Do I Need Microsoft 365 or Is a One-Time Purchase Enough?

Modified on Thu, 2 Apr at 6:37 PM

Short Answer
No, you do not need Microsoft 365. One-time purchase versions of Microsoft Office, such as Office 2021 or Office 2024, include the core applications most users need and do not require a subscription.

What Is the Difference?

One-Time Purchase OfficeMicrosoft 365
PaymentSingle paymentMonthly or yearly subscription
Licence DurationPermanentActive only while the subscription is paid
Apps IncludedCore Office apps, depending on editionCore Office apps, plus subscription features
UpdatesSecurity updates onlyOngoing feature updates
Cloud StorageNot includedUsually includes OneDrive storage
Internet RequirementNeeded for activation, then can be used offlinePeriodic internet connection required for subscription checks

Choose a One-Time Purchase If You Want To:

  • Pay once and keep the software permanently
  • Avoid monthly or yearly charges
  • Use the main Office apps without a subscription
  • Work offline without ongoing subscription checks

Choose Microsoft 365 If You Want To:

  • Receive the latest feature updates as they are released
  • Use Microsoft’s subscription extras, such as cloud storage
  • Install Office across multiple devices under a subscription plan
  • Use Microsoft’s ongoing subscription services

Will a One-Time Purchase Stop Working?
No. Once activated, a one-time purchase version of Office does not expire. It will continue to work on that device without any recurring payment.

What We Sell
At Get Renewed Tech, we sell one-time purchase licences, not Microsoft 365 subscriptions. That means you pay once and there are no automatic renewals or recurring fees.

Need Help Choosing?
If you are unsure which option is right for you, please contact our support team through the helpdesk and we will be happy to advise.

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