When it comes to running a successful business in 2022, Microsoft 365 is an indispensable tool. As a comprehensive productivity platform, 365 boasts more than just Microsoft Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
In addition to these powerful apps, Microsoft 365 unites cloud-based services, automatic updates, cutting-edge security, and device management to deliver a seamless experience that keeps your business running smoothly.
However, as a subscription-based service, navigating the many plans can be challenging. In this article, we demystify Microsoft 365 Business pricing to help you get the right tools for your needs and budget.
To begin our exploration of Microsoft 365 Business pricing, it’s worth noting that this is one of three major categories, the other two being Microsoft 365 Home and Microsoft 365 Enterprise.
What distinguishes Home from Business from Enterprise is the maximum number of users permitted to use the software.
Home plans are the least expensive and allow between 1-6 users. Meanwhile, Enterprise plans are designed for unlimited users and are the most expensive. Business plans land in the middle, allowing up to 300 users.
Within the Microsoft 365 Business category, there are four plans to choose from. Below, we discuss each of them in detail so you can understand their features, benefits, pricing, and optimal use cases.
For a more detailed look at these plans, be sure to check out the designated Microsoft 365 pricing business page.
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As the name implies, this package represents the most basic of all the Office 365 Business plans.
Despite being the least expensive option, this package delivers a diverse range of productivity applications in both its web and mobile versions. The latter even allows you to work offline.
That said, the disadvantage is that Basic does not include desktop versions of those same apps. This can be particularly challenging for businesses looking to leverage the full power of Microsoft 365, as you’ll be limited to a less robust feature set.
This plan is best suited for organizations…
Applications include:
While this list includes various Microsoft Office applications, it’s important to note that these are the web-based versions rather than the traditional desktop equivalents.
Features include:
Price
$6.00/user/month
Marginally more expensive than the Basic plan, the Apps for Business option differs slightly. The most notable distinction is that, in addition to web and mobile Office apps, this plan includes locally installed desktop versions.
This means complete access to all app features. You also get additional tools like Access and Publisher.
That said, Apps for Business does not offer any of the teamwork or communication tools you’ll find in the Basic plan. Apps like Teams, SharePoint, and Exchange are all absent from this package.
This plan is best suited for organizations…
Applications include:
Features include:
Price:
$8.25/user/month
If you’re looking to invest in your organization’s collaborative capabilities, Microsoft 365 Business Standard has the tools you need.
Formerly known as Office 365 Business Essentials, this robust package is designed to boost productivity, streamline business processes, and improve communication and collaboration. This is accomplished with the help of cloud services and a variety of teamwork tools.
In contrast to the Basic plan, Standard also includes desktop versions of all the same web and mobile Office apps. Though this plan costs roughly twice as much as Basic, it offers a great middle-of-the-road option for companies that don’t require all the functionality of the Premium package but still want access to teamwork and communication features.
This plan is best suited for organizations…
Applications include:
Features include:
Price:
$12.50/user/month
The pinnacle of the packages, Microsoft 365 Business Premium offers everything the previous plans do and more. This includes all Office apps in web, mobile, and desktop versions.
You also get complete access to teamwork and communication features in addition to email and calendaring.
The big difference between the Standard and the Premium plan is that the latter also includes advanced threat protection, as well as PC and mobile device management.
Advanced protection is essential for companies adhering to strict compliance regulations or handling sensitive data. This is especially true of healthcare and government organizations.
If you’re looking for the most comprehensive Microsoft plan for your business, then Office 365 Business Premium is the clear choice.
This plan is best suited for organizations…
Depending on the industry your business operates within, you may have to deal with specific requirements in order to meet data protection requirements, such as HIPAA or PCI. As a result, you may require a more robust license for Microsoft 365 Business Premium.
Applications include:
Features include:
Price:
$22.00/user/month
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For over 25 years, we’ve assisted countless businesses across New York and New Jersey to streamline their operations, boost productivity, and gain a competitive advantage.
Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive digital transformation or you just need help navigating the best Microsoft Office 365 small business plans, our experts can help.
Contact us today to learn more about our Microsoft 365 migration and consulting services, because there’s no shortcut to true excellence.
Daniel Haurey Jr. is the president and founder of managed IT services provider Exigent Technologies, which he founded in 1997. Under his leadership, the MSP has earned accolades ranging from Channel Futures MSP 501 to being named SonicWall’s 2024 MSP Growth Partner of the Year. Dan is a true entrepreneur, dedicated to growing, investing in, and mentoring small businesses. You can find him on LinkedIn, where he regularly posts about technology, business, leadership, and community.