Introduction:
Microsoft has long been a leading name in the world of technology, with its software and products used by millions of people worldwide. However, with rising living costs and the increasing demand for high-quality tech products, it can be not easy to find affordable options that don’t compromise on quality.
As such, Microsoft has put together a range of budget-friendly tips and tricks for those looking to save money, without sacrificing their tech needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at Microsoft’s answer to ChatGTP on a budget, providing our readers with the best money-saving tips.
Use Microsoft Office for Free
Microsoft Office is a popular software suite used by millions of people around the world. It includes essential tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, which are essential for productivity and organization. While many people purchase the full suite, there is a way to use it for free. Microsoft offers a web-based version of Office that includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. All you need to do is sign up for a free Microsoft account and use the web-based versions for your needs.
Use OneDrive to Save Money on Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is essential for many people, providing a convenient way to store files and access them from any device. However, cloud storage can be expensive, with many providers charging high fees for their services. OneDrive is Microsoft’s cloud storage service and is included with Microsoft Office subscriptions. For those who don’t want to purchase a subscription, Microsoft also offers a free version of OneDrive with 5GB of storage. This may not be enough for everyone’s needs, but it can be a great way to save money for those who only need to store a few important files.
Buy a Refurbished Computer
Buying a new computer can be a significant expense, with some high-end models costing thousands of dollars. However, there is a way to save money on a computer purchase without sacrificing quality. Many computer manufacturers offer refurbished models at a discounted price. Refurbished computers are devices that have been previously used, but have been restored to their original condition.
They are often as good as new but are significantly cheaper than buying a brand-new device. Microsoft’s online store offers a range of refurbished computers, including laptops and desktops, at a fraction of the cost of a new device.
Purchase a Microsoft Complete Warranty
Purchasing a warranty for a computer or other tech device can be a smart investment, providing peace of mind and protection against unexpected damage or issues. However, warranties can be expensive, with some providers charging high fees for their services.
Microsoft offers a more affordable option with their Microsoft Complete Warranty. This warranty covers accidental damage and technical support and is available for a range of Microsoft devices, including Surface tablets and laptops. The warranty is available for purchase when buying a new device or within 45 days of purchase.
Use Microsoft Edge Instead of Other Browsers
Internet browsers are essential for browsing the web, but they can also be a significant source of security vulnerabilities and performance issues. Many popular browsers are also resource-intensive, using up a significant amount of system resources and potentially slowing down your device.
Microsoft’s Edge browser offers a lightweight and secure alternative to other browsers, with features like built-in protection against phishing and other online threats. Edge is also designed to use fewer system resources than other browsers, meaning it can provide better performance and faster browsing speeds.
Take Advantage of Free Training Resources
Microsoft provides a range of training resources for its software and products, including free online courses, tutorials, and video guides. These resources can be a great way to learn new skills and get the most out of your Microsoft products, without the need to pay for expensive training or consulting services.
Microsoft offers a range of training resources through its Microsoft Learn platform, which provides free training courses for a wide range of Microsoft products and services. The courses cover everything from beginner-level introductions to advanced topics and include interactive labs and assessments to test your knowledge.
This is a great way to enhance your skills and get the most out of your Microsoft products, without having to spend money on expensive training courses.
Purchase Office 365 Home Instead of Individual Licenses
If you’re looking to purchase Microsoft Office for your household or small business, it can be more cost effective to purchase the Office 365 Home subscription instead of individual licenses for each user. The Office 365 Home subscription allows for up to six users, each with access to all of the Office applications and services, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote.
This subscription also includes 1TB of OneDrive cloud storage per user, which can be a significant cost-saving compared to purchasing individual licenses and cloud storage for each user.
Use Microsoft Teams for Remote Collaboration
Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years and even more important due to the pandemic. Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform that allows for remote work and collaboration, including video conferencing, chat, file sharing, and more.
Teams are available for free and can be a great way to save money on travel and in-person meetings. Teams also integrate with other Microsoft products, including Office, OneDrive, and SharePoint, making it a powerful tool for remote collaboration.
Purchase Microsoft 365 Personal for One User
If you only need Microsoft Office for one user, it can be more cost effective to purchase the Microsoft 365 Personal subscription instead of the Office 365 Home subscription. Microsoft 365 Personal includes access to all of the Office applications and services, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, as well as 1TB of OneDrive cloud storage.
This subscription is designed for individual users and can be a great way to save money if you don’t need access to the full suite of Office applications for multiple users.
Use Microsoft Authenticator for Added Security
Cybersecurity is more important than ever, and Microsoft offers a free tool to help protect your accounts and data. Microsoft Authenticator is a two-factor authentication app that provides an additional layer of security when signing into your Microsoft account and other online services.
The app is available for free on iOS and Android and provides a simple and secure way to protect your accounts from unauthorized access. By using Microsoft Authenticator, you can avoid costly data breaches and protect your sensitive information.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Microsoft offers a range of money-saving tips and tricks for those looking to save money on tech products and services. By using these tips, you can get the most out of your Microsoft products while keeping your expenses under control. From using free versions of Office and OneDrive to purchasing refurbished devices and taking advantage of free training resources, there are many ways to save money with Microsoft. By following these tips and using Microsoft products effectively, you can stay productive and secure while staying within your budget.
