Microsoft Office 2019 or 2021 – Which Version Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for a perpetual Office license, you’re probably choosing between Office 2019 Professional Plus and Office 2021 Professional Plus. Both versions are one-time purchases and are activated for life — with no monthly fee. But which is more suitable in 2025? Below, we’ll compare features, price, support, and system requirements so you can make an informed decision.

Quick Overview of the Perpetual Versions

Feature	Office 2019 Pro Plus	Office 2021 Pro Plus
License Type	Lifetime, 1 PC	Lifetime, 1 PC
Release Date	Sept 2018	Oct 2021
Supported OS	Win 10 1809+, Win Server 2019	Win 10 2004+, Win 11, Win Server 2022
Cloud Collaboration	✗	✔ (Real-time co-authoring)
New Excel Functions (XLOOKUP, LET)	✗	✔
Visual Refresh (Fluent UI)	✗	✔
Performance +64-bit boosts	Basic	Up to 15% faster

The product installs locally and does not require a subscription.
You receive only security updates – no new features after purchase.

System Requirements and Compatibility

Office 2019: Windows 10 1809 or newer, Windows Server 2019.
Office 2021: Windows 10 2004, Windows 11, Windows Server 2022.
RAM / CPU:Minimum 2 GB RAM and dual-core processor; 4 GB+ recommended.
Disk: ~4 GB free space.
GPU: For 3D models and PowerPoint Morph — DirectX 12 compatible card.

Note: If you’re still using Windows 7/8.1, neither version is officially supported. Upgrade to Windows 10 or Windows 11.

Functional Differences (Details)

1- New Features in Office 2021
XLOOKUP, XMATCH, LET – powerful formulas in Excel.
Co-authoring + AutoSave – collaborate with colleagues in real time via OneDrive.
PowerPoint Ink Replay – displays handwritten annotations as a video.
Visual Refresh – Fluent UI ribbons matching the Windows 11 style.
Microsoft Teams (consumer) – built-in client with instant chat.

2- What’s Missing in Office 2019
Office 2019 is a “snapshot” from 2018 – you get the classic apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) without cloud collaboration and without the latest formulas. It’s sufficient for solo users but more limited for teamwork.

Support and Security

Version	Mainstream Support	Extended Security
Office 2019	until 10.10.2023 г. (ended)	until 14.10.2025 г.
Office 2021	until 13.10.2026 г.	until 14.10.2028 г.

After 2025, Office 2019 will only receive critical patches via Extended Security; after 2028, Office 2021 will also go out of support. If you plan to use the suite for more than 3 years, Office 2021 is the longer-term solution.

Price and value for money

Store	Office 2019 Pro Plus	Office 2021 Pro Plus
Microsoft Store BG	579 BGN.	699 BGN.
DigitalSoft4U	39 €	49 €
Plasico.bg	109 BGN.	129 BGN.
Bizhelp.bg	99 BGN.	119 BGN.

Prices verified in May 2025. DigitalSoft4U issues invoices with 0% VAT for companies outside BG.

When to Choose Office 2019

You work only locally and don’t need real-time file sharing.
You have older hardware (Win 10 1809) and want a budget-friendly option.

You don’t need the new XLOOKUP/LET functions.

When to Choose Office 2021

You use Windows 11 and want a consistent Fluent design.
You collaborate in teams → co-authoring + AutoSave are invaluable.
You want longer support (security until 2028).
You rely on the newest Excel formulas and PowerPoint effects.

FAQ

Does Office 2019 support Windows 7?
Only through the Office 2019 LTSC version, which is limited and more expensive; the standard Pro Plus version cannot be installed on Windows 7.

Can I upgrade from Office 2019 to 2021 at a discount?
There is no official upgrade SKU. You need to purchase a new key for Office 2021.

Do I need to pay a subscription?
No. Both versions are perpetual – you pay once and activate for a lifetime.

Is Microsoft Teams included?
Office 2021 includes Teams (consumer). Office 2019 does not.

Conclusion

Office 2019 remains a solid choice if budget is a priority and you work independently.
Office 2021 offers longer support, a modern design, collaboration tools, and new formulas – ideal for team environments and Windows 11.

Whichever version you choose, make sure you use a genuine license to receive security updates and support directly from Microsoft.