Office 365 web vs computer program

Hello,

Yes, that idea is generally reasonable, but only if your usage is light.

The web version is suitable for: routine viewing, simple editing of Word / Excel / PPT, cloud synchronization, and occasional use. Microsoft notes that the web version allows creating and editing files directly in the browser, but with fewer features than the desktop version.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/office/differences-between-using-a-document-in-the-browser-and-in-word-90fac46c-2b8e-4fa1-b997-4e55ce4ed754?utm_source

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/office365/servicedescriptions/office-online-service-description/office-online-service-description?utm_source

It is not very suitable if you uninstall the desktop version: for example, if you often need complex formatting, advanced Excel functions, richer PowerPoint design features, offline work, or encounter protected/special format files. Microsoft also explicitly states that many functions are more complete only in the desktop version.

Removing the desktop Office apps and using only Microsoft 365 for the web can be logical in some scenarios, but it depends on how the apps are used.

Key points from the available information:

1. Web apps are free and lightweight
   • Microsoft 365 for the web (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Outlook in a browser) is free to use with a Microsoft account and runs entirely in a web browser, so it does not consume local disk space for the desktop apps.
   • This can help save space on devices with small drives.
2. Feature limitations vs desktop apps
   • Microsoft 365 for the web provides basic editing and viewing features, but it does not have the full feature set of the desktop Office programs.
   • If advanced features are needed (complex formatting, large workbooks, advanced macros, add-ins, offline work, etc.), the desktop apps are still required.
3. Internet and SharePoint/OneDrive dependency
   • Web apps work best when documents are stored in OneDrive or SharePoint libraries.
   • Reliable internet access is needed; if working offline is important, removing the desktop apps would be a disadvantage.
4. Subscription vs web-only
   • A Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscription includes both web apps and full desktop apps for PC and Mac. Removing the desktop apps does not cancel the subscription; it only frees local disk space.
   • Free Microsoft 365 web apps remain available even without a paid subscription, but only as web versions.

So, it is a logical move if:

• Only basic editing and collaboration features are needed, and
• There is consistent internet access, and
• Saving local disk space is a priority.

It is not ideal if:

• Advanced Office features are used regularly, or
• Offline access to documents and apps is important.

References:

• What's the difference between a Microsoft 365 subscription and free web apps
• Using Office for the web in your organization's SharePoint site