Compare software

LibreOffice WriterMicrosoft Word
Free

Free and open source, developed by The Document Foundation and community contributors.

 Freemium

Free online editing, with full features through a paid Microsoft 365 plan.

Windows, macOS, Linux Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Web
  • Free with no account or subscription
  • Suited to long documents and books as well as short notes
  • Standard format for documents at many workplaces and schools
  • Real-time sharing and collaboration
  • Installed with the whole LibreOffice suite rather than on its own
  • No built-in real-time co-editing like online word processors
  • Copilot and many features require a paid Microsoft 365 plan
  • Closed source and tied to the Microsoft ecosystem
Downloadable app Downloadable app, Web application
Open source Closed source
License: MPL-2.0 License not stated
No account needed Not stated if an account is needed
Works offline Not stated if it works offline

Checked October 1, 2026

Checked October 1, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.