Microsoft continues to innovate in Office productivity software, and each new Office release brings improvements. In this blog, we’ll cover the key differences between the latest Office 2024 version and Office 2021. We’ll discuss new features, performance enhancements, security updates, and the suitability of each package for different user groups.
The Key Differences between Office 2024 & 2021
Microsoft Office 2024 brings several significant improvements compared to Office 2021. One of the most notable differences is the refreshed user interface based on Fluent Design principles. This provides a more consistent experience across applications, especially optimized for Windows 11. Additionally, Office 2024 focuses heavily on artificial intelligence (AI). For example, Word offers advanced writing suggestions, and Excel allows users to create dynamic charts that automatically adjust to changing data—features that are not available in the 2021 version of Office.
New Features in Office 2024
Office 2024 introduces several innovative features designed to make your work easier and more efficient. These smart additions help you spend less time on routine tasks compared to Office 2021.
New Features:
• New Default Theme: A more consistent and natural experience across all apps with a refreshed design.
• Improved Accessibility: New tools and features that make documents and presentations more accessible.
• Insert Images from Mobile Devices: Insert photos directly from Android devices.
• Support for ODF 1.4: New features for the Open Document Format.
• Like Reaction on Comments: Quickly support new responses and comments.
• Dynamic Charts: Charts that adapt to dynamic arrays in Excel.
• New Text and Array Functions: Fourteen new functions for text manipulation in Excel.
• New IMAGE Function: Easily add images to Excel workbooks.
• Faster Workbooks: Enhanced speed and stability in Excel.
• Cameo Presentation: Insert live camera feed into PowerPoint slides.
• Video Recording in Recording Studio: Record presentations as video files.
• Adding Subtitles: Support for subtitles in presentations.
• Improved Search Function in Outlook: Better search results for emails and calendars.
• More Meeting Options: Automatically shorten meetings.
• Restore Word Sessions: Automatically reopen documents after a crash.
• Enhanced Ink and Drawing Features in OneNote: Immediate ink transitions and more color and size options.
• Dataverse Connector with Power Platform: New cloud solutions and integrations.
• More Shapes and Templates in Visio: Expanded library for diagrams.
*Available in our assortment in the coming months
App-Specific Improvements in Office 2024
Each application in Office 2024 includes unique upgrades compared to Office 2021:
• Excel: New analysis tools and data visualization options for easier data management and presentation.
• Word: Stronger writing assistance and formatting support to help you create more professional documents.
• PowerPoint: Enhanced design options and smoother transitions for professional presentations.
• Outlook: Simplified email management to help you quickly find important messages and keep your inbox organized.
User Interface and Design Office 2024 vs Office 2021
Microsoft has further improved the interface in Office 2024 for a user-friendly experience. While the changes seem minimal, they help you navigate faster and personalize your work more easily. These interface updates contribute to a more efficient workflow compared to Office 2021.
Performance and Speed
With Office 2024, you’ll notice that programs load faster and run more smoothly, especially when working with larger files or complex tasks in Excel or PowerPoint. The system requirements are similar to those of Office 2021, but Office 2024 is better optimized for modern hardware.
Security and Privacy Office 2024 vs Office 2021
Security remains a top priority for many companies in the modern world. Microsoft has added extra security features in Office 2024. With advanced security layers and enhanced phishing and malware detection, this version provides better protection for your data than Office 2021. This is especially important if your organization handles sensitive data and requires confidence in its protection.
Suitability for Different Users
Depending on your needs, Office 2021 or Office 2024 may be the better choice:
• Office 2021 is ideal for users who want reliable software without the need for frequent updates and optimal data protection. The LTSC versions of Office do not have regular updates. These versions are supported long-term, making frequent updates unnecessary.
• Office 2024 is better suited for users and organizations looking for the latest AI tools and enhanced security.
Switching to Microsoft Office 2024?
Whether you should switch to Office 2024 or stick with Office 2021 depends on your needs and budget. For the latest features and security options, Office 2024 is worth the investment. With Softtrader, you can also save on this investment. In the coming months, Office 2024 will be available in our assortment. If you wait a little while to purchase Microsoft Office 2024, you can save up to 70% off the new price at Softtrader. Request a free quote or contact us!
