Apache OpenOffice: Download the Classic Free Office Suite

Apache OpenOffice is one of the longest-running free office suites. It is still maintained by The Apache Software Foundation and remains a simple option for writing letters, keeping spreadsheets and making slides without paying for a license.

The six applications

• Writer: Word processor with styles, tables and mail merge.
• Calc: Spreadsheet with formulas, charts and data filters.
• Impress: Presentations with slide transitions and a presenter view.
• Draw: Diagrams, flowcharts and simple illustrations.
• Base: A desktop database front end.
• Math: A formula editor for equations.

OpenOffice saves in the OpenDocument format (.odt, .ods, .odp) by default and can open and save Microsoft Office files.

How to download

1. The Download button opens the official download page on openoffice.org.
2. Choose your operating system, language and the full installation package. Language packs are offered separately.
3. Run the installer and start any of the applications from the OpenOffice start center.

Some features, such as parts of Base, use Java. If OpenOffice asks for a Java runtime, you can install one or skip those features.

Should you pick OpenOffice or LibreOffice?

Both suites come from the same original code. Apache OpenOffice receives updates at a slow pace, mostly maintenance and security fixes, while LibreOffice is developed more actively and generally handles newer Microsoft formats better. OpenOffice is still a reasonable choice if you already know it or need a light, familiar suite.

For plain-text notes and quick edits alongside it, Notepad++ is a handy companion on Windows.