Presentations are probably the best way to communicate information with others. If you’re in a job or university, chances are you’ve been asked to create one by now. And when people say “create a PowerPoint for this,” it’s because of how popular the software is. In fact, the terms “PowerPoint” and “presentation” have almost become interchangeable due to its widespread use. While PowerPoint is just one tool for making presentations, it has become the go-to software for the task.
However, downloading Microsoft PowerPoint can be a hassle — cracks, scams, activation keys, and a ton of questionable downloads are out there. If you’ve tried all of these and are probably tired by now, this guide will hopefully be your last stop in the journey to download PowerPoint. In this article, I’ll explain how to download Microsoft PowerPoint for free (any version) on Android, iPhone, MacBook, or PC. I'll cover everything you need to ensure PowerPoint is installed on your PC, ready for your next presentation.
Keep reading to learn how to download MS PowerPoint for free and access the full version today!
Microsoft PowerPoint App is Free to Use
Microsoft PowerPoint is an advanced presentation software, which is part of the Microsoft Office suite, and has been around for a while now. With PowerPoint, you can create presentations, add transitions, apply animations, and use other features to communicate information in the most effective ways. And since the world is moving so fast, and people are mostly working on-the-go, Microsoft Office offers a free Microsoft PowerPoint app for users on both Android and iOS to ensure that your work doesn’t stop!
How to Download Microsoft PowerPoint on Android for Free
You can install Microsoft PowerPoint on your Android device either by downloading the full Microsoft Office app or by simply downloading the Microsoft PowerPoint app separately. The choice depends on your workflow and how important other apps within the Office suite are to you. Here's how you can download Microsoft PowerPoint for free on your Android.
Step 1: Open the Google Play Store and search for "Microsoft PowerPoint" in the search bar.
Step 2: The Microsoft PowerPoint app will appear as the first result. Select it and tap the "Install" button to start downloading and installing the app on your device.
Step 3: After installation is complete, you can open Microsoft PowerPoint from your app drawer or home screen.
Step 4: Upon opening the app for the first time, you may be prompted to sign in with your Microsoft account.
Step 5: If you already have a Microsoft account, simply enter your email and password to sign in. If not, you can create a new account for free.
How to Download Microsoft PowerPoint on iPhone/iPad
Microsoft PowerPoint is also available for iOS devices, meaning you can download it on both your iPhone and iPad. Here's how to download Microsoft PowerPoint for free on your iOS device:
Step 1: Open the App Store and search for "MS PowerPoint".
Step 2: The Microsoft PowerPoint app will appear first in the search results. Tap on it to proceed with downloading it for your iOS device.
Step 3: Tap on the "Get" button on the app download page to initiate the download.
Alt text: Download Microsoft PowerPoint on your iOS device
Step 4: You might be required to authenticate the download by entering your Apple ID password or using your phone's authentication method.
Step 5: Allow the app to download and install on your device. This process should only take a few moments.
Step 6: Once installed, you can access Microsoft PowerPoint directly from your home screen.
The Microsoft PowerPoint app for both Android and iOS is free to use, but the real deal lies in Microsoft Office for desktops, which can be quite expensive. With each add-on, the costs only go up. You might have come across search results offering cracked versions, but these are often loaded with hidden dangers. Downloading them could infect your system with malware, viruses, and lead to potential privacy breaches, putting your data and device at serious risk.
After some research, I found a simpler and safer alternative—WPS Office. It’s a free, all-in-one office suite with user-friendly apps for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Plus, it offers advanced PDF tools, making it a truly complete package. With such a great free option available, I couldn’t help but ask myself—is Microsoft Office really worth the hassle of activation keys, downloads, and the hefty price tag?
Free Download, Edit, and Save Microsoft PowerPoint Files and Templates
Opting for WPS Office is likely one of the smartest choices you can make. Once you’ve downloaded it, you’ll quickly realize that the hefty price tag of Microsoft Office is just one of its downsides.
5 Benefits of WPS Presentation to Edit and Save Microsoft PowerPoint Presentations
Here are some of the reasons why WPS Office stands out as a much better option for your office needs:
Fully compatible with PowerPoint formats like .ppt, .pptx, and .pptm.
Offers 100,000+ templates for professional and creative slideshows.
Supports cross-platform use on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Includes advanced tools like encryption, charts, and concept maps.
Free to use with an interface similar to Microsoft PowerPoint.
How to Open, Edit, and Save Microsoft PowerPoint Presentations in WPS
Getting started with a new software can always seem a little overwhelming, but WPS Office is designed in such a way that it is very similar to Microsoft Office, making the switch much easier. Here’s how you can edit Microsoft PowerPoint presentations: luckily, there are two simple ways to begin editing your PowerPoint presentations in WPS Office.
The "Open With" Method:
This method is quite simple and is the default Windows method:
Step 1: Right-click on the PowerPoint presentation you want to edit and select the "Open with" option from the context menu.
Step 2: From the list of applications, select "WPS Office" to open your presentation with WPS Office.
In-App Method:
The next method is to open the presentation directly using WPS Office.
Step 1: Open WPS Office on your PC or Mac, and then navigate to the location where your presentation is stored. For example, if it's on your PC, select the path in the "Local" section.
Step 2: After selecting the location, you'll see all the files listed within the WPS Office app, rather than in a separate dialog box. This makes it much easier to find the file.
But if you already have a Microsoft 365 subscription, it's best to get started by downloading Microsoft Office, which will also give you access to Microsoft PowerPoint.
How to Download Microsoft PowerPoint from Microsoft 365
The only way to download Microsoft 365 Office Suite is through Microsoft's official website. You can get started by signing up at Microsoft and then proceed to choose a subscription plan that best suits your needs. The most common plans include Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and their email app, Outlook. If you're still in the decision-making phase, you can try out Microsoft PowerPoint by subscribing to their one-month free trial to see if the subscription cost and features align with your interests.
Steps to Download Microsoft PowerPoint 365 on Windows 11/10
Here’s how you can download and install Microsoft 365 on your Windows 11/10 PC
Step 1: Navigate to Microsoft's official website and authenticate with your credentials (personal or organizational account).
Step 2: Access the Products menu and select Microsoft 365 under the Office category.
Step 3: Click on the “Buy Microsoft 365” button to review available subscription options and proceed with your preferred plan purchase.
Step 4: Complete authentication or account creation if prompted.
Step 5: Locate and select the "Install and more" option in the upper-right corner.
Step 6: Launch the downloaded installation file and follow the setup wizard to complete installation on your Windows system.
Note: Interface options may vary depending on your account type and subscription status.
Step 7: Once the download is complete, simply go to the Start menu and search for “PowerPoint”. The Microsoft PowerPoint app will appear in the search results. Click on it to begin creating your presentations.
System Requirements for Office 365:
Operating System: Windows 11 or Windows 10, version 1809 or later.
Processor: 1.6 GHz or higher, 2-core.
Memory: 4 GB RAM or greater.
Storage: 4 GB of available disk space.
Display: 1280 x 768 screen resolution.
Steps to Download Microsoft 365 on Mac
Follow the steps below to download and install PowerPoint on your MacOS.
Step 1: Visit the Microsoft website and either create a Microsoft 365 account or log into your existing one.
Step 2: After signing in, click on "Install and more" from the homepage.
Step 3: Click "Install" to download the Microsoft Office installer package.
Step 4: Once the installer package is downloaded, open it and follow the prompts to install Microsoft PowerPoint.
Step 5: Open the downloaded (.pkg) file and follow the on-screen instructions to install Office on your Mac. The installation may take a few minutes, so be patient.
Step 6: Once installation is complete, open Finder, go to the “Applications” folder, and locate “Microsoft PowerPoint”.
Note: You can also use Spotlight (Command + Space) to search for it.
Step 7: Open PowerPoint, sign in with your Microsoft account, and activate your subscription to begin using the app.
System Requirements:
Mac OS X 10.14 or newer.
At least 4GB of RAM is recommended.
An updated version of Safari, Chrome, or Edge is required to access online features.
Pros of Microsoft PowerPoint of Microsoft 365
Cloud storage with automatic saving via OneDrive
Regular updates with new features and designs
Advanced animation and transition effects
Live presentation features including subtitles and translation
Cons of Microsoft PowerPoint of Microsoft 365
Requires ongoing subscription payment
Mobile version has reduced capabilities
Compatibility issues may arise with older versions
Complex animations may not work smoothly across all platforms
Template customization can be time-consuming
How to Download Microsoft PowerPoint from Office 2021
If you want to avoid recurring payments but still use Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Office 2021 is a great option. It offers a one-time purchase for the full office suite, including PowerPoint. However, keep in mind that Office 2021 is a standalone product, which means it won't receive future feature updates, such as the latest AI-powered tools like Microsoft Copilot.
Steps to Download Microsoft PowerPoint 2021 on Windows or Mac
Step 1: Open your web browser and go to the Microsoft website, or visit the App Store on your PC or Mac.
Step 2: In the search bar, type "Microsoft PowerPoint 2021" to find the software.
Step 3: Click on the "Download" or "Buy" button, depending on whether you're opting for a free trial or a full purchase.
Step 4: If you choose to buy Microsoft PowerPoint 2021, you will be prompted to sign in with your Microsoft account. After signing in, complete the purchase process by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 5: If you select the download option, the setup file for Microsoft PowerPoint 2021 will be downloaded onto your computer.
Step 6: Once the setup file has finished downloading, open the file and follow the installation prompts to install Microsoft PowerPoint 2021 on both your PC and Mac.
Note: A single Microsoft Office 2021 license can only be activated on either one Windows or one Mac device, so choose carefully which computer you want to use it on.
System Requirements:
Windows 10 or newer, or macOS 10.14 or later.
A dual-core processor with a speed of 1.6 GHz or higher.
At least 4 GB of RAM.
4 GB of available disk space for Windows and 10 GB for macOS.
If you have multiple devices, it’s recommended to purchase a Microsoft 365 subscription, as it allows usage on both Windows and Mac simultaneously, with a limit of up to 5 devices.
Pros of Microsoft PowerPoint of Office 2021
One-time purchase instead of subscription
Works offline without internet requirement
Cons of Microsoft PowerPoint of Office 2021
No mobile access
Limited cloud integration
Restricted to single device installation
How to Download Microsoft PowerPoint 2019/2016/2013
With the release of newer versions prioritized by Microsoft, older versions are no longer available on the platform. This means you cannot officially download, subscribe to, or purchase these older versions anymore. However, if you had purchased them when they were available, you can still download and update Microsoft PowerPoint for free through your Microsoft Account center.
Here is how you can update one of your older version of Microsoft PowerPoint from your Microsoft Account center:
Step 1: Log in to your Microsoft account dashboard using the account associated with your specific Office version.
Step 2: Navigate to the "Services and Subscriptions" section at the top of the page and locate the product you wish to install.
Step 3: Click the “Run” or “Download” button in your browser to begin the installation process.
Step 4: Once the installation is complete, you can find the installed applications on your computer.
System Requirements of Microsoft PowerPoint 2019/2016/2013
The system requirements vary slightly for each of the older Microsoft PowerPoint versions. However, the general requirements for installing Microsoft PowerPoint 2019, 2016, and 2013 are as follows:
Operating System: Windows 10 or newer, macOS Sierra or later
Processor: Dual-core, 1.6 GHz or faster
Memory: 4 GB of RAM
Storage: At least 4 GB of free space for PCs and 10 GB for Macs
How to Download Microsoft PowerPoint 2010/2007
Microsoft discontinued Office 2007 and 2010 back in 2012. However, if you still have a valid product key and the installation disc, you can still install Microsoft Office 2007 or 2010. Since Microsoft PowerPoint was included in these Office suites and not offered as a standalone product, installing PowerPoint individually isn’t an option—you’ll need to install the entire Office suite instead.
Steps to Download Microsoft PowerPoint 2010/2007 with Disc and Product Key
Step 1: Insert the Microsoft Office installation disc into your computer’s disc drive.
Step 2: If the installation doesn’t start automatically, open "My Computer" (or "This PC" on Windows 10) and double-click the disc drive icon to begin the installation.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen prompts to install Microsoft Office.
Step 4: When asked, enter the product key that came with your disc. This key is typically found on a sticker on the disc case or inside it.
Step 5: After entering the product key, continue the installation and wait for Microsoft Office to finish installing.
Step 6: Once the installation is complete, open Microsoft PowerPoint and activate the software.
How to Fix Microsoft PowerPoint Download Fails
Check System Compatibility
Make sure your device meets the minimum system requirements for the PowerPoint version you wish to download.
Verify Device Limits
A Microsoft 365 subscription allows installation on up to 5 devices per account. Exceeding this limit could result in download issues.
Remove Previous Office Versions
If you're upgrading from Office 2021/2019 to Microsoft 365, ensure you uninstall the older version to prevent installation conflicts.
Check Internet Connection
If you're encountering persistent download errors while trying to download Microsoft PowerPoint, the first step is to check your internet connection.
Avoid Downloading Microsoft PowerPoint from Third-party Websites
Downloading from third-party websites can have several consequences, so avoiding it is crucial to:
1. Protect Your System from Malware
Third-party sites may distribute cracked or unauthorized software that contains harmful malware.
2. Prevent Hidden Charges
Some websites might impose hidden fees, leading to unexpected costs.
3. Ensure Software Reliability
Unofficial versions may be outdated or malfunction, leading to performance issues.
4. Safeguard Your Data
Using incompatible software could corrupt or lead to the loss of important files.
5. Avoid Legal Troubles
Downloading unauthorized software can result in legal consequences for breaching copyright laws.
Issues of Using an Old Version of Microsoft PowerPoint
1. Compatibility Issues
Older versions may not open or work properly with newer file formats or software.
2. Missing New Features
You’ll miss out on the latest updates and tools designed to improve productivity and functionality.
3. Performance Slowdowns
Older versions may cause lagging, freezing, or slow response times, impacting your workflow.
4. Security Vulnerabilities
Lack of updates increases the risk of security breaches and malware attacks.
5. Limited or No Support
Microsoft no longer provides support for outdated versions, leaving you without help if problems arise.
6. Decreased Efficiency
Older versions may lack features that streamline your work, leading to a less efficient experience overall.
How to Update Microsoft PowerPoint
If your Microsoft PowerPoint isn't up to date, you may miss out on important new features like updated templates, recent developments with Copilot (the new AI assistant), and other updates. Here's how you can update your PowerPoint:
Step 1: Open Microsoft PowerPoint on your PC or Mac, then click on the "Account" tab at the bottom left corner in the left pane.
Step 2: On the Account page, you'll find the "Update Option" button in the center. Click on it to check for available updates.
Step 3: If updates are available, you can also choose to schedule them.
Upcoming Microsoft Copilot - ChatGPT AI Feature
Microsoft is integrating its AI-powered tool, Copilot, into various Office applications, including PowerPoint, to enhance user productivity in creating and designing presentations with the help of AI:
Draft Creation: Copilot can automatically generate a presentation draft based on a specified topic or existing content. Users provide a prompt, and the AI creates slides that address key points, such as the topic’s purpose, structure, and content.
Summarization: This tool can condense long presentations into clear, concise highlights, allowing users to quickly communicate the most important information.
Design Suggestions: Copilot offers design recommendations and layouts tailored to the content, making it easy for users to create visually attractive presentations.
What’s New in Each Version of Microsoft PowerPoint?
Here’s an overview of the updates in each version of Microsoft PowerPoint:
Microsoft PowerPoint 2021 and 365
Sketched Outline: Users can now customize text box outlines with a sketched appearance for a more personalized touch.
Link to Slide: This feature allows users to create links to specific slides for easier collaboration and navigation.
Record Slide Show: Enhanced recording capabilities improve the experience of presenting remotely, making it easier to share presentations online1.
Microsoft PowerPoint 2019
Text Highlighter: Similar to Word, this feature allows users to highlight text in presentations for emphasis.
Funnel Charts: New chart types like funnel charts help visualize data trends effectively.
Zoom Feature: Users can create interactive presentations by jumping between slides or sections with the Zoom feature.
Remove Image Background: A simplified tool for removing backgrounds from images makes editing easier and more efficient.
Microsoft PowerPoint 2016
Enhanced Collaboration: Real-time collaboration features allow multiple users to work on presentations simultaneously, with visible indicators of who is editing which part.
Text Highlighter: A new tool similar to Word's highlighter enables users to emphasize important text easily.
Document Activity Pane: This feature provides a history of changes made to a presentation, improving version control.
New Chart Types: Six new chart types were added for better data visualization options.
Microsoft PowerPoint 2013
Theme Variants: Users can quickly change color schemes and themes with one click, streamlining the design process.
Slide Zoom: This feature allows users to zoom in on specific parts of a slide during presentations, enhancing focus on key content.
Simplified Sharing: Improved sharing options via SkyDrive or SharePoint enhance collaboration and security.
Reply Comment Feature: Facilitates real-time discussions about specific parts of the presentation among collaborators.
Microsoft PowerPoint 2010
Customizable Ribbon: Users can create custom tabs in the Ribbon for frequently used tools, improving workflow efficiency.
Microsoft PowerPoint 2007
Ribbon Interface: The introduction of the ribbon-based user interface improved navigation and accessibility of tools compared to previous versions.
FAQs about Microsoft Office
1. What happens to my PowerPoint document if I don't renew my Microsoft 365 subscription?
If your Microsoft 365 subscription ends, you’ll only be able to view your PowerPoint presentations without the option to edit them. To restore editing functionality, consider using alternatives like WPS Presentation, a free and user-friendly tool with features similar to Microsoft PowerPoint.
2. Subscription and one-time purchase, which is better?
Your choice depends entirely on your needs and situation. A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access to the software, but you won't receive regular updates. In contrast, a subscription keeps your software up-to-date with the latest features and improvements as soon as they’re released.
3. Can I download Microsoft PowerPoint for free as a student?
Yes, if your institution has an education version license, you can register using your email and download Microsoft Office for free. Additionally, having a ".edu" email address can help you get a 10% discount, but you’ll still need to pay monthly fees to keep your Microsoft Office running smoothly. A better option is WPS Office, which is an excellent choice for students as it offers a free version with multiple functions, such as support for various document formats and tools that meet your academic needs.
4. Can I use Microsoft PowerPoint Offline?
Yes, you can use Microsoft PowerPoint offline. The desktop version allows you to create, edit, and save presentations without an internet connection. However, if you are using PowerPoint through Microsoft 365, you need to connect to the internet at least once every 30 days to maintain full functionality; otherwise, the app may enter a reduced functionality mode where you can only view or print documents.
5. Can I transfer my Microsoft PowerPoint license to a new computer?
Yes, you can transfer your Microsoft PowerPoint license to a new computer. To do this, uninstall PowerPoint from the old computer and then install it on the new one using your Microsoft account. Keep in mind that you can only transfer the license once every 90 days, unless it's due to hardware failure, which allows for an earlier transfer.
Choosing the Right Presentation Tool: PowerPoint or WPS Office?
A good PowerPoint tool should be able to combine ease of use, design versatility, and robust functionality, enabling users to create visually engaging presentations without any obstruction in their way. Whether you're preparing a professional pitch deck, an academic project, or a creative slideshow, having access to intuitive templates, multimedia integration, and dynamic transition effects is key. While Microsoft PowerPoint excels in offering features making it nothing short of a pro tool, WPS Presentation, part of WPS Office, is a strong alternative. It provides an equally comprehensive experience with unique benefits such as free-to-use advanced templates, seamless compatibility with PowerPoint files, and AI-driven design suggestions.
