Now that Microsoft Office 2024 is officially out, many users are questioning if they should upgrade from their Office 2021! Because the big question is – What are the differences between Office 2024 and Office 2021 — and of course, which is the best choice?

Join us for an in-depth comparison to explore the key differences between the two versions — new features to note, system requirements, AI improvements and more! We’ll also give you an easy-to-read table of pros and cons and show you where to buy these products!

Office 2024 vs Office 2021 – What's Different?

On the surface, Office 2024 and Office 2021 look alike — both include all the fundamental Microsoft apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook. But still, there are many reasons that Office 2024 is a more powerful and future-proof option. Now, let us discuss the key differences.

Microsoft Office 2024 Adds AI-Enhanced Capabilities

One of the major upgrades is Microsoft’s AI-powered offerings, which has made Office 2024 a far smarter beast than Office 2021. Microsoft has rolled out Copilot AI for multiple Office apps and provides capabilities like:

✅ AI-Powered Writing Assistant – Word suggests phrasing articulation, summaries, and formatting inferences based on AI analysis.

✅ Smart Data Insights – Excel has AI-powered recommendations for data trends and predictive analytics.

✅ Automated PowerPoint Enhancements – AI generates slide layouts, content summaries, and visual improvement suggestions.

Smart automation is also not possible with Office 2021, which can only be availed of by Office 2024.

Office 2024 Does Not Have Publisher – Where Did it Go?

Microsoft Publisher isn't included in Office 2024! Microsoft removed Microsoft’s longtime desktop publishing tool, Publisher, with the Office 2024 version, forcing users who depend on it to search for alternatives.

But why was Publisher removed? Here are some reasons

Fallen User Base – The demand for Publisher is decreasing, with the increased popularity of Canva, Adobe InDesign, or design directly built into Word.

Emphasis on Cloud Services – With a focus on cloud capture, Microsoft is working to continue developing SharePoint and Power Automate as cloud-based solutions.

Unforgivably Unfriendly – The problem is, Copilot AI just doesn’t play well with Publisher. There is no connector to Integrate with Publisher, and so Microsoft decided to kill it.

If Publisher is still a requirement for you than the better option is Office 2021 which includes Publisher 2021.

Office 2024 vs. Office 2021 Key Differences at a Glance

Here’s a comprehensive table of the key differences between Office 2024 and Office 2021!

The AI-Powered Features of Office 2024

AI integration is one of the biggest selling points of Office 2024, which aims to increase productivity and automate time-consuming tasks. Microsoft’s Copilot AI is integrated into Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, providing real-time suggestions, document generation, and improved collaboration tools.

Word – Helps you draft content, corrects grammar, and suggests smart texts to make writing and editing easier to do!

Excel – Copilot can analyze vast datasets, create charts automatically on demand, and generate formulas based on natural queries!

PowerPoint – Fabulously-designed slides in no time, thanks to AI!

Create Your Own Solutions – Smart email summaries, AI-driven inbox prioritization, automatic reply suggestions.

For professionals, businesses, and students needing help with writing, data management, and presentations — these AI tools make Office 2024 the best option!

Collaboration and Cloud Integration

Office 2024 enhances collaboration and cloud features! Although Office 2021 supports sharing files in the cloud via OneDrive, its new version is able to upload files faster, allows for better real-time co-authoring and improved access to the cloud.

Notable improvements to Office 2024 include:

• Editing in real time on multiple devices so that teams can work simultaneously on the same doc.
• Integration of OneDrive to access and sync files seamlessly in desktop and cloud.
• Speedier ways to share documents for greater workplace productivity.

If you operate in a group setting where working together on documents is a necessity, then Office 2024 is the better choice. But for users who mainly work offline or don’t need advanced collaboration tools, Office 2021 is still a solid option.

System Requirements – Will Your PC Be Able To Run Office 2024?

Hardware compatibility is one of the key factors about whether to go with Office 2024 or Office 2021. Both versions of Office 2024 deliver on Windows 10 and Windows 11, although Office 2024 requires more powerful hardware based on its inclusion of AI-powered tools and performance improvements.

Here’s a comparison of system requirements:

People with older or lower-end-PCs will face performance problems from using Office 2024, making Office 2021 a better option for them. But if you have modern systems, of course, Office 2024 offers better speed, efficiency, and future-proofing.

Should You Upgrade to Office 2024?

Whether or not to upgrade is entirely up to your use of Microsoft Office and what you need. For AI-powered tools, improved collaboration, and future-proofed features, Office 2024 is the obvious winner.

However, if you want a tried and true Office experience, need Publisher, or have an older PC, Office 2021 is still a solid pick.

Here’s a very simple breakdown:

• Get Office 2024 for AI Improvements, real-time collaboration, and performance enhancements.
• If you want a simpler, lightweight option that still includes Publisher, opt for Office 2021.

In both cases, that means there are no recurring subscription fees as there are with Microsoft 365.

How to Purchase Office 2024 and Office 2021?

One of the best places to purchase Office 2024 or 2021 right now is EcoKeys. EcoKeys is Microsoft Office genuine license seller with a massive happy clientele. Here’s where you can buy the two version!

Get Office 2024 → Microsoft Office 2024 Download License Key 

Get Office 2021→ Microsoft Office 2021 Professional Plus  

EcoKeys provides secure and verified license keys instantly delivered to you digitally for an immediate purchase of your Microsoft software.

Final Thoughts - Microsoft Office 2024 vs. Office 2021 Comparison

Ultimately, if you want to embrace the productivity and collaboration improvements made possible through commitment to AI and if you are seeking ongoing support, your choice is clear — Office 2024.

For those who want the latest AI features and a better cloud experience, Office 2024 is the way to go. However, If you’re fine with a stable, familiar version of Office that offers Publisher (and other programs that will never be updated), Office 2021 is a still-reasonable option!

Either way you go you can feel initially safe when buying from EcoKeys as purchasing brings you an official Microsoft license without any extra costs or subscription fees!