Can You Run Microsoft Office on a Chromebook?

January 15, 2026 · Software Compatibility

Introduction

Chromebooks run Chrome OS, which is built around the Chrome browser and Android apps. Microsoft Office is available on Chromebooks, but not in the same way you’d use it on Windows. Here’s exactly what works and what doesn’t.

Key Takeaways

• No desktop Office — The full Win32 version of Office cannot run on Chrome OS.
• Android apps available — Word, Excel, and PowerPoint from the Play Store work on most Chromebooks.
• Web apps are solid — Microsoft 365 online (office.com) runs well in Chrome and is free for basic use.
• Feature gaps exist — Both Android and web versions lack advanced features like macros, pivot chart customization, and some add-ins.
• Offline editing is possible — The Android apps support offline mode.

Microsoft 365 Web Apps

The most straightforward way to use Office on a Chromebook is through the browser:

• Navigate to office.com and sign in with a Microsoft account.
• Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote are available.
• Files are stored in OneDrive by default.
• Real-time collaboration works the same as on any other platform.

The web apps handle everyday document editing well but lack advanced desktop features like complex macros, mail merge, and advanced data analysis tools.

Android Apps from the Play Store

If your Chromebook supports the Google Play Store:

1. Open the Play Store and search for Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.
2. Install the apps — they’re free to download.
3. Sign in with your Microsoft account.
4. A Microsoft 365 subscription is needed for full editing on screens larger than 10.1 inches.

The Android apps offer a more touch-friendly, mobile-optimized experience. They support offline editing and have more features than the web versions, but still fall short of the full desktop suite.

What Doesn’t Work

• VBA macros — Neither web nor Android versions run macros.
• COM add-ins — Desktop-only.
• Access and Publisher — Not available outside Windows.
• Advanced Excel features — Power Query, Power Pivot, and complex data models are desktop-only.

Alternatives

If the web and Android versions are too limiting, consider:

• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) — Native to Chrome OS, excellent compatibility.
• LibreOffice via Linux — If your Chromebook supports Linux (Crostini), you can install the full LibreOffice suite.

Conclusion

Microsoft Office works on Chromebooks through web apps and Android apps, covering most common productivity tasks. For advanced features like macros or Access databases, you’ll need a Windows or macOS machine. Most everyday users will find the web version more than sufficient.