Table of Contents
Key Points
- Microsoft offers a free, ad-supported desktop version of Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, on Windows only.
- It seems likely that this version includes ads, like a persistent banner and 15-second video ads every few hours, which may frustrate users.
- Research suggests users can edit and create documents but must save to OneDrive, with 5GB free storage.
- The evidence leans toward many advanced features being locked, such as add-ins and data analysis tools, limiting functionality.
- It appears downloading is straightforward from the official Microsoft website, with a simple setup process.
Overview
Microsoft has quietly launched a free, ad-supported desktop Office suite, allowing access to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint without a subscription fee, but with notable limitations. This version is available only on Windows and includes ads that might disrupt the user experience. While it supports basic editing and creation, saving files requires OneDrive, and advanced features are restricted, which could be a drawback for power users.
Installation Process
Getting started is easy. Download the desktop version from the official Microsoft website Microsoft Office. Run the setup file, open any Office app like Word, and follow prompts to skip sign-in and continue for free, saving to OneDrive as the only option.
Limitations and Features
The ad-supported version comes with trade-offs. A persistent ad banner appears on the right side, and a muted 15-second video ad plays every few hours. Users can’t save locally, relying on OneDrive’s 5GB free storage. Many advanced features, like add-ins and data analysis, are greyed out, which might disappoint those needing more functionality.
Microsoft’s recent move to offer a free, ad-supported desktop version of Office, rebranded as Microsoft 365 Copilot, marks a significant shift in accessibility. This version, available exclusively on Windows, includes core applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, enabling users to edit and create documents without a subscription fee. However, the inclusion of ads and feature restrictions introduces a complex user experience that warrants a closer look.
Background and Context
The launch, which went largely unnoticed, contrasts with Microsoft’s previous approach. Historically, after an Office license expired, users could only view documents. Now, this ad-supported tier allows active editing, a change not widely documented on Microsoft’s support pages. The last similar consideration was in 2009, making this a surprising development in 2025.
User Experience: Ads and Functionality
The ad-supported model introduces visible interruptions. A persistent ad banner sits on the right side of all three apps, unremovable without a premium subscription. Additionally, a muted 15-second video ad plays every few hours, potentially disrupting workflow. I tested this on my Windows 11 PC, a virtual machine, and another system, confirming the ads appear consistently.
Saving files is another limitation. Users must use OneDrive, with 5GB of free storage provided. While convenient for cloud access, it restricts local saving, which might be inconvenient for offline work. Opening files via the OneDrive app or website is possible, but it adds steps compared to traditional local storage.
Feature Restrictions
The free version locks many advanced features, impacting usability for power users. Below is a detailed breakdown by application:
Word
Dictate, Add-ins, Line spacing, Shading, Borders, Cover Page, Tables, Shapes, Icons, SmartArt, Chart, Online Videos, Bookmark, Cross-reference, Header, Footer, Text Box, Quick Parts, WordArt, Signature Line, Date & Time, Object, Equation, Symbol, Columns, Line Numbers, Hyphenation, Wrap Text, Position, Align, Bring Forward/Backward, All Draw and Design tools, All References and Mailing tools
Excel
Add-ins, Analyze Data, Fill, Conditional Formatting, Pivot Table, Recommended PivotTables, Icons, SmartArt, Screenshot, Recommended Charts, PivotChart, Line, Column, Win/Loss, Slicer, Timeline, Header and Footer, WordArt, Signature Line, Object, Equation, Symbol, Themes, Colors, Fonts, Effects, Breaks, Background, Print Titles, Defined Names, Formula Auditing, Watch Window, Macros, Custom Views, Workbook Statistics, All Data tools
PowerPoint
Dictate, Add-ins, Designer, SmartArt, Screenshot, Photo Album, Cameo, Icons, Chart, Power BI, Action, Header and Footer, Date and Time, Slide Number, Object, Equation, Symbol, Screen Recording, Format Background, Custom Slide Show, Set Up Slide Show, Record, Rehearse Timings, Play Narrations, Use Timings, Show media controls, Macros, Slide Master, Notes Master, All Draw, Animations, and Record tools
These restrictions mean basic tasks are covered, but advanced editing, like adding watermarks or analyzing data, is unavailable, which could be frustrating for professionals.
Installation Guide
Installing the free version is straightforward. Here’s how I did it:
- Download the desktop version from the official Microsoft website Microsoft Office.
- Run the setup file and let it download the suite.
- Open any app, like Word, and a pop-up appears. Click “Skip for now.”
- See the “Welcome to free Word, Excel, and PowerPoint” dialog, then click “Continue for free.”
- On the next page, click “Save to OneDrive,” as it’s the only option for the free version.
- Start using the apps, creating and editing documents with ads present.
This process, tested on multiple Windows 11 systems, worked seamlessly, confirming accessibility for new users.
Implications for Users
For casual users, this free version offers a viable alternative to paid subscriptions, especially for light editing and everyday tasks. However, the ads and feature locks might feel restrictive, particularly for those accustomed to full functionality. The requirement to save on OneDrive could be a positive for cloud integration but a negative for privacy-conscious users or those with limited internet access.
Comparative Analysis
Compared to the web version of Office, this desktop offering provides a more traditional experience but with ads. It’s a middle ground between free web access and paid desktop subscriptions, potentially appealing to budget-conscious individuals. However, the lack of official documentation and Windows-only availability might limit its reach.
Conclusion
Microsoft’s free, ad-supported Office suite is a double-edged sword. It democratizes access to essential productivity tools but introduces compromises like ads and feature restrictions. For my career, understanding these trade-offs is crucial, especially when considering cost-effective solutions for document editing. This detailed analysis should help navigate the decision, balancing convenience against limitations.