WPS OfficeLinux
vs
LibreOfficeWindows
WPS Office as a Linux alternative to LibreOffice
Updated
Our verdict
WPS Office is a strong replacement for users who prioritize Microsoft Office compatibility over open-source principles. It handles Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files better than LibreOffice in many cases, thanks to its proprietary engine. However, it lacks LibreOffice's database (Base) and vector graphics (Draw) components, which are significant gaps for technical users. If you rely on Base or Draw, WPS is not a full substitute. For standard office work, it is a viable, polished alternative, but you must accept proprietary licensing and cloud-centric features.
- License
- LicenseRef-proprietary=https://www.wps.c…
- Price
- freemium
- Latest version
- 11.1.0.11723 (February 22, 2024)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Handles core word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation tasks
- Supports rich text formatting and complex document structures
- Includes charting and data analysis tools in the spreadsheet module
- Provides a familiar interface for users coming from Microsoft Office
What is different
Opening your LibreOffice files
WPS Office is designed for deep compatibility with Microsoft Office formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx), which often results in better fidelity when opening files created in MS Office. However, it does not natively support LibreOffice's native .odt, .ods, or .odp formats as well as LibreOffice itself. While it can open these files, complex layouts or specific LibreOffice extensions may not render correctly. Exporting to MS Office formats is generally reliable, but exporting back to ODF may lose some formatting details.
Switching from LibreOffice to WPS Office, step by step
- Install WPS Office via Flathub or the official Kingsoft repository
- Set WPS as the default application for .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx files
- Test a sample of your most complex LibreOffice documents in WPS
- Check if any macros in your Writer documents require VBA compatibility settings
- Back up your LibreOffice user profile before uninstalling if you plan to switch completely
- Review privacy settings to disable cloud sync if you prefer local-only storage
Key features of WPS Office
- Full compatibility with .docx, .xlsx, .pptx
- Ribbon‑style interface resembling Microsoft Office
- Integrated PDF viewer and editor
- Cloud sync via WPS Cloud
- Spell‑check and grammar tools
- Built‑in template library
- Support for macros in Writer
- Cross‑platform availability (Windows, macOS, Linux)
How to install WPS Office on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.wps.OfficeFrequently asked questions
Can WPS Office replace LibreOffice Base?
No. WPS Office does not have a database management component. If you use Base for data entry or reporting, you will need to keep LibreOffice or find a separate database tool.
Is WPS Office free?
Yes, the core suite is free to use. However, it is proprietary, and some advanced features or cloud storage may require a paid subscription.
Does WPS support LibreOffice macros?
WPS supports VBA macros, which are common in Microsoft Office. It does not natively support LibreOffice Basic macros. You may need to convert macros if you rely on them.
2 other alternatives to LibreOffice
ONLYOFFICE Desktop EditorsONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors is a free, open‑source office suite for Linux that edits Word, Excel, PowerPoint…Open sourceFreeFlatpakONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors vs LibreOffice
CalligraCalligra is a free, open-source office suite for Linux offering word processing, spreadsheets, presentations…Open sourceFreeFlatpakCalligra vs LibreOffice