Key Takeaways
- Essential Tools for Collaboration and Communication: Microsoft 365 Business Basic includes Microsoft Teams, Exchange Online, OneDrive, and SharePoint to help small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) collaborate efficiently.
- Web and Mobile Versions Only: The plan offers web and mobile versions of popular apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint but lacks desktop apps, making it ideal for SMBs prioritizing cloud-based operations.
- Affordable Pricing for SMBs: At $8.10 per user per month, Microsoft 365 Business Basic provides essential features at a budget-friendly price, compared to $17 per user for the Business Standard plan.
- Seamless Remote Work: With cloud-based access, employees can work from any device with an internet connection, ensuring flexibility for remote or distributed teams.
- Limitations in Security and Automation: The Basic plan offers only built-in security and lacks advanced features such as Power Automate, Intune, and Advanced Threat Protection available in higher tiers.
- Comparison with Business Standard: Business Standard includes desktop apps, Yammer, and limited automation tools, making it better suited for businesses needing offline access and more advanced workflows.
- Expert Implementation Support Available: Wingman Solutions can assist with Microsoft 365 setup, email migration, user training, security consulting, and scaling to higher plans.
What is Microsoft 365 Business Basic?
Microsoft 365 Business Basic is an entry-level, cloud-based productivity suite for small and medium-sized businesses. It provides essential tools to help teams collaborate and communicate effectively, including Microsoft Teams for meetings and chats, OneDrive for cloud storage, Exchange Online for business email, and SharePoint for document sharing and management.
Unlike Microsoft 365 Business Standard, Business Basic only offers web and mobile versions of popular apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. However, the plan is ideal for organizations prioritizing remote work and cloud-based tools to stay connected from anywhere. Businesses can easily upgrade their Office 365 subscription to higher tiers if they require additional features like desktop apps, advanced automation, or enhanced security.
Why Microsoft 365 Business Basic is Good for SMBs
Microsoft 365 Business Basic offers SMBs an affordable entry point into Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem, providing essential tools to enhance productivity and collaboration. With features tailored for remote work and streamlined communication, this plan is ideal for businesses looking to operate efficiently without overspending.
Affordable Pricing with Essential Features
If you’re running an SMB, staying within budget is critical. Microsoft 365 Business Basic offers great value at just $8.10 per user per month with an annual commitment. Compared to Microsoft 365 Business Standard, which costs $17 per user per month, Business Basic delivers essential tools at a lower price, making it a smart choice for businesses looking to start with a lean setup.
This pricing flexibility ensures that even small teams can benefit from Microsoft’s cloud solutions without stretching their budget.
Seamless Collaboration and Communication Tools
One of the most significant benefits of Microsoft 365 Basic is its seamless collaboration through Microsoft Teams. Teams allow you to chat, host video meetings, and manage tasks in one place. With integration into SharePoint and OneDrive, you can easily share files, edit documents in real time, and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Whether you’re working remotely or across different locations, these tools simplify teamwork and eliminate the hassle of managing multiple versions of the same document.
Cloud-Based Productivity Anytime, Anywhere
With the Office 365 online license, your business can run smoothly from anywhere. With an internet connection, employees can access web-based apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint from any device. This mobility makes Microsoft 365 Business Basic perfect for remote workers or companies with multiple locations.
You no longer have to worry about software installations — login and get to work from your laptop, tablet, or smartphone. This flexibility ensures your team stays productive no matter where they are.
Limitations of Microsoft 365 Business Basic for SMBs
While Microsoft 365 Business Basic offers essential tools for collaboration and productivity, it may not meet the needs of every business. Some limitations include:
No Desktop Apps for Word, Excel, PowerPoint
While Microsoft 365 Business Basic includes web and mobile versions of Office apps, it does not offer desktop versions. This can be a drawback for businesses that rely heavily on offline access to documents or need the full functionality that only the desktop apps provide. In such cases, Microsoft 365 Business Standard may be a better fit.
Limited Security and Automation Features
Basic users get access to built-in security tools, but the plan lacks the advanced security features available in Microsoft 365 Business Premium. Businesses that require tools like Intune or Advanced Threat Protection may need more than the Microsoft 365 basic plan.
Additionally, Business Basic users have limited access to automation tools like Power Automate, which can streamline processes in larger organizations.
Microsoft 365 Business Basic vs. Microsoft 365 Business Standard
The main difference between Microsoft 365 Business Basic and Microsoft 365 Business Standard is the inclusion of desktop apps and advanced features. Business Basic offers web and mobile versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, email, OneDrive, and Teams, making it ideal for SMBs focused on cloud-based tools and budget-friendly solutions.
In contrast, Business Standard includes everything in the Basic plan plus desktop apps, Yammer for social networking, and limited access to Power Automate and Power Apps for light automation. This plan suits businesses needing offline access or more advanced tools to support complex workflows.
Below is a comparison chart to highlight the key differences between the two plans:
| Feature | Microsoft 365 Business Basic | Microsoft 365 Business Standard |
| Office Apps | Web and mobile only | Desktop, web, and mobile |
| Microsoft Teams | Included | Included |
| Email (Exchange Online) | Included (50 GB mailbox) | Included (50 GB mailbox) |
| OneDrive (Cloud Storage) | 1 TB per user | 1 TB per user |
| SharePoint (Document Management) | Included | Included |
| Yammer (Enterprise Social Network) | Not included | Included |
| Power Automate & Power Apps | Not included | Limited access |
| Price (per user per month) | $8.10 | $17 |
Choosing between Microsoft 365 Business Basic and Microsoft 365 Business Standard depends on your business needs. If your team works primarily online and requires cost-effective tools, Microsoft 365 Basic is a good starting point. However, businesses that rely on offline access and advanced features may find the added investment in Microsoft 365 Business Standard worthwhile for enhanced productivity and flexibility.
How to Choose the Right Microsoft 365 Plan for Your SMB
Choosing the right Microsoft 365 plan for your SMB requires understanding your specific needs, workstyle, and growth plans. Here are a few key points to consider before making a decision:
Assess Your Business Needs and Budget
If you’re starting or have a small team, Microsoft 365 Business Basic offers a solid foundation without breaking the bank. However, if your team needs desktop apps or advanced features, consider the Office 365 pricing structure to see if Microsoft 365 Business Standard or Premium better fits your needs.
Consider Your Workforce’s Workstyle
Microsoft 365 Basic’s cloud-based access makes it easy for businesses with remote teams to collaborate from anywhere. Business Standard’s desktop apps will be more helpful if your employees work primarily offline.
Plan for Growth and Security Needs
If you expect your business to grow or need advanced security tools to manage employee devices, upgrading to Microsoft 365 Business Premium may be worth upgrading. The Office 365 subscription plans are scalable, so you can start with Basic and upgrade as your needs evolve.
Summing Up: Is Microsoft 365 Business Basic Right for Your SMB?
Microsoft 365 Business Basic is a budget-friendly solution for SMBs seeking essential productivity tools. It provides access to cloud-based apps like Teams, OneDrive, SharePoint, and Exchange, making it ideal for businesses focused on remote collaboration and streamlined communication. With an affordable Office 365 subscription starting at $8.10 per user per month, Microsoft 365 Basic offers a solid foundation for small teams to stay connected and productive.
While it’s a great starting point, businesses needing desktop apps, advanced automation, or enhanced security may find more value in Microsoft 365 Business Standard or Premium. The flexibility to upgrade ensures that your tools can scale with your organization through Microsoft’s Office 365 online license plans as your organization grows.
If you’re ready to implement Microsoft 365 Business Basic or explore other Microsoft 365 plans, consider partnering with one of the best Mississauga IT companies to ensure a smooth setup and ongoing support for your business’s growth and productivity. Contact us today!
FAQs About Microsoft 365 Business Basic
- Can Microsoft 365 Business Basic support email migration from other platforms?
Yes, Microsoft 365 Business Basic supports email migration from platforms like Gmail or on-premises Outlook. We offer Microsoft 365 consultations at Wingman Solutions to help plan and execute your email migration seamlessly.
- Does Microsoft 365 Business Basic offer data backup solutions?
Microsoft 365 comes with built-in data redundancy across its services, but for additional peace of mind, businesses can integrate advanced cloud backup solutions through managed IT providers like Wingman Solutions. This ensures that your files remain accessible and secure, even in case of accidental deletion or cyberattacks.
- What can Wingman Solutions do to help with Microsoft 365 Business Basic?
Wingman Solutions offers full support for Microsoft 365 implementation and optimization. Our services include:
- Email migration to Microsoft 365
- User training to help employees make the most of Microsoft tools
- Security consulting, including best practices and implementation of advanced security measures
- Ongoing IT support for troubleshooting and management
- Guidance on scaling or upgrading to Business Standard or Premium plans as your business grows
Whether you are setting up Microsoft 365 for the first time or need help with ongoing maintenance, Wingman Solutions ensures a smooth, secure, and efficient experience tailored to your business needs.
