Office 2021: Retail vs Volume License - Complete Guide
Choosing between Office 2021 Retail and Volume licenses can significantly impact your budget and flexibility. This comprehensive guide breaks down the differences to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Retail License?
A Retail license (also called FPP - Full Packaged Product) is designed for individual consumers and small businesses. It's the type of license you typically purchase from retail stores or directly from Microsoft.
What is a Volume License?
Volume licenses are designed for organizations that need to deploy Office on multiple computers. These licenses are sold through Microsoft's Volume Licensing programs and offer simplified deployment and management.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Retail License | Volume License |
|---|---|---|
| Transferable to new PC | Yes | No |
| Activation Method | Online/Phone | KMS/MAK Server |
| Microsoft Support | Included | Limited |
| Price per unit | Higher | Lower |
| Minimum purchase | 1 license | 5+ licenses |
Which License Type is Best for You?
Choose Retail License if:
- You're an individual user or small business with 1-4 computers
- You want to transfer the license to a new computer in the future
- You prefer direct Microsoft support
- You want a one-time purchase with no ongoing management
Choose Volume License if:
- Your organization has 5 or more computers
- You need centralized license management
- You want lower per-unit costs
- You have IT infrastructure for KMS activation
Legal Considerations
Both license types are genuine Microsoft products when purchased from authorized resellers. Volume licenses sold individually (not as part of a volume agreement) may have restrictions. Always verify the seller's authorization and ensure compliance with Microsoft's licensing terms.
Cost Comparison
While Volume licenses offer lower per-unit costs, the total cost depends on your specific needs:
- •Retail: Higher upfront cost but includes transferability and full support
- •Volume: Lower per-unit cost but requires minimum purchase and may need infrastructure
Conclusion
For most individual users and small businesses, Retail licenses offer the best combination of flexibility and support. Organizations with 5+ computers benefit from Volume licensing's cost savings and management features. Consider your current needs, growth plans, and technical capabilities when making your decision.