Microsoft also has a standalone version of Microsoft Office for Windows and Mac, called Office Home and Student 2021, for a flat $150 - no subscription required. The suite typically costs $20 to $100 a year for subscription access across devices and family members. Microsoft's suite of productivity software consists of classics like Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook, as well as newer apps like Microsoft Teams, OneDrive and SharePoint.

However, you can snag Microsoft 365 at no cost under some circumstances. 11, Microsoft announced the release of Microsoft 365 Basic which costs $2 a month, or $20 for a yearly subscription. Some of the programs include Word, Outlook and Powerpoint, and buying a Microsoft 365 membership is still the most popular way to access these tools and more. Microsoft 365 is the most recent version of the Microsoft Office set of tools, and it includes programs that you already use at home, school or work.

This story is part of 12 Days of Tips, helping you make the most of your tech, home and health during the holiday season.

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