September 24, 2018 has seen the launch of Microsoft Office 2019. This new version succeeds the previous Office 2016 version for desktop applications. Each application has been updated including Access, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Project, Publisher, Visio and Word.
Many of the new enhancements are features which have already been incorporated into the Microsoft Offie 365 ProPlus programs, however, are now being made available for those purchasing box product copies of the Microsoft Office suite.
An article was released by Jared Spataro, Corporate Vice President for Office and Windows Marketing where the new key features have been outlined. The article (link below) is a great read for anyone looking to potentially upgrade to this new version in the future.
Office 2019 is now available for Windows and Mac
Difference between Office 2019 and Office 365
You may be curious about the difference between Office 2019 and Office 365. Office 365 is often mistakenly identified as “just Office in the cloud” however there are significant differences between the two in terms of functionality and pricing points.
Firstly when buying Office 2019 (which would be traditionally referred to as a “box product”), you are buying the software in a one-off payment option. This means you pay a one-off fee to buy the software outright where it is an “as is” version. No updates, no changes to functionality in the future but you also own it forever. Office 2019 is a single computer licence so each computer within your home or organisation requires its own licenced copy.
Office 365, however, is a cloud-based solution but gives you the ongoing benefits of a lower cost point and ongoing updates. Microsoft Office 365 has monthly enhancements which can be downloaded instantly to be used by Office 365 users. You are also able to pick the subscription level you need based on which programs you use and additional apps you would like access to. There are subscription levels for home and business/enterprise users which give different functionality. Office 365 subscriptions can be used on multiple devices such as PC, tablet and smartphone all within the one subscription plan.
Personally, I use both products because of the diversity of training I conduct with clients, I always like to ensure I demonstrate and run training in the same version a client is using.
For a full comparison of the Office 365 subscription levels be sure to take a look at the Office 365 Comparison chart.
New Features
Lifehacker.com has created a great list of new features being included in Office 2019 and is well worth a read.
Where to Buy
When it comes to purchasing any Microsoft products, whether it is a box product or Office 365 license it is important to make sure you purchase from a reputable reseller or buy direct from Microsoft. I have seen many people over the years trying to find “a good deal” and end up purchasing licenses which are in fact fake. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
When purchasing box products you can purchase directly from Microsoft or using a reputable reseller.
Beltan Consultancy is a registered reseller with Dicker Data Pty Ltd who are licensed to provide hardware & software licencing including Microsoft products. Check out some product pricing below or contact us for more details.
As of 24 October 2018
- Microsoft Office 2019 HOME & BUSINESS (SKU T5D-03251): AUD$349.00
- Microsoft Office 2019 PROFESSIONAL (Electronic Licence SKU 269-17070): AUD$639.00
For Office 365 subscriptions I recommend dealing directly with Microsoft to purchase licenses. Many resellers are offering Office 365 subscriptions however the platform has been customised and modified and is different to the functionality you get going directly through Microsoft, be sure to check this before proceeding with using a reseller for Office 365.
