A staggering online offer for Microsoft Office software is causing a stir among UK shoppers. Retail platform Wowcher is currently advertising a lifetime licence for Microsoft Office 2021 Professional Plus for a one-off payment of just £21.60 for its VIP members, or £25.99 for non-VIPs.
What Does the Wowcher Microsoft Office Deal Include?
This promotion, highlighted by Head of Affiliates Marc Reeves on 7th January 2026, provides the full desktop suite for Windows 10 and 11. Unlike the subscription-based Microsoft 365, this is a one-device, one-time purchase with no recurring fees.
The package includes the core applications that many users rely on daily: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher, Access, and OneNote. The software is installed locally on a PC, offering full offline functionality, and it even integrates with Microsoft Teams. Upon purchase, buyers receive a digital activation key and download link, typically within 24 hours.
Why Is the Price So Low and Is It Legitimate?
The price point is the most eye-catching element, representing a massive reduction from Microsoft's direct price of around £399 for a similar one-off licence. This dramatic discount naturally raises questions about the deal's authenticity.
The short answer is that such deals are usually legitimate but come with important caveats. These heavily discounted licences are sold by authorised third-party resellers, not directly by Microsoft. They function as advertised but do not carry the same long-term assurances.
Pros and Cons of the Office 2021 Lifetime Licence
Before purchasing, it's crucial to weigh the benefits against the limitations.
Pros:
- A single, one-off payment for a permanent licence.
- Access to the full, classic Office desktop apps.
- Complete offline use with no subscription required.
Cons:
- This is Office 2021, meaning it will not receive future feature updates or new versions.
- The licence is tied to one device only and may not be transferable to a new PC.
- Customer support is more limited compared to Microsoft's own subscription services.
Office 2021 vs Microsoft 365: Which is Right For You?
This deal highlights the key choice facing Office users. Microsoft 365 is designed for those who want continuous updates, cloud storage, and access across multiple devices. The Office 2021 lifetime licence is aimed at users who prefer stable, familiar desktop apps, want to avoid ongoing costs, and do not need the latest cloud-connected features.
For individuals, students, or small businesses needing core Office functionality on a single Windows machine without a monthly bill, this Wowcher offer presents a compelling, budget-friendly alternative. The trade-off is accepting a static version of the software in exchange for a dramatically lower upfront cost.
