OpenOffice vs. LibreOffice: What the programs offer

Desktop applications for handling texts, presentations and spreadsheets are hard to imagine without and are regularly needed in the office, at school, at university or even privately. While Microsoft Office can only be purchased for a fee, both OpenOffice and LibreOffice offer all tools for free.

Differences between OpenOffice and LibreOffice

Both OpenOffice and LibreOffice have a text program, spreadsheets and other software. Both programs are actually inferior to Microsoft Office only in one: There is no mail application like Outlook. However, thanks to many providers like Google, Yahoo, Thunderbird and Co. this should hardly be a relevant disadvantage. Only small differences separate the programs from each other.

• You can not only view files in X format such as .docx and .xls in LibreOffice, but also save them in it.
• LibreOffice receives more frequent updates. This closes security gaps faster and also with new features is to be expected with the program sooner than with OpenOffice.
• There is only the 32-bit version of OpenOffice, which also runs on 64-bit Windows. With LibreOffice, you can choose between 32-bit and 64-bit.
• You can save a file directly to a cloud service in LibreOffice, for example, to view it on the go on your cell phone.
• OpenOffice consumes slightly less RAM than LibreOffice and has better performance. This makes the software more suitable for older PCs.
• LibreOffice is also available for many operating systems and devices and is constantly being developed further, as it is an open source project. However, you will not find any support offerings here. In case of problems, the community must help.
• OpenOffice lacks some features that can already be used with LibreOffice.

Downloads, Apps & Tips on the subject

To download: OpenOffice | LibreOfficeOffice alternatives: free replacement for MicrosoftOffice office software: free programs you no longer want to do without printing