What’s the Difference Between Microsoft 365 E3 and Office 365 E3?

The primary difference between Microsoft 365 E3 and Office 365 E3 lies in their scope. Microsoft 365 E3 includes Office 365 E3’s core productivity apps and adds advanced device management, security features, and Windows Enterprise licensing.

Understanding Microsoft 365 E3 and Office 365 E3

Microsoft and Office 365 E3 plans are designed for enterprises, offering tools that improve productivity, collaboration, and security. While the names may sound similar, they serve different purposes. Office 365 E3 focuses solely on productivity apps, while Microsoft 365 E3 provides an all-in-one solution, combining productivity tools with enhanced security and management capabilities.

Key Differences Between Microsoft 365 E3 and Office 365 E3

1. Included Services

Microsoft 365 E3 is broader, encompassing Office 365 E3 along with Windows Enterprise and Enterprise Mobility + Security.

2. Security and Compliance

Microsoft 365 E3 offers enhanced security features through Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS), such as:

• Azure Active Directory Premium P1: Enables advanced identity and access management, like conditional access and MFA.
• Microsoft Intune: Provides mobile device and application management.
• Advanced Compliance Tools: Includes eDiscovery and DLP policies for both apps and devices.

Office 365 E3, while secure, focuses mainly on data protection within the productivity suite (email and document sharing).

3. Device Management and Windows Licensing

Microsoft 365 E3 includes device management capabilities like Intune and Windows Autopilot, allowing organizations to streamline device setups and apply company-wide policies. It also provides licensing for Windows 11/10 Enterprise, ensuring enterprise-grade OS features.

Office 365 E3 lacks device management tools and operating system licensing, focusing only on app-based productivity.

4. Pricing and Value

Microsoft 365 E3 costs more than Office 365 E3 but offers a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to simplify IT management and enhance security. The additional features make it ideal for organizations with complex IT needs.

When to Choose Microsoft 365 E3 or Office 365 E3

• Choose Microsoft 365 E3 if your organization requires:
  • Windows Enterprise licensing.
  • Centralized device and application management.
  • Advanced security features for users and devices.
• Choose Office 365 E3 if your organization:
  • Focuses primarily on productivity tools.
  • Does not need Windows Enterprise licensing or device management.

Conclusion

Microsoft 365 E3 combines productivity tools, advanced security, and device management, offering an all-in-one enterprise solution. Office 365 E3 focuses solely on productivity, making it suitable for organizations with simpler IT requirements. By understanding your business needs, you can decide which plan aligns with your goals.

Ready to choose the right Microsoft solution for your business?

Medha Cloud helps you implement and manage Microsoft 365 E3 and Office 365 E3 to meet your business goals.