalone version without a Microsoft 365 subscription.

For the first time since 2021, the Office suite is available as a standalone, one-time purchase. Here's everything new in Office 2024.

This won't be the final perpetually licensed version of Office; Microsoft has said we'll get at least one more standalone release. This is the same language the company used when releasing Office 2021, so we could get additional standalone releases beyond a hypothetical Office 2027 as well.

In short, Microsoft 365 is a subscription-based service, while Office 2024 requires a one-off purchase. Here are some more specific details. Microsoft 365 Personal is a subscription-based package, and costs $6.99 a month or $69.99 a year. There is no upfront cost other than your first subscription payment.

Many familiar Microsoft apps are now available without a subscription in the Office 2024 Suite. It is cheaper in the long run, but also offers fewer features.