Surface pro – your productivity companion: office included?

When investing in a new device like the Surface Pro, one of the first questions that may arise is whether it comes bundled with Microsoft Office. This productivity suite is essential for many users, and its inclusion can significantly impact the overall value of the device. In this blog post, we will delve into the question of “does Surface Pro come with Office” and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the available options.

Office Availability on Surface Pro

The answer to the question of whether Surface Pro comes with Office depends on the specific model and configuration you choose. Here’s a breakdown of the different options:

1. Surface Pro with Windows 10 Home:

• No: Surface Pro with Windows 10 Home does not come with Microsoft Office pre-installed. You will need to purchase an Office subscription or a standalone Office license separately.

2. Surface Pro with Windows 10 Pro:

• Yes: Surface Pro with Windows 10 Pro comes with a one-year subscription to Microsoft 365 Personal. This subscription includes access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other Office applications.

3. Surface Pro with Windows 11 Home:

• No: Surface Pro with Windows 11 Home does not come with Microsoft Office pre-installed. You will need to purchase an Office subscription or a standalone Office license separately.

4. Surface Pro with Windows 11 Pro:

• Yes: Surface Pro with Windows 11 Pro comes with a one-year subscription to Microsoft 365 Personal. This subscription includes access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other Office applications.

Benefits of Microsoft 365 on Surface Pro

If your Surface Pro comes with a Microsoft 365 subscription, you can enjoy several benefits, including:

• Access to the latest Office applications: Microsoft 365 provides access to the latest versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other Office applications.
• Cloud storage and collaboration: Microsoft 365 offers 1TB of cloud storage with OneDrive, making it easy to store, share, and collaborate on your documents.
• Enhanced security: Microsoft 365 includes advanced security features to protect your data and privacy.
• Regular updates: Microsoft 365 is constantly updated with new features and security enhancements, ensuring you have the best possible experience.

Purchasing Office for Surface Pro

If you choose a Surface Pro model that does not come with Microsoft 365, you have several options for purchasing Office:

1. Microsoft 365 Subscription:

• You can purchase a Microsoft 365 subscription directly from Microsoft or through authorized retailers.
• Subscriptions offer access to the latest Office applications, cloud storage, and other benefits.

2. Standalone Office License:

• You can purchase a standalone Office license for a one-time fee.
• This option provides access to the Office applications only, without cloud storage or other benefits.

Alternatives to Microsoft Office

If you do not wish to use Microsoft Office, there are several alternative productivity suites available:

• Google Workspace: Google’s productivity suite includes Docs, Sheets, Slides, and other applications.
• Apple iWork: Apple’s productivity suite includes Pages, Numbers, and Keynote.
• FreeOffice: FreeOffice is a free and open-source productivity suite that offers similar functionality to Microsoft Office.

Choosing the Right Option for You

The best option for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

• Usage: How often will you use Office applications?
• Features: Which Office features are essential for you?
• Budget: How much are you willing to spend on Office?

Wrapping Up

The question of “does Surface Pro come with Office” has been answered. Depending on the model and configuration you choose, Surface Pro may or may not come with a Microsoft 365 subscription. If it does, you can enjoy the benefits of the latest Office applications, cloud storage, and enhanced security. If not, you have several options for purchasing Office or using alternative productivity suites. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and budget.

FAQ

Q1. Can I upgrade my Microsoft 365 Personal subscription to Microsoft 365 Family?

A: Yes, you can upgrade your Microsoft 365 Personal subscription to Microsoft 365 Family at an additional cost.

Q2. Is Microsoft 365 available on all Surface Pro models?

A: No, Microsoft 365 is only available on Surface Pro models with Windows 10 Pro or Windows 11 Pro.

Q3. Can I use Office applications without an internet connection?

A: Yes, you can use Office applications offline, but you will need to activate your Office subscription online first.