apache-openoffice-vs-microsoft-365

Apache OpenOffice and Microsoft Office 365 are both office suites software that include features like document creation and presentation creation.  Apache OpenOffice is an open source software that is most popular with small businesses, likely because it is highly customizable and available for free.  Microsoft Office 365 is popular with businesses of all sizes due to its versatility and wide variety of integrations. 

Features

Apache OpenOffice and Microsoft Office 365 both include essential office suites features such as spreadsheet creation, but they also have a few standout features that set them apart from each other.

Apache OpenOffice is an open source software that includes a wide variety of features including a picture gallery and diagramming tools that can be implemented easily.  Additionally, Apache OpenOffice can handle most document filetypes.  Lastly, Apache OpenOffice is lightweight and not demanding of technical resources.  The low demands of Apache OpenOffice allow it to run quickly and smoothly even on weaker machines.

Microsoft Office 365 provides cloud storage and sharing features, so users can access their documents on any device and easily share them with others.  Additionally, Microsoft Office 365 provides online versions of most of their office software, allowing users to use office software without any installation.  Lastly, Microsoft Office 365 is supported by mobile devices, allowing users to view and edit documents on the go.

Limitations

Apache OpenOffice and Microsoft Office 365 both have robust office suites features, they also have a few limitations that are important to consider. 

Apache OpenOffice offers a lightweight and powerful desktop application, but it doesn’t have a web or mobile application.  Businesses that want to use a web application or access documents on their mobile devices may consider other options.  Additionally, Apache OpenOffice doesn’t have built-in cloud support, so businesses that want to store documents on the cloud will need to consider other options or invest in a cloud storage solution to go along with the office suites software.

Microsoft 365 is a more demanding program then Apache OpenOffice.  Businesses that use weaker machines or are seeking high-speed software should consider other options.  Additionally, Microsoft can be more difficult to implement than Apache OpenOffice, which can easily be added to any technology infrastructure.

Pricing

Apache Open Office is an open source software, meaning it can be downloaded and used for free.

Microsoft Office 365 offers several pricing packages.  The Business Basic Package includes desktop versions of all their office products for $5.00 per user per month.  The Business Standard Package includes desktop and web versions of every application, as well as additional cloud storage for $12.50 per user per month. Lastly, the Business Premium Package includes all the office applications, as well as additional device management features and security features.