You can get Word for free, completely legally. Microsoft offers a few really simple solutions.
Microsoft Word Online
One free Microsoft Word method is Word Online. It's the quickest and easiest way to use Word without paying. It's available through a web browser (just like Google Docs) on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and supports all major web browsers including Edge, Chrome, Safari, etc.
Word Online automatically uses Microsoft OneDrive for storage, so saved documents are accessible on any device with an internet connection. OneDrive's free plan has limited storage, but because Word documents are typically small, you can create and store hundreds of documents. Alternatively, you can download your Word document to your computer before closing the web browser.
Microsoft Office Online Review
Microsoft 365 for Mobile
If you are going to go the mobile route, Microsoft offers the free Microsoft 365 app for Android and iOS. You can download it from the Google Play Store on Android or Apple App Store on iOS.
Like Word Online, the mobile app requires a Microsoft account and will save documents to OneDrive by default. And it bundles Word with other popular Office apps including Excel and PowerPoint. Unlike the web-based version, the mobile app can access offline files so you can work without an internet connection.
The Microsoft 365 app is a bit more basic than Word Online, but it supports all the essentials. It lets you open documents, change text, format text, create new documents, export to PDF, and share and print files.
In our experience, it's far easier to use on a mobile device than Word Online, which is often buggy or slow when used from a phone or tablet. The dedicated app feels slick and fast even on older devices.
There's an important version of Microsoft Word you can't use for free: the desktop app.
This is a source of confusion for those who buy a new computer that comes with a Microsoft 365 trial. Most Windows installations have Word and other Microsoft apps installed by default. You can launch the desktop version of Word to view documents for free, but editing is locked until you pay.
12 Best Free Alternatives to MS Word
Other Ways to Use Microsoft Word for Free
Microsoft Word Online and the Microsoft 365 app are the most common ways to use Word for free. However, there are a few situations that might let you access Word without paying:
Microsoft 365 Family account: Microsoft 365 supports family sharing with up to five other people. This is a great way to access Word at no added cost.
Older Word version with a license: Older versions of Word lack the latest features, but they'll handle the basics. It's worth giving an older version of Word a shot if you have a license key available.
Word Mobile: Microsoft offers Word Mobile to use on devices with a screen size no larger than 10.1 inches. Larger devices can open the app but can't use it to edit documents without payment. This version of free Word works on Windows 10 v15063.0 and higher.
Microsoft Word Can be Free, but Know the Limitations
Using Microsoft Word for free comes with limitations. These vary based on your platform but, in general, using a free edition of Word will restrict formatting and page setup options to a basic set of tools. In other words, if you're used to using the desktop version of Word, you'll have to sacrifice some features when you switch to the free edition.
Additionally, you need a Microsoft account. This isn't all bad considering most Windows users already have one and it's easy to make a new Microsoft account if necessary.
FAQ
How do I get Microsoft Word free for students?
Students and teachers may be able to get Microsoft 365 for free, and therefore get Word free. Visit Microsoft's Office 365 web page to check your eligibility by entering a school email address and selecting Get Started.
What is a free alternative to Microsoft Word?
Check out our reviews of the best free online word processors to find a free Microsoft Word alternative. Options include Google Docs, Zoho Writer, ONLYOFFICE Personal, and Calmly Writer Online.
How do I download Microsoft Word for Mac?
To get Microsoft Word for Mac, download it from the Mac App Store as a standalone app or as part of the Microsoft 365 bundle. However, either way, you'll need a Microsoft 365 subscription. To test the program on your Mac,sign up for a free trial of Microsoft 365.
Is there a free version of Microsoft Word? Yes, Microsoft Word for the web is free for anyone to use online. Sign up or sign in using any email address.
Can I still use Office 365 without a subscription? You can use several Microsoft Office apps, including Word, without a paid subscription. However, you'll be limited to online-only versions of these apps instead of having the ability to work offline as well.
Office is not part of win, it has never been supplied free by MS. A seller may include a "free" office license with thire device. A new device usually has a pre-installed O365 Family trial, which if activated you will be billed for.
Office 365 includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, SharePoint, and Microsoft Teams, which can facilitate live online training. Microsoft 365 Personal is available for $6.99 monthly or $69.99 a year. Microsoft 365 Family costs $9.99 a month or $99.99 a year.
Another Microsoft Word alternative, Google Docs, is another option for creating and sharing documents online. It's completely free and lets you collaborate with others via real-time chat and instant messaging. Google Docs is a web-based office suite that allows you to collaborate with others while sharing documents.
This message is often triggered by a problem with your Microsoft 365 subscription payment. For example, if your payment was declined due to an expired or cancelled credit card, your subscription may become expired or suspended.
You can create a Word document in Word Online for free, but Microsoft 365 requires a subscription, and Office 2021 requires a one-time payment. There is no way to have a desktop version of Word without paying. Was this reply helpful?
Here are the most likely causes for an unrecognized charge: A Microsoft subscription has recurring billing enabled. Someone you know, such as a family member, bought something with your card. You can now investigate this on the Manage your payments page.
This is a source of confusion for those who buy a new computer that comes with a Microsoft 365 trial. Most Windows installations have Word and other Microsoft apps installed by default. You can launch the desktop version of Word to view documents for free, but editing is locked until you pay.
Can I edit Word documents online for free? You can edit your Word documents for free using platforms like Xodo, Microsoft Office Online or Google Docs.
Does Office 365 expire? Yes, Office 365 does expire if you don't renew your subscription. If you don't renew your subscription, you will lose access to all the Office apps and services that are included in your subscription. This includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and more.
After signing in, follow the steps that match the type of account you signed in with. From the Microsoft 365 home page select Install apps. Select Install (or depending on your version, Install apps>).
You activate Microsoft 365 by signing in with a Microsoft account. If we detect your Microsoft account, we'll show it on this screen. After you sign in, your product is added to your Microsoft account, so that you can reinstall it later, or manage your new subscription, without a product key.
Introduction: My name is Trent Wehner, I am a talented, brainy, zealous, light, funny, gleaming, attractive person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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