You can replace Microsoft 365’s desktop Word, Excel, and PowerPoint work with LibreOffice Writer, Calc, and Impress. For cloud storage and browser-based shared editing, pair a Nextcloud deployment with an office integration such as Collabora Online or ONLYOFFICE. These options cover different parts of Microsoft 365; moving office files does not, by itself, migrate Outlook, Teams, OneDrive permissions, or the rest of an organization’s Microsoft setup.
Choose an alternative for each Microsoft 365 task
Microsoft 365 combines desktop apps, cloud services, and collaboration tools. There is no single open-source app in this set that automatically replaces all of them. Start by identifying which jobs you need to move.
| Microsoft 365 task | Open-source option | What it does | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Word documents | LibreOffice Writer | Opens and saves DOC and DOCX files; ODT is its OpenDocument counterpart. | Review complex layouts, embedded objects, forms, and tracked changes or other revision features. |
| Excel spreadsheets | LibreOffice Calc | Opens and saves XLS and XLSX files; ODS is its OpenDocument counterpart. | Test formulas, charts, pivot tables, conditional formatting, controls, and any VBA-dependent workflows. |
| PowerPoint presentations | LibreOffice Impress | Opens and saves PPT and PPTX files; ODP is its OpenDocument counterpart. | Check slide masters, grouped objects, multimedia effects, and spacing. |
| Cloud files and shared office editing | Nextcloud with Collabora Online or ONLYOFFICE | Nextcloud provides a cloud collaboration platform; an integrated online editor enables browser-based office work. | Choose and configure an editor integration, and decide who hosts and administers the service. |
| Calendar, contacts, and communication | Nextcloud Groupware and Talk components | Nextcloud’s supported-app list includes calendar, email, Talk, Collabora Online, and ONLYOFFICE. | These are separate workloads to configure; the available evidence does not establish a complete Outlook or Teams migration. |
LibreOffice is the clearest starting point for replacing desktop document, spreadsheet, and presentation editing. The Document Foundation describes it as free and open-source software, with Writer, Calc, and Impress among its components. Its regular releases and security updates are also described by the Foundation, rather than established here through independent product testing.
Replace Word, Excel, and PowerPoint with LibreOffice
Install LibreOffice for desktop work and use Writer for documents, Calc for spreadsheets, and Impress for presentations. These apps can open and save Microsoft Office formats, so you can try them on existing files without first converting your entire library.
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#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
File-format support is not a promise of identical appearance or behavior. LibreOffice Help says the amount of reformatting depends on the complexity of a document’s structure and formatting. Its compatibility guidance also calls out feature areas that may behave differently. A simple document may transfer cleanly; a heavily formatted template, complex workbook, or presentation with elaborate effects deserves a closer check.
Keep Microsoft formats when exchanging files
If colleagues or clients expect DOCX, XLSX, or PPTX, continue saving in those formats for shared work. LibreOffice supports them, and Microsoft recommends Office Open XML as the default for Office files unless there is a reason to use another format. Check the file after saving and, for important shared documents, ask a recipient using Microsoft Office to verify it too.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Use OpenDocument for a LibreOffice-centered workflow
For new work that will stay primarily in LibreOffice, consider ODT for text documents, ODS for spreadsheets, and ODP for presentations. These are the corresponding OpenDocument formats. LibreOffice also includes a Document Converter Wizard that can convert Office files in a folder to OpenDocument formats. Keep the original files and inspect converted documents before treating them as final.
Treat macros and complex features as migration risks
LibreOffice Help warns that, with few exceptions, Microsoft Office and LibreOffice cannot run the same macro code. Some Excel VBA scripts may run when a feature is enabled, but that is not a guarantee of parity. If a workbook or document depends on macros, forms, controls, pivot tables, charts, revision marks, or embedded objects, test those specific functions—not just whether the file opens.
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- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Add cloud storage and online editing with Nextcloud
LibreOffice is a desktop suite; installing it does not create a Microsoft 365-style cloud service. For files stored centrally and edited in a browser, Nextcloud can provide the broader collaboration layer, with an office integration such as Collabora Online or ONLYOFFICE. Collabora describes its office applications as browser-based, and ONLYOFFICE documents an integration for Nextcloud.
This is a set of components to deploy or obtain as a hosted service, not a one-click substitute. The experience depends on the chosen editor, its configuration, and the way the Nextcloud service is run. Nextcloud’s documentation lists office integrations alongside Files, Groupware, and Talk; availability of a component does not mean it is already configured or equivalent to a Microsoft service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
With a self-hosted deployment, account for hosting, administration, updates, backups, and security operations. If you do not want to run that infrastructure, investigate a hosted or supported deployment and confirm what it includes. The cost and support terms depend on the provider and service; do not assume that open-source software makes operating a cloud service cost-free.
Move files in a controlled sequence
- Inventory what people actually use. List active DOCX, XLSX, and PPTX files, shared libraries, templates, macros, and workflows that depend on online collaboration. Note which documents are business-critical and who needs to edit them.
- Keep an untouched backup. Preserve the originals before opening, converting, or resaving files in another application.
- Trial representative files. Open a sample of ordinary and complicated documents in LibreOffice. Check key files in the online editor you plan to use, and involve collaborators who normally work with Microsoft Office.
- Choose a format policy by workflow. Retain Microsoft formats where exchange with Office users matters; consider OpenDocument for new work that will stay in a LibreOffice-centered workflow. Convert folders only after reviewing the results of a trial.
- Validate behavior, not just file opening. Inspect page layout, formulas, charts, pivots, macros, revision marks, forms, and multimedia where relevant. Confirm that shared editing works for the people and files involved.
- Plan other services separately. Treat email, calendars, cloud permissions, identity, chat and video, and organizational controls as distinct migration tracks. Office-file conversion does not move those systems or their data.
Decide whether a full switch is suitable
A desktop-only move is a simpler scope than replacing Microsoft 365 across a team. Before committing, compare the option against the work it must support.
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Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
- File compatibility: Can people exchange the required DOCX, XLSX, and PPTX files without unacceptable changes?
- Complexity and automation: Do important files rely on VBA, elaborate formatting, specialist spreadsheet features, or presentation effects?
- Offline work: Do users need desktop editing when they do not have a network connection?
- Cloud operations: Who will host, configure, update, back up, and secure a Nextcloud service and its office integration?
- Collaboration and support: Does the chosen setup cover the required editing, mobile access, access controls, and support model?
LibreOffice’s comparison with Apache OpenOffice describes LibreOffice as actively maintained with regular releases and security updates, while stating Apache OpenOffice’s last major release was in 2014. Release details can change, so check current project information when comparing desktop suites.
What this replacement does not establish
The tools above can cover office documents and, with additional components, cloud files and browser-based editing. They do not establish a complete migration route for Exchange or Outlook mail and calendars, Microsoft identities, Teams messages and meetings, SharePoint or OneDrive permissions and metadata, retention or legal holds, or endpoint and security management. Organizations relying on those services need a separately scoped migration plan rather than assuming that replacing document editors will move them.
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