Key Highlights
- One-time purchase of the classic Office apps: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- Offers a perpetual license, meaning you pay once and use it indefinitely.
- Includes access to essential features and updates for the 2021 version.
- Compatible with macOS, providing a familiar user experience on Mac devices.
- Suitable for individuals and small businesses who prefer a one-time purchase over subscriptions.
- Lacks the continuous updates and cloud features of Microsoft 365.
Introduction
In a world where subscriptions are common, *Microsoft Office Home* 2021 Home & Business for Mac offers a great choice for Mac users. It gives you the power of *Microsoft Office Home* without the repeat fees. This review will look at whether this one-time purchase fits your needs or if Microsoft 365 subscription could be a better option. We will talk about important features, how to install it, user experience, and more to help you decide.
Overview of Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac
Microsoft Office 2021 Home & Business for Mac is the newest version made for Mac users. This version is different from Microsoft 365, which needs a subscription. Instead, you pay once and own it forever.
This version is great for people and small businesses. It includes important apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, all designed for macOS. With this package, you get a strong set of tools for writing, managing spreadsheets, creating presentations, and handling email, similar to classic versions of Word. You don’t have to worry about cloud features or updates that come with subscriptions.
Key Features and Benefits
Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac does not have regular updates like Microsoft 365. However, it has great features that can help individuals and small offices become more productive. Here are the key benefits:
- Familiar Apps, Improved: This version keeps the classic look of Office but adds some new features. This helps long-time users adjust easily while giving them modern tools.
- Works Offline: A major plus is that you can use it without the internet. Unlike Microsoft 365, which needs an active connection to work well, Office 2021 lets you work without being online. This is perfect for those who do not always have internet access.
- One-Time Purchase: This option is great for people who want to own their software. You do not have to pay monthly fees. This can save you money if you want to use the software for a long time without paying for a subscription.
System Requirements for Optimal Performance
Before you install Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac, make sure your Mac meets these system requirements:
- Operating System: You need macOS Big Sur (11) or a newer version. Microsoft tries to support the latest macOS versions. But it may not work with older ones, especially those before macOS Catalina.
- Processor: An Intel processor or Apple M1 chip or newer is best. Older Macs can run the software, but performance might not be great.
- Memory: At least 4GB of RAM is needed, but 8GB or more is better. This helps with smooth performance, especially when multitasking or dealing with big documents.
- Storage Space: You must have at least 10GB of free disk space on your Mac to install it. Remember, you may also need more space as you create and save your files.
Comparing Microsoft Office 2021 with Microsoft 365
The choice between Microsoft Office 2021 and Microsoft 365 depends on what you need and like. Both give you access to key Office apps, like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, whether you are using a computer or a mobile device. However, they have different ways of being offered and different features, which suit different users. Knowing these differences can help you pick the right one for your work and budget.
Both options work well for Mac users who want the benefits of Microsoft’s tools. However, their methods are very different. Office 2021, including Office Professional 2021, is a one-time purchase. It gives you a license to use it for as long as you want. This is good for people who want to own their software and use a set list of features. On the other hand, Microsoft 365 works on a subscription basis. This means you can get continuous updates, cloud storage, and extra services. It’s great for users who want the latest features and tools that allow for easy teamwork.
Subscription Model vs One-Time Purchase
The biggest difference is how each product is paid for. Microsoft 365 uses a subscription model. You need to pay every month or year. In return for your payments, you get regular updates and technical support. This way, you always have the latest features, security fixes, and new tools from Microsoft. The subscription also comes with OneDrive for cloud storage. This helps you work better with others, no matter where you are or what device you use.
On the other hand, Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac goes back to a one-time payment model for desktop use. You pay a single amount upfront. This gives you a permanent license to use the software. This can save you money over time, especially if you want to use it for a long time without paying regularly. However, keep in mind that you won’t get major updates after the 2021 version.
Available Apps and Services in Both Packages
Both Microsoft 365 and Office 2021 provide the core Office applications – Word for document creation, Excel for spreadsheets, PowerPoint for presentations, and Outlook for email management. However, the availability of additional apps and services varies between the two.
Microsoft 365, depending on your plan, may include access to additional apps like Microsoft Teams, OneDrive cloud storage, and Skype. These services enhance collaboration, provide access to files from anywhere, and allow for video conferencing. Office 2021, however, focuses solely on the core apps. While it integrates with some Microsoft services, it doesn’t offer the same breadth of cloud-based features or the continuous integration of new apps that a Microsoft 365 subscription provides.
Feature |
Microsoft 365 |
Office 2021 |
Word |
Yes |
Yes |
Excel |
Yes |
Yes |
PowerPoint |
Yes |
Yes |
Outlook |
Yes |
Yes |
OneDrive |
Yes |
Limited |
Microsoft Teams |
Varies by plan |
No |
Skype |
Varies by plan |
No |
Continuous Updates |
Yes |
No |
Installation and Setup Process
The installation of Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac on a MacBook Pro is easy. After you buy the software and download the installer, you need to open it. You can find it in your Downloads folder or the place where you saved it. The program will help you through the steps. This usually means accepting the software license agreement, picking a spot on your MacBook Pro for installation (if you want), and typing in your product key.
The whole process is quick, and soon you will have Office 2021 working on your Mac. Make sure to connect to the internet while you install it. This lets Microsoft activate your product key and gives you access to all the features.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Office 2021 on Mac
- Download the Installer: After you buy Office 2021 Home & Business, you will get a link to download the installer file. Save this file in your Mac’s Downloads folder or somewhere easy to find.
- Launch the Installer: Find the downloaded installer file (it usually ends with .pkg) and double-click it to open. Your Mac might ask if you want to open a file from an unknown developer. Click “Open” to continue.
- Follow the On-Screen Prompts: The installation wizard will help you with the rest. You will need to agree to Microsoft’s terms and conditions, select a place to install on your Mac’s hard drive, and enter your product key when it asks for it. Keep this key close because you will need it to activate the software.
Activating Your Office 2021 License
Once you finish installing Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac, you must activate it using your product key. Here’s how you can do that:
- Open an Office Application: Start any Office app like Word, Excel, or PowerPoint. When you open it, a window will likely pop up asking you to activate the software.
- Sign in with Your Microsoft Account: If it asks, log in with your Microsoft account. If you do not have one, you can create one for free right from the activation window.
- Enter Your Product Key: After logging in, type in the 25-character product key you got when you bought Office 2021. Once you enter it, click “Activate” to check your license with Microsoft.
When your activation is successful, you will have full access to all the features of Office 2021 Home & Business for Mac. This will help you use this suite well and enhance your productivity on your Mac.
User Experience and Interface
Microsoft has focused on making the Office 2021 interface easy to use. The well-known ribbon layout is simple and helps users move easily between tabs and tools. This makes it easier for long-time Office users to switch from older versions or Windows.
The design looks clean and modern, so it doesn’t feel old, even with the focus on classic apps. In sum, Microsoft has successfully balanced what feels familiar with what feels new in the Office 2021 interface. This gives both new and experienced users a smooth and efficient experience.
Navigating the New Features of Office 2021
Office 2021 may not have a completely new look like some subscription software does. Still, it brings in new features and improvements that can make everyday tasks easier.
A key update is the addition of XLOOKUP and dynamic arrays in Excel. These tools provide better and faster ways to handle and analyze data. Also, the suite now has new ink effects and visual upgrades in all applications. These updates add a nice touch to your documents, presentations, and spreadsheets, making them more visually appealing without losing compatibility with older versions.
Compatibility with macOS Versions
Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac works well with the newest macOS versions. It is made to function best with macOS Big Sur (11) or newer. This means users with the latest Mac models, like the MacBook, iMac, Mac mini, and Mac Pro, can use all the features of the software.
However, older macOS versions may have some compatibility issues. Microsoft usually focuses on supporting the latest version and the last two versions of macOS. If you have an older macOS, especially anything before Catalina, you might need to upgrade your operating system. This will help improve performance and give you access to all features.
Productivity and Collaboration Tools
Microsoft knows that being productive is not only about knowing how to use software. Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac focuses on giving you tools that help you get things done easily. Each program in this package has features designed to improve your work.
When you create interesting documents in Word, handle complex data in Excel, design eye-catching presentations with PowerPoint, or manage emails through Outlook, the goal is the same. They aim to provide you the right tools and flexibility to complete your tasks well.
Enhancements in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Each application has useful improvements beyond its main functions.
- Word now has Focus Mode. This feature helps you write without distractions. It also offers better accessibility for those with disabilities.
- Excel includes XLOOKUP and Dynamic Arrays. These upgrades help users analyze data more easily. They make creating complex formulas and handling data simpler, making Excel a stronger tool for making decisions based on data.
- PowerPoint gets better visual options and ink tools. Users can access more transitions, animations, and ink effects. This makes presentations more engaging and lively.
New Outlook Features for Better Email Management
Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac brings new features to Outlook to help you manage your emails better and improve your work process. A key feature is the Focused Inbox, which is now common in Microsoft’s email programs.
This feature smartly organizes your emails by sorting out less important ones. This lets you focus on what is most important. The new Outlook also works better with Microsoft’s cloud services, but not as much as Microsoft 365.
Security and Privacy Features
Microsoft sees how important it is to keep user data safe in our digital world. They have added features to boost security in Office 2021 for Mac. This version may not get updates as often as Microsoft 365, but it still has security improvements to protect your data and privacy.
It’s important to understand that since Office 2021 is a one-time purchase, it may not receive the latest security updates as frequently as the subscription-based version.
What’s New in Data Protection?
Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac has better tools to help protect your important data. You can create rules to stop accidental sharing or leaking of sensitive information. This is useful when you are working together on documents or spreadsheets.
The program also has improved ways to encrypt files saved on your Mac. This helps keep your information safe if your device is lost or stolen.
Compliance and Safety Measures
Microsoft focuses on following security rules that are common in the industry in Office 2021. This means your data is treated responsibly. Sticking to standards like ISO and GDPR is important for Microsoft. This gives users confidence that their personal information is safe.
Office 2021 for Mac may not receive regular security updates like Microsoft 365, but it still has a strong security base. This is important for users who deal with sensitive data and care about following the right industry standards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac gives you a strong set of tools to boost productivity and teamwork. You can buy it once, which is great for users who want a full solution without paying every month. This version has new features made for Mac users, easy setup, and better data protection. It meets the needs of different users, whether you are a professional or a student. The latest Office version offers a smooth experience and helps you work better on macOS. Upgrade to Office 2021 for Mac to enjoy its advanced features and improve your work efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Office 2021 for Mac on Multiple Devices?
Office 2021 Home & Business for Mac is for one Mac only. But, you can use your Microsoft account to temporarily install it on another Mac while you travel.
How Does Microsoft Office 2021 Home and Business for Mac Compare to Previous Versions?
Office 2021 for Mac has exciting new features and upgrades compared to earlier versions. It includes better performance, new functions in Excel like XLOOKUP and Dynamic Arrays, a clearer user interface, and stronger security tools.