DropBox Paper

DropBox is famous for it’s ability to store and share documents online.

Recently, the company has come out with an office platform: Paper.  What it lacks in document options (PowerPoint and Spreadsheet) it makes up for in it’s ease of use.  The simple, clean design is easy to share with coworkers using Paper’s team communication tools.

This is an internet-based program which works on all operating systems as long as internet access is available.

WPS Office

Of all the options on this list, WPS Office is the most similar to Microsoft 365 in its design and functionality.

If you want to replace Microsoft but are concerned about the learning curve which comes with a new platform coming, WPS Office is probably your best bet.  WPS comes with spreadsheet and power point tools in addition to the word processor.

WPS Office is slightly hampered because the free version limits the number of PDF files you can save.  Additionally, the free version comes with ads.  They do not get in your way, but they are present on screen.  But hey, that’s how they can keep it free.

If you do not want advertising but do want unlimited files, you can upgrade to a premium subscription.  While the premium option isn’t free, it is still certainly cheaper than Microsoft Office with most of the same functionality.

LibreOffice

LibreOffice is a downloadable platform which gives you everything you desire in Microsoft.

The major difference is that LibreOffice just has the basics.  If you like all the fancy extras that come with Microsoft Office, perhaps LibreOffice will not be for you.  However, if you just need the necessities, I highly recommend giving Libre a shot.

It is open source software, which means instead of being created by one company, it was built by a large group of independent computer software enthusiasts in their free time.  Because of this, it regularly receives improvements and updates by its creators.

Although LibreOffice has a bit of setting up that needs to get done to make your files interchangeable with other programs (AKA .docx), once it is up and running it becomes one of the most reliable office suites available.

Google

Google is probably the best replacement for Microsoft office.

All you need is a Gmail account and you have access to Google Docs, Sheets and Slides which correspond to Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.  These programs are free to use with an easy to understand layout.

Although Google does not offer all the customization you get with Microsoft Office, it’s clean, basic design makes it simple to use.

While the primary products are free, you may want to sign up for G Suite which is Google’s paid business platform.  For as little as $5 per person per month you can have expanded support for your company.  Google’s cheapest plan gives you shared calendars, security controls and secure team messaging plus additional storage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, although Microsoft Office is currently viewed as the ‘standard’ platform for businesses to work with, there are many options.  Most Office alternatives are free to use with upgrades available if needed.  I recommend you try these out for a few days to see if any of them feel comfortable.