Does Surface Laptop 4 Come with Microsoft Office? The Answer Revealed!

The Surface Laptop 4 is a sleek and powerful laptop that offers a premium experience. But does Surface Laptop 4 come with Microsoft Office? This is a common question for potential buyers, as Microsoft Office is a crucial productivity suite for many users. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the details surrounding Microsoft Office on the Surface Laptop 4, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

The Truth About Microsoft Office on Surface Laptop 4

The short answer is no, the Surface Laptop 4 does not come pre-installed with Microsoft Office. However, there are several ways to get access to Microsoft Office on your new Surface Laptop 4, and we’ll discuss each option in detail.

Understanding Microsoft Office Licensing

Before we dive into the options, it’s important to understand the different ways you can obtain a Microsoft Office license. There are two main types:
1. One-Time Purchase: This option allows you to purchase a single license for a specific version of Microsoft Office. Once purchased, you can install it on one device.
2. Subscription-Based: This option offers access to the latest version of Microsoft Office, including all the latest features and updates. You pay a monthly or annual fee for continuous access.

Option 1: Purchase a Microsoft Office License

The most straightforward way to get Microsoft Office on your Surface Laptop 4 is to purchase a standalone license. You can find various versions of Microsoft Office, including:

• Microsoft Office Home & Student 2021: Ideal for home users, this version includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote.
• Microsoft Office Home & Business 2021: This version adds Outlook for email and calendar management, making it suitable for small businesses.
• Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2021: This comprehensive version includes all the features of Home & Business, plus additional tools like Access and Publisher.

You can purchase these licenses directly from Microsoft or authorized retailers.

Option 2: Subscribe to Microsoft 365

Another popular option is to subscribe to Microsoft 365. This subscription-based service gives you access to the latest versions of Microsoft Office apps, including:

• Word
• Excel
• PowerPoint
• Outlook
• OneNote
• Access (for Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions)
• Publisher (for Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions)

Microsoft 365 offers various subscription plans, including:

• Microsoft 365 Personal: For one person, with 1 TB of cloud storage.
• Microsoft 365 Family: For up to 6 people, with 1 TB of cloud storage per person.
• Microsoft 365 Business Basic: For small businesses, with basic business features.
• Microsoft 365 Business Standard: For businesses with more advanced needs, including enhanced security and collaboration features.

Option 3: Free Microsoft Office Online

If you only need basic document editing and collaboration features, you can utilize the free Microsoft Office Online suite. This web-based version of Microsoft Office allows you to create and edit documents, spreadsheets, and presentations directly in your web browser.

Option 4: Utilize Built-in Apps

The Surface Laptop 4 comes with several built-in apps that offer similar functionality to Microsoft Office. These include:

• Windows Notepad: For basic text editing.
• Windows Paint: For simple image editing.
• Microsoft Sticky Notes: For creating quick notes.
• Microsoft To Do: For managing tasks and lists.
• Microsoft Calendar: For scheduling appointments and events.

Choosing the Right Option for You

The best way to get Microsoft Office on your Surface Laptop 4 depends on your individual needs and budget. Consider the following factors:

• Frequency of use: If you use Microsoft Office frequently, a subscription-based option like Microsoft 365 might be more cost-effective.
• Features required: If you need all the latest features and updates, a subscription-based option is the way to go.
• Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, a one-time purchase of Microsoft Office might be more suitable.

The Advantage of Microsoft 365

While purchasing a one-time license offers a cost-effective option, subscribing to Microsoft 365 offers several advantages:

• Always up-to-date: You’ll always have access to the latest features and updates.
• Cloud storage: Microsoft 365 includes generous cloud storage for your files.
• Cross-device compatibility: Access your documents and files across multiple devices.
• Collaboration features: Enhanced collaboration features for working with others.

Making the Decision

Whether you choose to purchase a one-time license or subscribe to Microsoft 365, you’ll have access to the powerful productivity tools you need on your Surface Laptop 4. Evaluate your needs and budget carefully to make the best decision for your situation.

Time to Get Productive!

Now that you understand the different options for getting Microsoft Office on your Surface Laptop 4, it’s time to choose the best solution for your needs. Whether you opt for a one-time purchase, a subscription-based service, or even explore the built-in apps, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle your productivity goals.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. Can I get a free trial of Microsoft 365?
Yes, Microsoft offers a free trial of Microsoft 365 for a limited time. This allows you to try out the features before committing to a subscription.
2. Is there a discount for students or educators?
Yes, Microsoft offers discounted pricing for students and educators on Microsoft 365 and Office licenses.
3. Can I install Microsoft Office on multiple devices with a single license?
The number of devices you can install Microsoft Office on depends on the type of license you purchase. For example, a one-time purchase license typically allows you to install it on one device, while a Microsoft 365 subscription might allow you to install it on multiple devices.
4. What happens if I cancel my Microsoft 365 subscription?
When you cancel your Microsoft 365 subscription, you will lose access to the latest versions of Microsoft Office apps. However, you can continue to use the versions installed on your devices, but you will not receive any further updates.
5. Can I use Microsoft Office Online without a Microsoft 365 subscription?
Yes, you can use Microsoft Office Online for free without a Microsoft 365 subscription. However, you will have limited features and functionality compared to the full versions of Microsoft Office.