How to choose between Office 2019, 2021 and 2024?
Complete comparison of 3 Office versions: features, prices, compatibility. Which Office to choose for your needs in 2026?
Microsoft offers three perpetual versions of Office: 2019, 2021, and 2024. Each has its own specificities, advantages, and target audience. This comprehensive guide helps you choose the version suited to your needs.
Quick Comparison Table
| Criteria | Office 2019 | Office 2021 | Office 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Release year | 2018 | 2021 | 2024 |
| Windows 11 | ⚠️ Partially | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Average price | $169 - $199 | $219 - $249 | $259 - $289 |
| Microsoft support | Until Oct. 2025 | Until Oct. 2026 | Until Oct. 2029 |
| Dark theme | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| XLOOKUP (Excel) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Copilot AI | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (option) |
Office 2019: The Budget Choice for Windows 10
Who is Office 2019 for?
Office 2019 is the legacy version launched in late 2018. Although it's the oldest of the three, it remains perfectly functional for classic office tasks. It's primarily aimed at Windows 10 users who want to minimize their budget while accessing proven versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
This version is particularly suitable for small businesses, associations, or freelancers whose office needs are standard: document writing, simple Excel spreadsheets, basic PowerPoint presentations. If you don't need the latest Microsoft innovations and your IT runs on Windows 10, Office 2019 represents excellent value.
Office 2019 Limitations in 2026
The main drawback of Office 2019 is its limited Microsoft support. Extended support ends in October 2025, meaning no more security patches or updates after that date.
💡 Expert Advice
Office 2019 is only recommended if you're on Windows 10 and your budget is very tight. For long-term use (5-10 years), choose Office 2021 or 2024.
Office 2021: The Best Compromise for 2026
Why Office 2021 is the Most Popular
Office 2021 is currently the best-selling version. Launched in October 2021, it brings significant improvements over 2019 while remaining financially accessible.
✅ 2026 Recommendation
Office 2021 Professional Plus is our #1 choice for 90% of users: excellent value, Windows 11 compatible, modern features, long-term support.
How to Choose: Your Needs and Budget
Choose Office 2019 if...
- You're on Windows 10 and don't plan to migrate to Windows 11
- Your budget is very tight (<$170)
- Your office needs are basic
Choose Office 2021 if...
- You're looking for the best value for money
- You use or plan to use Windows 11
- You want a modern interface with dark theme
Choose Office 2024 if...
- You want the latest Microsoft innovations
- You plan to use Copilot AI (for an additional fee)
- Your budget allows an investment of $259+
Conclusion
For the majority of users in 2026, Office 2021 Professional Plus remains the optimal choice.