In cases where companies need trusted productivity tools, Microsoft 365 would almost always be the ideal choice. However, the dilemma of the correct plan can be a little confusing at times when you are not fully aware of different features of these subscriptions and have to decide on which one to use, in particular, between Microsoft 365 Business Basic and Microsoft 365 Business Standard.
When you are going to purchase either the Microsoft 365 Business Basic plan, with basic cloud tools, or the Microsoft 365 Business Standard plan, with full desktop applications, you would like to be aware of the differences between the two to make the most appropriate decision for your business.
- Microsoft 365 Business Basic vs Standard : What Is It?
Microsoft 365 Business Basic license designed for the teams that needs to use cloud-based productivity tools. Their web and mobile versions are available in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, and some essential collaboration standards, such as Teams and OneDrive, are present.
One of the most common plans that most companies choose to acquire with the help of a reputable reseller, especially when they need to communicate easily and keep the data files in convenient places without desktop applications, is Microsoft 365 Business Basic.
The price of the Microsoft 365 Business basic plan is also fairly affordable and can be recommended as one of the best entry-level subscriptions to the Microsoft ecosystem.
- Overview of Microsoft 365 vs Business Standard
Microsoft 365 Business Standard can be the perfect choice for those companies that need complete productivity tools, because the Microsoft 365 Business Standard license offers a full package, cloud apps, and full desktop applications.
Many businesses are choosing to buy the Microsoft 365 Business Standard Plan when their work is dependent on the advanced document editing, offline access, and business email.
If you purchase it through a certified reseller of the Microsoft 365, then you will get smooth onboarding, license management, and reliable support. Admittedly, the cost of the Microsoft 365 Business standard plan may be slightly more expensive, yet the additional features and functionality are well justified in the case of expanding teams.
- Comparison of Microsoft 365 Business Basic Vs Standard
| Feature / Category | Microsoft 365 Business Basic | Microsoft 365 Business Standard |
| Core Purpose | Cloud-based productivity & communication | Full productivity suite with desktop apps |
| Included Apps | Web & mobile Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook | Desktop, web & mobile Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook |
| Email Hosting | Yes, business-class email | Yes, with advanced mailbox tools |
| Collaboration Tools | Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive | Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, plus advanced teamwork features |
| Storage | 1 TB OneDrive per user | 1 TB OneDrive per user |
| Desktop Applications | Not included | Fully included (install on PC/Mac) |
| Best For | Startups, remote teams, cloud-only workflows | Businesses needing full app capabilities |
| Typical Users | Basic usage, document viewing/editing online | Power users, editors, designers, managers |
| Subscription Type | Monthly/annual subscription | Monthly/annual subscription |
| Integration with Online Software | Excellent for cloud-first environments | Excellent for hybrid offline + online workflows |
| Cost Efficiency | More affordable; lower price of Microsoft 365 business basic plan | Higher value; premium features justify price of Microsoft 365 Business standard plan |
| Recommended Purchase Method | Through trusted reseller of Microsoft 365 | Through certified reseller of Microsoft 365 |
- Which One Should You Buy? Microsoft 365 vs Business Standard
You should consider buying the Microsoft 365 Business Basic plan when your organization:
- Works mostly online
- Needs email, cloud storage, and collaboration tools
- Prefers a lower subscription cost
- Doesn’t depend on advanced editing features
This plan can be perfect if you are purchasing it through a trusted reseller of Microsoft 365, and who need minimal setup along with essential tools.
- Advised to purchase the Microsoft 365 vs Business Standard, in case your company:
- Requires desktop applications for heavy workloads
- Needs offline functionality
- Handles complex documents, presentations, or spreadsheets
- Wants a stronger collaboration ecosystem
If you purchase through a reseller of Microsoft 365, then you will get proper installation support, license management, and long-term assistance.
Final Thoughts
Both Microsoft 365 Business Basic and Business Standard follow a flexible subscription model, which is why it is easily scalable with each team. Your choice mainly depends on your business needs, whether they need desktop applications or cloud-based tools.
Both plans offer excellent value in their own category, but choosing the right plan will ensure productivity, security, and smooth collaboration. And when you purchase it through a trusted partners like wroffy, then deployment and onboarding become easy.
