Free Document App for Mac: Should You Download from the Mac App Store?

Are you looking for a free document app for your Mac? If so, you may be wondering whether to download Office from the Mac App Store or directly from Microsoft. In this article, we'll explore the differences between these two options and help you make an informed decision.

Microsoft AutoUpdate: What's the Difference?

If you download Office from the Mac App Store, you may not need Microsoft AutoUpdate to get updates for your apps. The App Store will provide you with future updates of Office. However, if you downloaded Office directly from Microsoft, then Microsoft AutoUpdate is used to get updates for those specific apps.

Compatibility Issues: A Word of Caution

If you own an older perpetual release of Office, such as Office 2016 for Mac, and want to upgrade your version of Office, be aware that the apps available in the Mac App Store are not compatible with Office 2019 licenses. You may need to consider purchasing a Microsoft 365 subscription or upgrading to a newer version of Office.

The Benefits of Microsoft 365 Subscriptions

A Microsoft 365 subscription provides always up-to-date versions of Office apps and access to additional premium features and services. While OneNote and OneDrive do not require a Microsoft 365 subscription, some premium features may require one. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, on the other hand, require a Microsoft 365 subscription to activate.

What's Available from the Mac App Store?

The Office apps available from the Mac App Store provide the very latest version of Office on the Mac. Starting in January 2019, the following Office applications are available for download from the Mac App Store: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and OneDrive.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a free document app for your Mac, there are several options to consider. If you own an older perpetual release of Office, you may need to upgrade or purchase a Microsoft 365 subscription to access the latest features. By understanding the differences between downloading Office from the Mac App Store and directly from Microsoft, you can make an informed decision about which option is best for your needs.

Free document app for mac