LibreOffice is thriving: downloads surge for the free Word

The open-source office suite LibreOffice is experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity, with nearly one million weekly downloads—the highest figure recorded since 2023. This growth follows the release of version 25.2, which introduced multiple refinements and improvements, further solidifying LibreOffice’s position as the most widely used open-source productivity suite.

Unlike Microsoft Word, LibreOffice remains completely free, allowing users to work without subscriptions, mandatory accounts, or constant internet access. According to The Document Foundation, the organization behind LibreOffice, the suite now boasts around 200 million users worldwide. However, the exact number remains uncertain, as the foundation does not track users to respect privacy concerns.

Like Word for free: A strong alternative to subscription-based software

LibreOffice’s rise in popularity reflects a growing demand for offline, one-time purchase alternatives to cloud-based office tools. Many users, including individuals, businesses, and government institutions, prefer software that does not require a persistent internet connection or enforce AI-driven features.

For example, in 2023, the German state of Schleswig-Holstein announced its transition from Microsoft Office to LibreOffice, migrating 30,000 computers to the open-source platform. This shift highlights a broader trend where organizations seek cost-effective, privacy-conscious solutions without vendor lock-in.

No AI, no subscriptions, just productivity

Unlike Microsoft and Google, which aggressively integrate artificial intelligence into their office tools, LibreOffice remains focused on a simple, user-friendly experience. The Document Foundation has confirmed that it has no plans to include AI-driven features, though third-party developers are free to create extensions for those who desire such capabilities.

With its no-cost model, robust functionality, and widespread adoption, LibreOffice continues to prove that powerful office software does not have to come with a price tag.