The market has shifted toward subscriptions, but as of 2026, you have three distinct paths to getting the software on your machine: 1. The "Buy Once, Own Forever" Path (Office 2024)
Usually around $149.99 - $179.99 . It includes the essentials: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote.
Around $249.99 . This version adds Outlook to the mix.
This is Microsoft's preferred model, where you "rent" the apps for a recurring fee.