Are you unsure about which Microsoft 365 product is right for your business? In this guide, we’ll explore the three main options available and help you make an informed decision.

Microsoft 365 Business Basic: Entry-Level Productivity Suite

Microsoft 365 Business Basic serves as the entry-level option, offering essential productivity tools at an affordable price point. Priced at just $6 per user per month and this package includes web, Android, and iOS versions of popular apps such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook. Additionally, users gain access to Exchange for domain-based email services.

Collaborative working is facilitated through document and spreadsheet sharing, with files seamlessly saved and synced across devices via OneDrive and SharePoint. The package also includes 1TB of cloud storage per user, 50GB of mailbox space, custom domain names, and full calendar capabilities. Security features include Exchange Online Protection and adherence to international security standards. With support for 300 users, this option suits many small and medium-sized businesses, albeit with fewer advanced features.

Microsoft 365 Business Standard: Enhanced Versatility

For greater versatility, consider upgrading to Microsoft 365 Business Standard. Priced at $12.50 per user per month in the US and this package builds upon the features of the Basic tier. Users still enjoy web apps, support for 300 users, and 1TB of cloud storage per user, but with notable enhancements.

The key addition is the availability of desktop versions of Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and OneNote, which can be installed on PCs or Macs. PC users also gain Access and Publisher, with each user allowed installations on up to five devices. Moreover, Microsoft 365 Business Standard enables users to host webinars, offering expanded functionality compared to the Basic tier.

Additionally, businesses can opt for more control over their data, particularly beneficial for those with existing domains. However, this option may require more technical expertise to implement effectively.

Microsoft 365 Business Premium: Maximum Security and Management

At the top tier, Microsoft 365 Business Premium offers comprehensive security and management tools alongside the full suite of productivity apps. This package includes everything from the Standard tier, plus additional security features from Azure and Intune.

Business Premium users benefit from enterprise-grade security measures, including protection against malware and ransomware. Advanced email protection tools help safeguard against phishing attacks, while data sharing can be restricted, and unauthorized access prevented. Administrators gain access to wizards for applying security and access changes across devices, with apps deployable automatically and updates applied seamlessly.

However, it’s important to note that Microsoft 365 Business Premium supports a maximum of 300 users and comes at a higher cost of $22 per user per month.

Choosing the Right Microsoft 365 Business Package

In summary, the choice between Microsoft 365 Business Basic, Standard, and Premium depends on your organization’s specific needs and priorities. Here’s a brief overview:

• Business Basic: Ideal for smaller companies needing reliable web-based productivity tools and corporate email.
• Business Standard: Suitable for businesses preferring downloadable software and desiring more control over data and domains.
• Business Premium: Recommended for organizations requiring granular device control, advanced security features, and robust management tools.