Overview
Microsoft Visio is a diagramming app available in web-based and desktop plans. The tiers differ in whether you get the full desktop app and advanced features. This guide compares them to help you choose.
Key Takeaways
- Visio comes in web-based and desktop plans.
- Lower tiers offer web diagramming with core shapes and templates.
- Higher tiers add the full desktop app and advanced capabilities.
- Some Microsoft 365 subscriptions include a basic web Visio.
The Plans at a Glance
- Visio in Microsoft 365 — lightweight web diagramming included with some subscriptions.
- Visio Plan 1 — web-based Visio with more templates and storage.
- Visio Plan 2 — includes the full desktop app plus advanced features and data linking.
- Visio desktop (one-time purchase) — a standalone perpetual license for the desktop app.
How to Choose
1. For occasional simple diagrams, the web version may be enough.
2. For richer web diagramming, choose Plan 1.
3. For the full desktop app and advanced features, choose Plan 2.
4. If you prefer a one-time purchase, consider the standalone desktop edition.
Note: Features and pricing change over time; check Microsoft’s official Visio plans page for current details before buying.
Troubleshooting
Problem: You need the desktop app.
Solution: Choose Visio Plan 2 or the standalone desktop edition; web-only plans do not include it.
Problem: A feature is missing on the web.
Solution: Advanced capabilities like certain data linking require Plan 2 or the desktop app.
Problem: You are unsure what your subscription includes.
Solution: Check your account or the Microsoft 365 admin center for your Visio entitlement.
Problem: You want a one-time purchase.
Solution: Buy the standalone Visio desktop edition rather than a subscription plan.
Conclusion
Visio ranges from lightweight web diagramming to the full desktop app in Plan 2. Match the plan to whether you need the desktop application and advanced features, and verify current details on Microsoft’s site.
About TechHub
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