Microsoft Publisher is a popular desktop publishing application that allows users to create professional-looking documents, such as brochures, flyers, and newsletters. It is part of the Microsoft Office suite and is often used as an alternative to more expensive design software like Adobe InDesign.
But how much does Microsoft Publisher actually cost? In this article, we’ll explore the different pricing options for Microsoft Publisher and compare it to other digital publishing tools.
Is Microsoft Publisher Free?
The short answer is no, Microsoft Publisher is not free. It is a paid software that is included in the Microsoft Office suite. However, there are a few ways to access Microsoft Publisher without paying the full price.
Microsoft Office 365 Subscription
The most common way to access Microsoft Publisher is through a Microsoft Office 365 subscription. This subscription-based service offers access to all Microsoft Office applications, including Publisher, for a monthly or yearly fee.
There are several different subscription plans available, with prices ranging from $69.99 to $149.99 per year. The more expensive plans include additional features and applications, such as Microsoft Access and Microsoft Project.
One-Time Purchase
If you don’t want to commit to a subscription, you can also purchase a one-time license for Microsoft Publisher. This option is more expensive upfront, but you won’t have to pay a recurring fee.
The current price for a one-time purchase of Microsoft Publisher is $139.99. This also includes access to other Microsoft Office applications, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Free Trial
Microsoft also offers a free trial of Microsoft Publisher for those who want to test out the software before committing to a purchase. The trial lasts for 30 days and includes all the features of the full version.
How Does Microsoft Publisher Compare to Other Digital Publishing Tools?
While Microsoft Publisher is a popular choice for desktop publishing, there are other options available that may better suit your needs and budget. Let’s take a look at some alternatives to Microsoft Publisher.
Adobe InDesign
Adobe InDesign is considered the industry standard for desktop publishing and is often used by professional designers. It offers a wide range of advanced features and is known for its high-quality output.
However, with a price tag of $20.99 per month for a single app subscription or $52.99 per month for the full Adobe Creative Cloud suite, it may not be the most budget-friendly option for individuals or small businesses.
Canva
Canva is a popular online design tool that offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of templates and design elements. It is often used for creating social media graphics, presentations, and other digital designs.
Canva offers a free version with limited features, as well as a paid subscription for $12.99 per month. While it may not have all the advanced features of Microsoft Publisher, it is a more affordable option for those looking to create simple designs.
Lucidpress
Lucidpress is a cloud-based design tool that offers a range of templates and design elements for creating professional-looking documents. It also has collaboration features, making it a great option for teams working on projects together.
Pricing for Lucidpress starts at $10 per month for individuals and $20 per month for teams. While it may not have the name recognition of Microsoft Publisher, it offers a more affordable option for those looking for a desktop publishing tool.
Is Microsoft Publisher Worth the Cost?
The answer to this question depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are a small business or individual looking to create professional-looking documents, Microsoft Publisher may be a good option for you.
However, if you are a professional designer or need more advanced features, you may want to consider other options like Adobe InDesign. It’s important to weigh the cost against the features and capabilities of each tool to determine which one is the best fit for you.
Are There Any Free Alternatives to Microsoft Publisher?
While there are no free alternatives that offer the same features and capabilities as Microsoft Publisher, there are some free options that may work for basic desktop publishing needs.
LibreOffice Draw
LibreOffice Draw is a free and open-source desktop publishing tool that is part of the LibreOffice suite. It offers basic design features and is a good option for those on a tight budget.
Scribus
Scribus is another free and open-source desktop publishing tool that offers more advanced features than LibreOffice Draw. It is often used for creating professional-looking documents and is a good alternative to Microsoft Publisher for those who don’t want to pay for a subscription.
In Conclusion
While Microsoft Publisher is not free, it offers a range of features and capabilities that make it a popular choice for desktop publishing. However, there are other options available that may better suit your needs and budget.
When considering the cost of Microsoft Publisher, it’s important to also consider the features and capabilities of other digital publishing tools to determine which one is the best fit for you. Whether you choose Microsoft Publisher or another tool, having access to a desktop publishing application can greatly improve the quality of your documents and designs.
