When it comes to productivity software suites, Microsoft offers two popular options: Microsoft 365 and Office 365. While the names may sound similar, there are some key differences between these two offerings that can impact your decision. It’s important to understand what sets them apart to ensure you choose the right suite for your needs.
Microsoft 365 is a comprehensive, all-in-one solution that not only includes the familiar Office applications but also provides additional features and services. It combines the power of Office 365 with Windows 10, Enterprise Mobility + Security, and intelligent cloud capabilities. This means you not only get access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Office apps, but also advanced security features like device management, data protection, and advanced threat protection.
Office 365 on the other hand, focuses solely on the productivity applications. It offers a subscription-based model that gives you access to the latest versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and more. With Office 365, you have the flexibility to choose the plan that best suits your needs, whether it’s for personal use, small businesses, or large enterprises.
So, the main difference between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 lies in the additional features and services that Microsoft 365 offers. It provides a more holistic solution that includes not just the Office apps, but also powerful security and management capabilities. Office 365, on the other hand, focuses solely on providing the latest versions of the Office applications in a subscription-based model. Ultimately, the choice between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 depends on your specific requirements and budget.
Pricing Model Comparison
When it comes to pricing, there are some key differences between Microsoft 365 and Office 365. Both packages offer similar productivity tools, but the way they are priced can vary significantly.
| Microsoft 365 | Office 365 | |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription Options | Microsoft 365 offers a range of subscription options, including Business, Enterprise, and Education plans. These plans offer different feature sets and pricing tiers, allowing organizations to choose the package that best suits their needs. | Office 365 also offers different subscription options, such as Business, Enterprise, and Personal plans. These plans cater to different users and their specific requirements. |
| Pricing Structure | The pricing structure for Microsoft 365 is typically based on a per-user, per-month or per-year model. This means that organizations pay a set amount for each user, depending on the plan they choose, and the payment is recurring on a monthly or yearly basis. | Office 365 follows a similar per-user, per-month or per-year pricing model. However, the pricing may vary depending on the plan and additional features that organizations require. |
| Additional Costs | Microsoft 365 plans often include additional costs for advanced features, such as advanced security, compliance, and analytics. These additional costs can vary depending on the specific requirements of the organization. | Similarly, Office 365 plans may have additional costs for advanced functionality, such as advanced email protection and archiving. These costs are typically added on top of the base subscription price. |
It’s important for organizations to carefully consider their needs and budget when choosing between Microsoft 365 and Office 365, as the pricing models and additional costs can have a significant impact on overall expenses.
Applications Included
When comparing Microsoft 365 vs Office 365, one of the key differences is the applications included in each suite.
Microsoft 365:
Microsoft 365 includes all the familiar Office 365 applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. Additionally, it also includes access to other Microsoft apps and services such as Teams, SharePoint, Yammer, and Planner. It provides a comprehensive set of productivity tools that cater to various needs and workflows within an organization.
Office 365:
Office 365 primarily focuses on the core productivity applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. It does not include the additional apps and services that are bundled with Microsoft 365. However, Office 365 still offers a robust suite of applications that can meet the needs of most users.
In summary, while Microsoft 365 includes the full suite of Office 365 applications, it also provides access to a broader range of Microsoft apps and services. Office 365, on the other hand, focuses solely on the core productivity applications.
Subscription Options
When it comes to subscription options, there is a difference between Microsoft 365 and Office 365. While both options offer access to popular Microsoft applications, they are packaged differently.
Microsoft 365 includes the full suite of Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, along with a range of additional services such as Exchange, SharePoint, and Teams. This comprehensive package is suitable for both personal and professional use.
On the other hand, Office 365 provides access to the core Office applications, which are Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. It is a more basic subscription that caters mainly to individuals or small businesses that need essential productivity tools.
Another difference is the pricing structure. Microsoft 365 offers different plans based on user needs, which can include additional features such as advanced security and device management. Office 365, on the other hand, has a more simplified pricing structure, with fewer plan options.
In summary, the main difference between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 subscription options is the level of access and additional services provided. Microsoft 365 offers a more comprehensive package that caters to both personal and professional use, while Office 365 is a more basic subscription suited for individuals or small businesses with essential productivity needs.
Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is one of the key differences between Microsoft 365 and Office 365. While both offerings provide cloud-based solutions, the approach to storage differs between the two.
Microsoft 365 includes OneDrive for Business, which is a cloud-based file storage and sharing platform. It offers users a personal storage space where they can store and access their files from anywhere using any device. OneDrive for Business also allows for collaboration, allowing multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously.
On the other hand, Office 365 offers SharePoint Online as the primary cloud storage solution. This platform provides users with a collaborative workspace where they can store, organize, and share documents within teams and organizations. SharePoint Online offers more robust content management capabilities, making it suitable for larger organizations with complex document management needs.
While both OneDrive for Business and SharePoint Online offer similar cloud storage capabilities, the difference lies in their focus. OneDrive for Business is more focused on personal file storage and individual productivity, while SharePoint Online is designed for team collaboration and content management within organizations.
In summary, the difference in cloud storage between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 lies in the focus and capabilities of their respective platforms. OneDrive for Business offers personal file storage and sharing, while SharePoint Online provides a collaborative workspace for team collaboration and document management.
Security Features
Microsoft 365 and Office 365 both offer robust security features, but there are some differences between the two.
Microsoft 365 provides advanced threat protection and security management capabilities. It offers features like Advanced Threat Analytics and Microsoft Cloud App Security to help detect and protect against cyber threats. It also includes Windows Defender Antivirus and BitLocker to safeguard against malware and data breaches.
Office 365 includes security features such as Exchange Online Protection and Advanced Threat Protection to protect against malicious emails and phishing attacks. It also offers Data Loss Prevention to help prevent accidental sharing of sensitive information.
The main difference between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 in terms of security is that Microsoft 365 includes Enterprise Mobility + Security features, such as Identity and Access Management and Mobile Device Management. These additional security features help protect against unauthorized access and secure mobile devices.
In conclusion, while both Microsoft 365 and Office 365 offer strong security features, Microsoft 365 provides additional security capabilities through its inclusion of Enterprise Mobility + Security features.
Mobile Access
When it comes to mobile access, both Microsoft 365 and Office 365 offer strong capabilities.
Microsoft 365 allows users to access their files and applications on mobile devices through apps like Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. It provides a seamless experience with cross-platform compatibility, allowing users to work on their documents and collaborate with others on the go.
Office 365 also provides mobile access to its suite of applications through apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Users can easily access their files, edit documents, and stay connected with their teams from their mobile devices.
While both Microsoft 365 and Office 365 offer similar mobile capabilities, there may be some differences in terms of features and functionalities.
- Microsoft 365 offers advanced mobile management tools, such as Intune, which allows organizations to manage and secure their mobile devices and applications. This provides additional security and control over the mobile access to company resources.
- Office 365 offers the Office Mobile app, which provides a simplified version of the Office applications for mobile devices. This allows users to quickly view and edit documents, even on devices with limited storage or processing power.
Ultimately, the choice between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 for mobile access may depend on the specific needs and preferences of the organization or individual user. Both options offer a robust mobile experience that enables productivity and collaboration on the go.
Collaboration Tools
One of the key differences between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 is the collaboration tools they offer. While both Microsoft 365 and Office 365 provide users with access to the core productivity apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, Microsoft 365 offers a more robust set of collaboration tools.
Microsoft 365 includes Microsoft Teams, a powerful tool for communication and collaboration. Teams allows users to chat, meet, call, and collaborate all in one place, making it easy for teams to work together regardless of their physical location. With Teams, users can share files, co-author documents in real-time, and even integrate third-party apps to streamline workflows.
In addition to Teams, Microsoft 365 also includes SharePoint, which serves as a centralized platform for storing, organizing, and sharing documents and other content. SharePoint allows users to create team sites, intranet portals, and communication sites, making it easier for teams to collaborate and access important information.
Microsoft 365 Collaboration Tools:
- Microsoft Teams
- SharePoint
Office 365 Collaboration Tools:
- No dedicated collaboration tool
- Users can share documents via Outlook and OneDrive
While Office 365 does not have a dedicated collaboration tool like Teams, users can still collaborate by sharing documents via Outlook and OneDrive. However, the collaboration features are more limited compared to Microsoft 365.
Overall, the collaboration tools offered in Microsoft 365 provide teams with a more seamless and integrated experience, making it easier to work together and increase productivity.
| Microsoft 365 Collaboration Tools | Office 365 Collaboration Tools |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Teams | No dedicated collaboration tool |
| SharePoint | Users can share documents via Outlook and OneDrive |
Business Intelligence
Business Intelligence is a key feature that sets Microsoft 365 apart from Office 365. While both Microsoft 365 and Office 365 offer productivity tools for businesses, Microsoft 365 goes beyond by providing business intelligence capabilities.
With Microsoft 365, businesses can access powerful data analytics and reporting tools that help them analyze and visualize their data. This allows businesses to make informed decisions and uncover valuable insights that can drive growth and improve performance.
Office 365, on the other hand, focuses more on providing tools for collaboration and productivity. While it does offer some basic reporting features, it lacks the advanced data analytics capabilities that Microsoft 365 provides.
By leveraging the business intelligence features in Microsoft 365, businesses can gain a competitive edge by effectively using their data to drive strategic decision-making.
In conclusion, the difference between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 lies in the business intelligence capabilities that Microsoft 365 offers. If your business requires advanced data analytics and reporting tools, Microsoft 365 is the better choice.
Advanced Threat Protection
One of the key differences between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 is the level of advanced threat protection offered by each suite. While both offerings provide some level of protection against cyber threats, Microsoft 365 offers more comprehensive and advanced security features.
Microsoft 365 includes advanced threat protection capabilities such as:
| 1. | Exchange Online Protection for safeguarding email against spam, malware, and other malicious threats. |
| 2. | Advanced Threat Analytics for detecting and responding to advanced attacks and suspicious activities. |
| 3. | Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection for protecting Windows 10 devices against sophisticated threats and zero-day exploits. |
| 4. | Office 365 Advanced Threat Protection for protecting against malicious attachments and URLs in emails and files. |
On the other hand, Office 365 provides basic threat protection features such as spam filtering and malware protection for emails, but lacks the advanced security capabilities offered by Microsoft 365.
Therefore, if your organization requires a higher level of security and protection against advanced cyber threats, Microsoft 365 is the recommended choice.
Advanced Compliance
One of the key differences between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 is the level of advanced compliance features offered by each. While both solutions provide a range of compliance features, Microsoft 365 takes it a step further with its advanced compliance capabilities.
With Microsoft 365, organizations have access to advanced compliance tools like Advanced eDiscovery, which allows for more efficient and comprehensive legal discovery processes. This feature includes features such as machine learning, text analytics, and predictive coding to help sift through large volumes of data and identify relevant information quickly and accurately.
In addition to Advanced eDiscovery, Microsoft 365 offers features like Advanced Data Governance, Advanced Information Protection, and Advanced Threat Protection, which provide organizations with enhanced security and compliance capabilities.
On the other hand, Office 365 also offers a range of compliance features, including Data Loss Prevention (DLP), eDiscovery, and legal hold capabilities. However, these features may not be as advanced or comprehensive as those offered by Microsoft 365.
Overall, the difference in advanced compliance features between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 highlights the advantages of opting for the former for organizations that require more robust compliance capabilities.
Device Management
Device management is an important aspect when it comes to choosing between Microsoft 365 and Office 365. Both platforms offer device management features, but there are some key differences to consider.
Microsoft 365 provides comprehensive device management capabilities through its Endpoint Manager solution. Endpoint Manager allows administrators to manage and secure devices, applications, and data across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It also enables device enrollment, policy management, app distribution, and remote wipe capabilities.
Office 365, on the other hand, does not provide the same level of device management as Microsoft 365. While administrators can still manage devices to a certain extent, the capabilities are more limited compared to Endpoint Manager. Office 365 focuses primarily on productivity and collaboration features, rather than device management.
So, if device management is a critical requirement for your organization, Microsoft 365 would be the better choice. It offers a more robust set of device management features that can help you efficiently manage and secure your devices, regardless of the platform they are running on.
Video Conferencing
Video conferencing is an essential feature in today’s remote work environment. Both Office 365 and Microsoft 365 offer video conferencing capabilities, but there are some key differences between the two.
- Office 365: Office 365 provides video conferencing through Microsoft Teams, which is a part of the suite. With Office 365, you can host online meetings, join video calls, and collaborate with teammates in real-time. It offers features like screen sharing, chat, and file sharing, making it easy to communicate and work together.
- Microsoft 365: Microsoft 365 also includes Microsoft Teams, but it offers additional video conferencing capabilities with the Microsoft 365 Business Standard and Microsoft 365 E3 plans. With Microsoft 365, you can host larger meetings with up to 10,000 participants and use advanced features like meeting recordings and live event streaming.
Overall, both Office 365 and Microsoft 365 provide video conferencing solutions through Microsoft Teams, but Microsoft 365 offers more advanced features and capabilities for larger and more complex meetings.
Deployment Options
One key difference between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 is the deployment options they offer.
Microsoft 365 is available in two deployment options: the cloud-based version and the on-premises version. The cloud-based version, known as Microsoft 365 Cloud, allows users to access their applications, files, and data from anywhere with an internet connection. This option is ideal for businesses that want the flexibility and scalability of cloud computing.
On the other hand, Office 365 is primarily a cloud-based solution. It is designed to be accessed through the internet, allowing users to work with their files and applications online. However, Office 365 can also be installed locally on individual devices, providing users with an offline working capability. This deployment option is commonly referred to as Office 365 Offline or Office 365 Desktop.
Overall, while Microsoft 365 offers both cloud-based and on-premises deployment options, Office 365 primarily focuses on cloud-based deployment with the additional option for local installation.
Key Difference: Microsoft 365 offers a choice between cloud-based and on-premises deployment options, while Office 365 primarily focuses on cloud-based deployment with the option for local installation.
Update and Support
One of the key differences between Microsoft 365 and Office 365 lies in the area of update and support. While both Microsoft 365 and Office 365 offer regular updates and support, the level and frequency of these updates may differ.
Microsoft 365 Updates and Support
With Microsoft 365, you can expect to receive regular updates that include new features, security patches, and bug fixes. These updates are typically released on a monthly basis and are designed to keep your Microsoft 365 applications running smoothly and securely. Additionally, Microsoft provides extensive support options for users of Microsoft 365, including online documentation, community forums, and direct support from Microsoft experts.
Office 365 Updates and Support
In comparison, Office 365 updates tend to be less frequent than those of Microsoft 365. Office 365 releases updates on a less regular basis, typically every few months. These updates also include new features, security updates, and bug fixes, but may not be as frequent as those of Microsoft 365. Similarly, Office 365 users can access support through online resources such as documentation and community forums, as well as through direct support from Microsoft experts.
It’s important to note that while Microsoft 365 and Office 365 may differ in the frequency of their updates and support, both offerings are designed to provide users with a reliable and secure productivity suite.
Future Development Roadmap
Microsoft is constantly working on improving both Office 365 and Microsoft 365 to meet the evolving needs of businesses and individuals. While both platforms offer similar features and functionality, there are a few key differences in their future development roadmaps:
| Difference | Office 365 | Microsoft 365 |
| Integration with other Microsoft services | Office 365 will continue to integrate with additional Microsoft services, such as Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive. | Microsoft 365 will further enhance integration with Microsoft services, providing a seamless experience across applications. |
| Advanced security and compliance features | Office 365 will receive security and compliance updates to address emerging threats and regulatory requirements. | Microsoft 365 will prioritize advanced security and compliance features, including AI-powered threat protection and data governance capabilities. |
| Innovation and new features | Office 365 will continue to receive regular updates and new features, improving productivity and collaboration. | Microsoft 365 will focus on delivering innovative features, such as AI-driven productivity enhancements and personalized insights. |
| Pricing and plans | Office 365 offers a range of subscription plans to meet different budget and deployment needs. | Microsoft 365 offers a comprehensive suite of plans, combining Office 365, Windows 10, and Enterprise Mobility + Security for enhanced productivity and security. |
Overall, both Office 365 and Microsoft 365 are committed to providing a modern and integrated productivity solution, but Microsoft 365 offers a more comprehensive package with additional security and productivity features for businesses looking for a complete solution.
Question-answer:
What is the difference between Microsoft 365 and Office 365?
Microsoft 365 is a subscription-based service that includes both the Office 365 suite of productivity apps and additional features like Windows 10 upgrades and security tools. Office 365, on the other hand, is a standalone suite of productivity apps without the extra features included in Microsoft 365.
How much does Microsoft 365 cost compared to Office 365?
The cost of Microsoft 365 varies depending on the specific plan you choose, but generally, it is more expensive than Office 365. This is because Microsoft 365 offers additional features like Windows 10 upgrades and enhanced security tools that are not included in the Office 365 subscription.
Can I upgrade from Office 365 to Microsoft 365?
Yes, you can upgrade from Office 365 to Microsoft 365. Microsoft provides options for upgrading your subscription either through the Microsoft 365 admin center or by contacting their customer support. The upgrade will give you access to additional features and services included in Microsoft 365.
What are the additional features included in Microsoft 365?
Microsoft 365 includes additional features like Windows 10 upgrades, enhanced security tools, mobile device management, and advanced analytics. These features are not included in the Office 365 subscription and provide added value to organizations that choose to subscribe to Microsoft 365.
Can I still use Office applications if I have a Microsoft 365 subscription?
Yes, with a Microsoft 365 subscription, you can still use all the Office applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and others. In fact, Microsoft 365 includes the Office 365 suite of productivity apps as part of its subscription offering, along with additional features and services.
What is the difference between Microsoft 365 and Office 365?
While Microsoft 365 and Office 365 are both productivity suites developed by Microsoft, there are a few key differences between the two. Microsoft 365 includes everything that is offered in Office 365, plus additional features such as enhanced security, device management capabilities, and Windows 10 licenses. Office 365, on the other hand, focuses primarily on the core productivity applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.