Microsoft Office 2021 for Mac

Microsoft Office 2021, also known as Office 16, is a one-time purchase suite for Windows and macOS, released on October 5, 2021. It includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, making it useful for creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations without requiring a subscription. It supports offline use and local file storage, ideal for traditional desktop environments.

Unlike Microsoft 365, Microsoft Office 2021 doesn’t receive ongoing feature updates but continues to get essential security patches. It offers a stable, reliable experience with a familiar interface, making it ideal for users who prefer long-term ownership, minimal changes, and offline productivity without recurring subscription fees.

Core tools and notable features

Microsoft Office 2021 includes updated versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, with enhancements like dark mode, new Excel functions such as XLOOKUP, and a refreshed design. Collaboration tools have improved, allowing real-time co-authoring and better commenting. Microsoft Teams integration, especially for Windows 10 users, brings chat and video calls directly into the Office suite, improving team communication and workflow within documents.

Office 2021 is a one-time purchase, offering core apps. It’s available in editions like Home & Student or Professional, depending on your needs. While you still can buy it from Microsoft and other retailers, support will end on October 13, 2026 — after which updates and assistance will no longer be provided, making future compatibility and security a consideration for long-term use.

Unlike Microsoft 365, Office 2021 does not include continuous feature updates or cloud-based tools, which may be limiting for users wanting newer features over time. Alternatives include Google Workspace for cloud collaboration, LibreOffice for a free desktop option, and Microsoft 365 for those who prefer subscription-based access to updated tools. Your choice will depend on your preferred workflow, budget, and collaboration needs.

Dependable and remains effective

Microsoft Office 2021 is a dependable, one-time purchase productivity suite ideal for users who prefer offline work and long-term ownership. It offers essential tools for creating documents, presentations, and emails, making it suitable for individuals and small businesses with stable workflows. While it lacks cloud syncing and frequent updates, it delivers reliability and a familiar interface, remaining effective for basic to intermediate tasks without ongoing subscription costs.

• Addressed several vulnerabilities across various applications