Microsoft Excel, a staple in the world of spreadsheets, is widely used by businesses, students, and professionals alike. But the question remains: does using the Microsoft Excel app cost money?
To answer this, we need to consider the different ways you can access and use Excel, as the cost can vary depending on the method you choose.
Microsoft 365 Subscription
Microsoft 365 is a subscription service that includes access to Excel, along with other Microsoft Office apps like Word and PowerPoint. With a subscription, you can use Excel on multiple devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
However, Microsoft 365 is not free. The cost varies depending on the plan you choose:
- Microsoft 365 Personal: This plan costs $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year and allows you to install Office apps on one computer and one tablet.
- Microsoft 365 Family: Priced at $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year, this plan lets you install Office apps on up to six devices, including computers, tablets, and phones.
- Microsoft 365 for Business: The cost for business plans starts at $5.00 per user per month for Microsoft 365 Business Basic, which includes web and mobile versions of Office apps.
One-Time Purchase
If you prefer not to subscribe to Microsoft 365, you can purchase Microsoft Office as a one-time purchase. The cost for the Home & Student 2021 version is $149.99, which includes Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and OneNote.
However, a one-time purchase only allows you to use the apps on one computer, and you won't receive updates or new features. Additionally, you won't have access to cloud storage or other benefits of a Microsoft 365 subscription.
Free Versions of Excel
While using Excel through a Microsoft 365 subscription or a one-time purchase comes with a cost, there are free alternatives available:
Excel Online: Microsoft offers a free, web-based version of Excel called Excel Online. It's less feature-rich than the desktop version, but it's sufficient for basic tasks. You can access Excel Online through your Microsoft account.
Google Sheets: Google's free, web-based spreadsheet app is another alternative to Excel. It offers many of the same features as Excel and can be used in conjunction with other Google Workspace apps like Google Docs and Google Slides.
Excel for Students and Educators
![[FREE] 141 Free Excel Templates and Spreadsheets](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ee/10/a8/ee10a8a9d1d6bae4c8510dddb08e229e.jpg)
Microsoft offers special pricing for students and educators. If you're a student or an educator, you may be eligible for Microsoft 365 Education, which includes Excel and other Office apps at no cost.
To qualify, you must be enrolled in a degree- or certificate-granting program at a qualified institution. Once you've verified your eligibility, you can sign up for Microsoft 365 Education and start using Excel for free.
Excel for Businesses
For businesses, the cost of using Excel depends on the number of users and the specific Microsoft 365 plan you choose. Microsoft offers several business plans, including:
- Microsoft 365 Business Basic: Starting at $5.00 per user per month, this plan includes web and mobile versions of Office apps.
- Microsoft 365 Business Standard: Priced at $12.50 per user per month, this plan includes desktop versions of Office apps, along with additional business features.
- Microsoft 365 Business Premium: Starting at $20.00 per user per month, this plan includes all the features of Business Standard, along with advanced security and device management tools.
In conclusion, while using the Microsoft Excel app can cost money, there are also free alternatives available. Whether you choose to pay for a Microsoft 365 subscription, purchase Office as a one-time purchase, or use a free version of Excel, the best option depends on your specific needs and budget.