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What just happened? Microsoft has quietly released a free, ad-supported version of Office, granting access to Word, PowerPoint, and Excel with limited functionality. Unlike the online version of Office, however, users can install it locally and create new files.
Until now, Microsoft 365 Online has been the only official way to access the software for free, albeit with limited functionality. However, Microsoft appears to be exploring alternative offerings. While the company has not announced plans to fully support a free, downloadable version of its productivity suite, a test build remains available as of this writing.
This mysterious version of Office is part of a limited test, according to PCWorld, which explains why it is absent from Microsoft’s main website and support pages. The download page went unnoticed until Beebom discovered it.
Each Office app displays a large advertisement banner on the right side of the window, which plays a muted 15-second video every few hours. Furthermore, like the web version, the test build only allows users to save files to OneDrive.
Copying files from OneDrive to local storage is simple, but it adds an extra step – one that Microsoft likely hopes will encourage users to subscribe to Microsoft 365 Premium. The features locked behind the paid version primarily include smart recommendations, add-ons, and data analysis tools.
Users interested in trying the ad-supported version can visit the download page, which is tucked away on the Microsoft Office website. While Beebom reports that the ad-supported build only supports Windows, a macOS download button is also visible.
To install, run the executable and wait for the installation to complete. Upon opening an Office app, click “Skip for now” on the initial pop-up window. On the following page, select “Continue for free,” then choose “Save to OneDrive” to avoid purchasing a subscription. Microsoft has no plans for a full release, so it remains unclear if or when the company will remove the test download.
The official way to use Office offline without a subscription is through the paid standalone version, which received a major update late last year. Office 2024 is available for PC and macOS via a one-device lifetime activation for $160, while Office 2021 is currently on sale for $70.
Although both versions offer similar basic features, Office 2024 includes performance optimizations and advanced features that will continue receiving updates. Meanwhile, a Microsoft 365 subscription provides access to generative AI tools, cloud storage, among other perks.
For those seeking a free downloadable alternative, LibreOffice is worth considering, too.
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