The most popular way to access these apps is by buying a Microsoft 365 membership, but those fees mount over time and can discourage you from using Word, Excel, ...
You can also take a look at CNET's list of [the best Windows laptops](/tech/computing/best-windows-laptop/). [one-month free trial](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=0JlRymcP1YU&mid=46107&u1=cn-___COM_CLICK_ID___-dtp___OPTOUT___&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fmicrosoft-365%2Ftry) of Microsoft 365. Well, the functionality of the free apps is limited: They only run in your web browser and you can only use them while you're actively connected to the internet. There are still a number of benefits, however, including the ability to share links to your work and collaborate in real time, similar to what G Suite tools allow. If you already have a Windows, Skype or Xbox Live login, you have an active Microsoft account. Fortunately, you can snag [Microsoft 365](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=0JlRymcP1YU&mid=46107&u1=cn-___COM_CLICK_ID___-dtp___OPTOUT___&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fmicrosoft-365%2Fbuy%2Fcompare-all-microsoft-365-products) at no cost. [Microsoft 365](https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=0JlRymcP1YU&mid=46107&u1=cn-___COM_CLICK_ID___-dtp___OPTOUT___&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fmicrosoft-365%2Fbuy%2Fcompare-all-microsoft-365-products) collection typically costs between $70 and $100 every year for subscription access across devices and family members. If you attend an institution that needs to be verified, it might take up to a month to confirm your eligibility. Log in to your Microsoft account or create one for free. [all of the best features in Windows 11](/tech/computing/the-best-windows-11-features-android-apps-widgets-and-more/), [how to take screenshots in Windows 10 or 11](/tech/services-and-software/taking-screenshots-is-easy-on-windows-10-and-11-heres-how/) and [the best resume-building apps](/tech/services-and-software/best-resume-writing-services-2022/). [Microsoft 365](/culture/microsofts-office-365-is-now-microsoft-365-a-subscription-for-your-life/), includes tools that you probably use at home, school or on the job. In many cases, you'll be instantly granted access thanks to an automated verification process.
For close to three decades, Microsoft's Office suite has been the go-to productivity tool for professionals, students, and even amateurs at home.
Follow the prompts and choose the app you want to use at the bottom of the Services & subscriptions tab. On the other hand, if you do not need the entire office suite, you can use a few of the apps online for free. This will give you free access to Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Teams, and other classroom tools. The catch here is that the free access to Microsoft Word, Excel, and the rest comes with some caveats. The good part about paying for the subscription is that it can be shared across family members and devices. Paying for a Microsoft 365 subscription is the most popular and convenient means to access the office suite.