Differences Between Microsoft Office 2016 and 2019

Microsoft Office 2016 and Office 2019 are both productivity suites, but Office 2019 introduces several updates and new features over its predecessor. Below are the key differences:

1. General Updates

• Release Date:
  • Office 2016: Released in September 2015.
  • Office 2019: Released in September 2018.
• Support:
  • Office 2016 mainstream support ended in October 2020 (extended support continues until October 2025).
  • Office 2019 mainstream support lasts until October 2023, with extended support until October 2025.

2. Feature Improvements

• Excel:
  • Office 2016: Includes essential functions and features like basic PivotTables and Power Query.
  • Office 2019: Adds new functions like TEXTJOIN, CONCAT, IFS, and SWITCH. Features like new charts (Map and Funnel) and Power BI integrations are also included.
• Word:
  • Office 2016: Standard writing and editing tools.
  • Office 2019: Adds features like a focus mode, improved inking capabilities, translation tools, and learning tools like Read Aloud and Text Spacing.
• PowerPoint:
  • Office 2016: Basic presentation features with transitions and animations.
  • Office 2019: Introduces new features such as Morph and Zoom for advanced transitions, 3D model handling, and enhanced inking capabilities.
• Outlook:
  • Office 2016: Email and calendar functionalities.
  • Office 2019: Adds features like focused inbox, updated contact cards, and support for Office 365 Groups.

3. Performance and Usability

• Improved Performance: Office 2019 provides better performance and stability compared to Office 2016.
• Inking Support: Office 2019 improves inking across apps with features like pressure sensitivity and tilt effects.

4. Cloud and Collaboration

• Both versions support OneDrive integration for cloud storage, but Office 2019 enhances real-time collaboration features when connected to Office 365.

5. System Requirements

• Office 2016 is compatible with older Windows versions, such as Windows 7 and 8.1.
• Office 2019 requires Windows 10 or macOS Sierra (or later).

6. Licensing Model

• Both versions are perpetual licenses (one-time purchase). However, Office 2019 includes newer features that were initially available only to Office 365 subscribers.

Summary Table:

If you’re deciding between the two, Office 2019 is the better choice for updated features and enhanced performance. However, for the most up-to-date capabilities, consider Microsoft 365, which provides ongoing updates.