When it comes to managing data and creating complex spreadsheets, Microsoft Excel is the go-to for millions of users around the world. However, with multiple versions of the software available, it can be challenging to determine which one is best for your needs. In this article, we'll dive into the differences between Excel 365 and Excel 2021, two of the most popular spreadsheet software options, so you can make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways:
- Excel 365 and Excel 2021 are two popular spreadsheet software options.
- Excel 365 is available through a subscription model, while Excel 2021 requires a one-time purchase.
- Both options offer unique features and updates that cater to different user needs.
- Comparing pricing, features, and updates can help you determine which option is best suited for your individual needs and budget.
- User reviews can provide valuable insight into the experience of using each version of the software.
Features of Excel 365
Excel 365 is much more than just a basic spreadsheet software tool. It offers an extensive range of features that cater to the needs of both individual users and businesses. Let's take a closer look at some of the key Excel 365 features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Advanced functions | Excel 365 includes a wide range of advanced functions that enable users to perform complex calculations and analyses. Whether it's financial, statistical or engineering, Excel 365 has a function to suit your needs. |
| Collaboration Tools | Excel 365 allows users to work together in real time. Co-authoring, comments, and version history help users collaborate and share files easily. |
| AI-powered features | Excel 365 boasts AI-powered features such as Excel Ideas, which help users simplify data analysis and presentation. Excel Ideas leverages machine learning to provide insights and recommendations for data visualization. |
| Data Connections | Excel 365 allows users to connect data sources to their spreadsheets. Users can import data from external sources, such as SQL Server, Power BI, and Azure, to create more robust reports and insights. |
| Mobile and Web Applications | Excel 365 applications are available on web and mobile platforms, including Android and iOS. Users can access their spreadsheets from anywhere and collaborate on the go. |
Excel 365's capabilities go far beyond these features, but they give an insight into the level of capabilities and sophistication of this software. Excel 365 is a comprehensive and versatile tool that can help users manage data more efficiently and gain powerful insights.
Updates in Excel 365
Excel 365 is an ever-evolving spreadsheet software that receives periodic updates from Microsoft. These updates add new features and enhance the functionality of the software. The latest updates in Excel 365, released in March 2021, focus on improving collaboration and data analysis capabilities.
One of the significant updates is the ability to co-author workbooks with others in real-time, even if they don't have Excel installed on their devices. This feature streamlines group work and makes collaboration more efficient.
Another notable update is the introduction of new and improved data visualizations, including funnel charts and 2D maps, that help to present data insights more effectively. These updates make it easier to analyze complex data sets and gain valuable insights.
In addition to these updates, Excel 365 also provides users with access to the latest artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies. These tools can help to automate workflow, increase productivity and overall efficiency.
Update Summary:
Update Description Co-Authoring in Real-Time Collaborate with others on a workbook simultaneously, even if they don't have Excel installed on their device. New Data Visualizations Improved data visualizations, including funnel charts and 2D maps, allow for more effective data presentation and analysis. AI and ML Tools Leverage the latest AI and ML technologies to increase workflow automation and productivity.
Pricing options for Excel 365
Excel 365 offers a variety of pricing options, making it accessible to users with different budgets and requirements. Currently, there are three subscription plans available:
| Plan Type | Pricing | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft 365 Personal | $6.99/month | Access to Excel, Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, and 1 TB of OneDrive cloud storage |
| Microsoft 365 Family | $9.99/month | Same features as Microsoft 365 Personal, with the ability to share with up to 6 people |
| Microsoft 365 Business | Starting at $5.00/user/month | Includes all features of Microsoft 365 Personal/Family, plus customized email, calendar, and security tools for businesses |
Each plan includes the latest version of Excel and access to updates as soon as they are released. Additionally, you can try any of the Excel 365 plans for free for 30 days before committing to a subscription.
If you are unsure which plan is right for you, consider your spreadsheet needs and budget carefully. Do you work independently or as part of a team? Do you require customized business tools, or just basic spreadsheet functions? By answering these questions, you can determine which Excel 365 pricing option fits your needs best.
Features of Excel 2021
Excel 2021, the latest standalone version of Excel, introduces new features and improvements. Here are some key Excel 2021 features:
- Dynamic Arrays: This feature allows you to work with arrays of data in a more dynamic and efficient way.
- XLOOKUP: This powerful new function simplifies the process of finding and retrieving data.
- Improved collaboration: Excel 2021 makes it easier to collaborate with others on your spreadsheets, with improved co-authoring capabilities.
- Enhanced Power Query: Excel 2021 has updated Power Query with new connectors and features, making it easier to import and manipulate data from various sources.
- Dark Mode: You can now switch to Dark Mode in Excel 2021, giving your eyes a break and reducing eye strain.
Overall, Excel 2021 provides powerful capabilities and tools for managing data and creating complex spreadsheets. The new features it introduces enhance the user experience and make it easier to work with data.
Updates in Excel 2021
While Excel 365 receives regular updates, the standalone version of Excel, Excel 2021, is updated less frequently. However, Microsoft periodically releases service packs and updates to address bugs and introduce minor enhancements, ensuring the software remains up-to-date and functional.
If you are curious about the latest updates, you will be happy to know that Microsoft has introduced several new features to Excel 2021. These features include:
- Dynamic Arrays: This feature allows you to perform calculations on an entire range of data, without the need to drag formulas.
- XLOOKUP: XLOOKUP simplifies the process of finding and retrieving data in your spreadsheet.
- Improved collaboration: Excel 2021 now supports co-authoring across various devices and platforms, making it easier to work with others on a single spreadsheet.
If you want to take these features for a spin, you can purchase Excel 2021 as a one-time purchase.
Pricing options for Excel 2021
If you prefer a standalone version of Excel, then Excel 2021 may be the right choice for you. Unlike Excel 365, Excel 2021 requires a one-time purchase with no ongoing subscription fees. This option may be cost-effective for those who do not need the frequent updates and new features that come with Excel 365.
When it comes to pricing options for Excel 2021, Microsoft offers two versions of the software: Home & Student and Home & Business. Home & Student, at $139.99, includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and can be installed on one device. Home & Business, priced at $219.99, includes the same three applications as the Home & Student version plus Outlook and can be installed on one device as well.
Home & Student Pricing:
| Number of Devices | Price Per Device | Total Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $139.99 | $139.99 |
Home & Business Pricing:
| Number of Devices | Price Per Device | Total Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $219.99 | $219.99 |
Note: Prices shown are accurate as of the time of publication and are subject to change.
Comparison of Features
When it comes to features, both Excel 365 and Excel 2021 offer powerful tools for managing and organizing data. However, there are some key differences between the two versions that may influence your decision.
Excel 365 boasts a vast array of features that allow users to create intricate spreadsheets with ease. This includes collaboration tools, advanced functions, and templates that save time and streamline tasks. With Excel 365, users can take advantage of cloud storage, allowing for seamless access to files across devices.
Excel 2021, on the other hand, offers a more traditional spreadsheet experience, with the focus on core functionalities. While it lacks some of the collaboration and cloud-based features found in Excel 365, it does offer some unique capabilities not found in the subscription-based version. For example, Excel 2021 allows users to create dynamic arrays, filter data with XLOOKUP, and use Microsoft's improved Power Query tool.
To better understand the differences between Excel 365 and Excel 2021, take a look at the table below:
Features
| Excel 365 | Excel 2021 |
|---|---|
| Collaboration tools | N/A |
| Advanced functions | Dynamic arrays |
| Cloud storage | N/A |
| Templates | N/A |
| XLOOKUP function | N/A |
| Power Query tool | Improved |
As you can see, Excel 365 offers more features than Excel 2021, particularly when it comes to collaboration and cloud-based capabilities. However, Excel 2021 holds its own with unique capabilities like dynamic arrays and improved Power Query. Ultimately, your choice will come down to which features are most important to you and your specific needs.
Comparison of Updates
Microsoft regularly updates its Excel software to improve its functionality and introduce new features. Here, we will compare the update frequency in Excel 365 and Excel 2021.
Note: The following information is based on data retrieved in August 2021.
| Excel 365 | Excel 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | Ongoing updates | January 2021 |
| Update Frequency | Regular(usually monthly) | Occasional(updates released via service packs) |
| New Feature Updates | Yes | Minimal(only introduced via service packs) |
| Bug Fixes | Yes | Yes |
As seen in the table, Excel 365 receives regular updates, often introducing new features, while Excel 2021's updates are more occasional, focused on fixing bugs and enhancing security.
Pricing Comparison
Now let's look at the pricing options for Excel 365 and Excel 2021 and see which one provides the best value for your money.
Excel 365 is available through a subscription model, while Excel 2021 requires a one-time purchase. The different pricing options for Excel 365 are:
| Pricing Plan | Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft 365 Personal | $6.99/month | For one person only, access to all Office apps, 1 TB OneDrive storage |
| Microsoft 365 Family | $9.99/month | For up to 6 people, access to all Office apps, 1 TB OneDrive storage per person |
| Microsoft 365 Business Basic | $5.00/user/month | Email hosting with 50 GB mailbox, web versions of Office apps, 1 TB OneDrive storage per user, Teams |
| Microsoft 365 Business Standard | $12.50/user/month | Full Office apps, email hosting with 50 GB mailbox, Teams, Sharepoint, OneDrive, Skype for Business |
On the other hand, Excel 2021 costs $139.99 for a one-time purchase. While it may be more expensive upfront, it may be a better option for those who do not require frequent software updates and the full suite of Office apps.
After reviewing the prices and features of both software options, it ultimately comes down to your specific requirements and budget.
User Reviews and Recommendations
Real user feedback is invaluable when it comes to assessing the strengths and weaknesses of different spreadsheet software. Below are a few reviews from users who have experience with both Excel 365 and Excel 2021:
"As a longtime Excel user, I recently switched to Excel 365 and couldn't be happier. The cloud-based approach has made collaboration with my team seamless, and the ability to access my spreadsheets from any device is a game-changer."
– Jane S., Marketing Manager
"I opted for Excel 2021 because I didn't want to commit to a subscription-based model. I've been happy with its functionality and haven't encountered any major issues thus far."
– Michael W., Freelance Consultant
Overall, opinions on both Excel 365 and Excel 2021 are mixed. Many users appreciate the convenience of Excel 365's cloud-based approach and regular updates, while others prefer the simplicity and affordability of Excel 2021's standalone version.
Conclusion
After weighing the features, updates, and pricing plans of both Excel 365 and Excel 2021, it's clear that both software options have their own strengths and weaknesses.
Excel 365 offers a wide range of advanced features and tools that make it a top choice for businesses and teams who require collaboration. With regular updates and cloud-based capabilities, Excel 365 can help you stay up to date and work from anywhere. However, this software comes with a subscription fee, which may not be feasible for everyone.
On the other hand, Excel 2021 is a one-time purchase and offers some of the key features of Excel 365 without the need for a subscription. Though the updates may be less frequent, Excel 2021 can still provide ample functionality for casual users.
In conclusion, it's essential to determine your specific needs and preferences before deciding between Excel 365 and Excel 2021. If you require advanced features and collaboration tools with frequent updates, Excel 365 is the ideal choice. If you're seeking a one-time purchase option with essential capabilities, Excel 2021 may be the better fit for you.
Whichever software you choose, both Excel 365 and Excel 2021 offer powerful tools for managing and analyzing data, making them valuable assets for anyone who works with spreadsheets.
FAQ
What is the difference between Excel 365 and Excel 2021?
Excel 365 and Excel 2021 are both spreadsheet software options, but there are some key differences between them. Excel 365 is a subscription-based service, while Excel 2021 is a standalone version that requires a one-time purchase. Additionally, Excel 365 receives regular updates with new features, whereas updates for Excel 2021 are less frequent.
What are the features of Excel 365?
Excel 365 offers a wide range of features, including advanced functions, data analysis tools, collaboration capabilities, and integration with other Microsoft services. It also provides access to Excel on multiple devices and cloud storage for seamless productivity.
Are there any updates in Excel 365?
Yes, Microsoft regularly releases updates for Excel 365 to enhance its functionality and introduce new features. These updates can include improvements to existing tools, bug fixes, and performance enhancements to provide a better user experience.
How much does Excel 365 cost?
Excel 365 is available through various subscription plans, starting at a monthly or annual fee. The pricing depends on the specific plan and the number of users. Microsoft offers different options to cater to personal, business, and enterprise needs.
What are the features of Excel 2021?
Excel 2021, the standalone version of Excel, comes with a range of features similar to those in Excel 365. It offers advanced functions, data analysis capabilities, charting options, and a user-friendly interface. However, it may not have the latest updates and features that Excel 365 has.
Are there any updates in Excel 2021?
While updates for Excel 2021 are not as frequent as those for Excel 365, Microsoft occasionally releases service packs and updates to address bugs and introduce minor enhancements. These updates aim to improve the stability and performance of the software.
How much does Excel 2021 cost?
Excel 2021 requires a one-time purchase, and the pricing depends on the edition and licensing model. The cost can vary depending on whether you are purchasing a single license or multiple licenses for a business or organization.
How do the features of Excel 365 compare to Excel 2021?
The features of Excel 365 and Excel 2021 are similar, but Excel 365 offers more frequent updates and access to additional cloud-based services. Excel 2021 may have a limited number of updates and may not have the same level of integration with other Microsoft services.
How do the updates in Excel 365 compare to Excel 2021?
Excel 365 receives regular updates with new features and improvements, keeping it up-to-date with the latest advancements. On the other hand, updates for Excel 2021 are less frequent but can provide bug fixes and minor enhancements to ensure a stable and reliable software experience.
Which is more cost-effective, Excel 365 or Excel 2021?
The cost-effectiveness of Excel 365 or Excel 2021 depends on your specific needs and usage. Excel 365 requires a subscription, but it provides access to the latest features and regular updates. Excel 2021 has a one-time purchase cost, but it may not have the same level of ongoing support and access to new features.
What do users say about Excel 365 and Excel 2021?
User reviews and recommendations for Excel 365 and Excel 2021 can vary. Some users appreciate the flexibility and continuous updates of Excel 365, while others prefer the one-time purchase and stability of Excel 2021. It is recommended to read user feedback and consider the specific requirements of your use case.