Editions and Pricing of Office 2016: A Complete Guide
Office 2016 was a big deal when it came out because it gave people cool tools to get work done on their computers. It’s still useful today for people who want simple programs that just work. Even though newer versions are out, a lot of people still use Office 2016 because it’s easy to use and gets the job done.
Office 2016 was super important when Microsoft released it because it brought a bunch of updates and looked nicer than the older ones. Lots of people still use it because it’s easy to understand and has all the basics. This version is still a favorite for people who don’t want to pay monthly and like having full control of their software.
For people who just want programs like Word and Excel to write papers or make charts, Office 2016 works well. You don’t need the internet to use it, and you don’t have to worry about paying again later. That’s why it’s awesome for students, families, and anyone who doesn’t need all the extra stuff in newer versions.
Office 2016 Home & Student
The Office 2016 Home & Student edition was made for kids in school and people at home who just want the main programs. No need to worry about the hassle of monthly fees: once you have bought this product, it is yours forever without further expenses on your account.
Key Features:
- One-time purchase for one PC
- Access to core applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote
- No commercial use rights.
- Perpetual licensing; no renewal fee forever. Automatic updates are provided free of charge forever
- Only Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. Nothing else.
However—and this point should be stressed again—that’s plenty good for writing reports or typing down some quick notes after class at college. It’s super good for students because it has all the tools you’ll use most often. And since it’s made just for one computer, it’s simple and not too expensive.
Office 2016 Home & Business
If you’re someone who runs a small business or works from home, then Office 2016 Home & Business is probably what you need. It has all the same programs as the student one but adds Outlook, which is super useful for emails and calendars. This version is cool because you can use it for your job or business without breaking any rules.
Key Features:
- One-time purchase for one PC
- Includes Outlook for email and calendar management
- Licensed for home and commercial use
- Integration with business email accounts
A lot of people like it because it keeps all your messages and meetings in one place, which helps you stay organized. It’s not just for offices either—it works for freelancers or anyone who wants to be more professional. Also, since it’s licensed for commercial use, you won’t get into trouble using it for work.
Office 2016 Professional
The Office 2016 Professional version is for people who need every tool Microsoft has. Along with Word, Excel, and all that, it includes Access and Publisher, which are good for big projects or running a company. This version is the most complete one and is meant for people who use Office for serious stuff.
Key Features:
- One-time purchase for one PC
- Includes all applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Outlook, Access, Publisher
- Licensed for commercial use
- Advanced data management and publication tools
If you need to create databases or design flyers and newsletters, this edition lets you do all that. It’s best for companies or people who handle lots of data and need everything in one place. Even though it costs more, it’s worth it if you use the extra apps regularly.
Office 2016 Volume Licensing
Schools, businesses, and even the government sometimes use Volume Licensing so they can install Office 2016 on a bunch of computers at once. This makes it way easier than buying a separate copy for every single computer. It helps big groups save money and manage all the software better.
Key Features:
- Flexible licensing agreements
- Volume activation methods
- Software Assurance benefits
- Customizable deployment options
Tech teams in schools and offices like it because they can install updates and programs for everyone at the same time. It’s also useful when you want to make sure everyone is using the same version. Plus, the software assurance deal gives you some extra help like training and customer support.
License Models: Retail vs. OEM
When you buy Office 2016, it can be through a retail license or an OEM license, and the one you pick changes how you can use it. A retail license is more flexible and can be moved to a new computer. On the other hand, OEM licenses are cheaper but get stuck on the device they come with.
Retail License:
- Transferable between devices
- Includes full support from Microsoft
- Higher upfront cost
OEM License:
- Tied to the original device
- Limited support options
- Lower cost included in device purchase
Retail is good if you think you’ll get a new computer soon, but OEM works if you just want something simple that stays put. It depends on if you want flexibility or to save money. Either way, it’s good to know what you’re buying so you don’t get stuck later.
Retail vs. OEM
Feature | Retail License | OEM License |
Transferability | Can be transferred to a new computer | Stays locked to the original device |
Support | Full Microsoft support included | Limited or no direct Microsoft support |
Cost | Higher upfront cost | Usually cheaper (cost included with the PC) |
Flexibility | Great if you plan to upgrade or change devices | Best if you’re keeping the same computer |
Ideal For | People who want more control and future-proof options | Users who want a basic setup with low costs |
Office 365 vs. Office 2016
Some people get confused between Office 2016 and Office 365, but they’re pretty different. Office 2016 is a one-time deal that stays the same, while Office 365 (now called Microsoft 365) keeps changing and updating. Office 365 comes with extra stuff like online storage and Teams for video chats.
Office 2016:
- One-time purchase
- Installed on one device
- No feature updates
Office 365:
- Subscription-based
- Access on multiple devices
- Regular feature updates
- Includes cloud services like OneDrive and Teams
If you don’t want to pay every month, go with Office 2016, but if you like new updates and working online, Office 365 is better. It’s really about whether you want to own it forever or always have the latest tools. Some people even use both for different reasons, which is kind of smart.
Office 365 vs. Office 2016: Side-by-Side Comparison
Category | Office 2016 | Office 365 / Microsoft 365 |
Type of Purchase | One-time payment only | Subscription you pay monthly or yearly |
Device Limit | Only works on one computer | Works on lots of devices—like PC, Mac, tablet |
Updates | You don’t get any new features later | Always getting the newest tools and updates |
Extra Tools | Just the apps (Word, Excel, etc.) | Comes with cloud tools like OneDrive and Teams |
Who It’s Good For | People who don’t want to pay again later | People who want all the new features and online tools |
Upgrade Pathways
Eventually, people using Office 2016 might want to upgrade to something newer. Luckily, Microsoft gives a few different ways to do that, depending on what you’re looking for. You can either buy a newer version or sign up for a Microsoft 365 subscription instead.
Upgrade Options:
- Purchasing a newer Office version
- Subscribing to Microsoft 365
- Utilizing upgrade discounts or promotions
If you decide to upgrade, make sure your computer works with the new version. Also, think about whether you’ll miss anything from Office 2016 before switching. And sometimes Microsoft offers special deals, so you could save money when you switch.
People Also Ask
Is Office 2016 still supported by Microsoft?
Yes! Microsoft ended mainstream support for Office 2016 in 2020, but extended support goes until October 2025. That means you’ll still get important updates but no new features. So it’s safe to keep using it for a while, but just remember that time’s ticking and it won’t last forever.
Can I install Office 2016 on multiple devices?
If you buy the retail version, you can move it to another computer, but only one at a time. Volume licenses and some business plans let you install it on more, but regular users usually get just one. It’s super important to read the license rules so you don’t accidentally break them.
Where to Buy & Current Pricing
You can still buy Office 2016 from places like Amazon or the Microsoft Store, but prices can be all over the place. Some versions are super cheap, while others are more expensive, depending on what’s included. It’s best to shop around and check if you’re getting the full version with all the programs you want.
Reliable Purchase Options:
- Microsoft Store for official versions
- Amazon or Best Buy for retail boxes or downloads
- Authorized resellers like FastSoftwares
- OEM licenses included with new devices
Make sure the site you buy from is trusted, so you don’t end up with fake or broken software. And check if they give you a key or just a download—both work, but it’s good to know. If you’re looking for a trusted place to get it, check out FastSoftwares for real deals and good help.
Comparison Table of Editions
Sometimes it’s hard to keep track of what each Office 2016 version includes, so it helps to look at a side-by-side comparison. A comparison table shows you which programs come with each edition and how much they cost. This makes it easier to figure out which version is best for you or your family without guessing.
Major Edition Differences:
- Home & Student: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote—personal use only
- Home & Business: Adds Outlook—okay for work too
- Professional: Includes Access and Publisher — made for advanced users
- Volume Licensing: For schools, companies, or anyone needing many installations
Even if they all say “Office 2016,” they’re not the same, and some have more tools than others. Choosing the right one depends on what you use—like if you just need to write and present or also manage emails and make designs. So the table isn’t just helpful—it’s kind of a must-have for anyone shopping around.
Office 2016 Editions: What's Included
Edition | Included Programs | Best For |
Home & Student | Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote | Students and families who only need the basics |
Home & Business | Everything in Home & Student + Outlook | Small business owners or professionals need email |
Professional | Everything in Home & Business + Access and Publisher | Advanced users, designers, and database managers |
Volume Licensing | All Professional tools, customizable for multiple devices | Schools, large companies, and organizations needing bulk installs |
Conclusion
Office 2016 is still a solid choice if you want a one-time purchase of Microsoft Office that won’t change you every month. It has important apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and you can pick an edition that fits your needs. Whether you’re in school, working, or just typing stuff at home, there’s an edition that’ll work for you.
Even though newer versions exist, a lot of people stick with Office 2016 because it’s reliable, simple, and still gets updates. Just make sure you’re buying from a safe place, and you’ll be set for a while. If you’re ready to buy a version of Office 2016 that fits your needs, check out SoftwareCarry—they make it easy, fast, and affordable.
