Microsoft 365, previously known as Microsoft Office, is the most popular and comprehensive suite of office applications in the world. However, not everyone can afford to buy a standalone Microsoft 365 license or subscribe to its cloud-based service. Fortunately, there are some ways to use Microsoft 365 for free without compromising on quality.
Table of Contents
- Microsoft 365 Online (Formerly Office Online)
- Use Microsoft 365 Mobile Apps
- Microsoft 365 Trial Versions
- Purchase Microsoft 365 Bundled Hardware
- Use Microsoft 365 Education for Free
- Use Microsoft Rewards to Get Microsoft 365 for Free
- Joining a Friend’s Microsoft 365 Family Account
- Use a Third-Party Microsoft 365 Alternative
Microsoft 365 Online (Formerly Office Online)
One of the best ways to access Microsoft 365 for free is to use Microsoft 365 Online, the web-based version of the suite. Microsoft 365 Online offers a range of free Microsoft 365 utilities, such as:
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- OneNote
- Sway
- People
- Calendar
- OneDrive
You can use these online apps to create, edit, and share documents, spreadsheets, presentations, notes, and more. All you need is a Microsoft account and an internet connection.
However, there is a trade-off. The online versions of Microsoft 365 apps have fewer features and capabilities than their desktop counterparts. For instance, Word Online does not support text boxes, WordArt, equations, charts, and other advanced elements. You can still write a basic document, but you may struggle to create a professional report. Likewise, Excel Online does not support custom macros, which can limit your data analysis and automation options.
Despite these limitations, Microsoft 365 Online is a flexible and reliable free alternative to a paid Microsoft 365 license. The online apps can open and edit your files, preserve your formatting, and sync with your OneDrive storage. You can also collaborate with others in real-time using the online apps.
Use Microsoft 365 Mobile Apps
Microsoft 365 mobile apps, previously known as Microsoft Office mobile, offer functional versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for Android and iOS users at no cost. The effectiveness of these apps depends on the screen size of the device. For example, editing a Word document is manageable on a smartphone, but navigating an Excel spreadsheet can be challenging. However, using a tablet for these tasks can be quite pleasant.
While it’s unlikely that you’ll manage your company’s accounts solely from the Microsoft 365 mobile app, it’s a handy tool for quick edits and updates. It’s a cost-effective way to access some features of Microsoft 365.
The unified Microsoft 365 app, available to Android and iOS users, includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Additional features include Microsoft Lens for document scanning, a PDF conversion tool, instant file sharing between devices, and the ability to extract images and data from files and spreadsheets.
For those who prefer individual apps, standalone versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneDrive, Outlook, OneNote, and SharePoint are available on Google Play and the App Store.
Links to the standalone Microsoft 365 apps for Android devices are provided below:
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- OneDrive
- Outlook
- OneNote
- SharePoint
Download: Microsoft 365 for Android | iOS
The Microsoft Corporation App Store page also provides links to the various free Microsoft 365 apps for iPhone and iPad users.
Microsoft 365 Trial Versions
Another way to use Microsoft 365 for free is to sign up for a trial version. Microsoft offers a one-month free trial of Microsoft 365 Personal and Microsoft 365 Family, which you can download from the official website.
The trial versions give you access to the full features and capabilities of the Microsoft 365 desktop apps, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. You also get 1 TB of OneDrive cloud storage and 60 minutes of Skype calls per month.
However, there are some limitations and requirements for the trial versions. First, you need a Microsoft account and a valid credit card to sign up for the trial. Second, you can only use the trial version on one PC or Mac and one tablet or phone. Third, you can only sign up for one trial per Microsoft account. Fourth, you have to cancel your subscription before the trial period ends, or you will be charged automatically.
The trial versions are a great way to test-drive Microsoft 365 and see if it suits your needs. You can also use them to complete a short-term project or assignment without paying for a full license. But remember to cancel your subscription on time to avoid unwanted charges.
Purchase Microsoft 365 Bundled Hardware
Acquiring Microsoft 365 as part of a bundle with a new desktop or laptop is an infrequent occurrence. Unless there’s a specific promotional offer, Microsoft 365 is typically an additional purchase. For those assembling their own PCs, bundling isn’t an option.
However, such deals are not unheard of—they require perfect timing. This means having the financial resources to seize the opportunity when new hardware comes with a bundled deal, and a genuine need to upgrade your existing hardware.
Use Microsoft 365 Education for Free
If you are a student, teacher, or staff member at an educational institution, you may be eligible to use Microsoft 365 Education for free. Microsoft 365 Education includes the online versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Microsoft Teams, as well as additional classroom tools.
To use Microsoft 365 Education for free, you need a valid school email address. You can check your eligibility and sign up for the service on the official website. Once you verify your email, you can create your account and start using Microsoft 365 Education online.
You may also be able to download and install the Microsoft 365 desktop apps on your PC, Mac, or mobile device for free, depending on your school’s license agreement with Microsoft. You can check this option on your account page after signing up for Microsoft 365 Education.
Use Microsoft Rewards to Get Microsoft 365 for Free
Microsoft Rewards is a loyalty program that rewards you for using Microsoft products and services. You can earn points by searching with Bing, browsing with Microsoft Edge, playing games on Xbox, taking quizzes and surveys, and more. You can then redeem your points for various rewards, including gift cards, sweepstakes entries, and donations.
One of the rewards you can get with Microsoft Rewards is a one-month subscription to Microsoft 365 Personal. You need 9,800 points to redeem this reward, which is equivalent to about $10. You can also get a three-month subscription to Microsoft 365 Family for 29,000 points, which is worth about $30.
Of course, earning enough points to get Microsoft 365 for free may take some time and effort. You also need to be consistent and active in using Microsoft products and services. But if you are already a loyal Microsoft user, this is a nice way to get some perks and benefits, including Microsoft 365.
You can sign up for Microsoft Rewards for free on the official website. You can also download the Microsoft Rewards app on your Android or iOS device to track your points and redeem your rewards.
Microsoft 365 Education is a great way to use Microsoft 365 for free if you are part of the academic community. You can access the essential Microsoft 365 apps and tools, collaborate with your classmates and teachers, and enhance your learning experience.
Joining a Friend’s Microsoft 365 Family Account
While it may seem unconventional, joining a friend’s Microsoft 365 Family account is another way to access Microsoft 365 at no cost. Similar to how individuals share passwords for Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Grammarly, you could potentially join a friend’s Microsoft 365 Family account if they have an available spot. Remember, it’s important to respect their generosity and ask permission before joining.
Use a Third-Party Microsoft 365 Alternative
The last option to use Microsoft 365 for free is to switch to a third-party alternative. There are many free and open-source office suites that can perform most of the tasks that Microsoft 365 can. Some of the most popular ones are:
- LibreOffice: A powerful and versatile office suite that includes Writer, Calc, Impress, Draw, Base, and Math. It supports a wide range of file formats, including Microsoft 365 formats. It also has a large community of users and developers who contribute to its improvement and innovation.
- Google Workspace: A cloud-based office suite that includes Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, and more. It allows you to create, edit, and share documents online, as well as collaborate with others in real-time. It also integrates with other Google services, such as Gmail, Drive, Calendar, and Meet.
- WPS Office: A lightweight and user-friendly office suite that includes Writer, Presentation, and Spreadsheets. It has a similar interface and functionality to Microsoft 365, and it can open and save Microsoft 365 files. It also offers some extra features, such as PDF conversion, cloud backup, and document encryption.
These are just some of the many alternatives to Microsoft 365 that you can use for free. They may not have all the features and capabilities of Microsoft 365, but they can meet most of your office needs. You can also use them alongside Microsoft 365 Online or the trial versions to get the best of both worlds.