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# Microsoft Word vs Ulysses Comparison - What are their main differences?

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Microsoft WordUlysses[+ Add Product](#)

Pricing

**Microsoft Word**
No pricing available

**Ulysses**
Free Trial

**$39.99** 1 user Per Year · Businesses & Organizations

**Pricing Insights**
from reviews

Time to Implement

**Microsoft Word**
3 months

Based on 42 responses

**Ulysses**
Not enough reviews yet

Return on Investment

**Microsoft Word**
13 months

Based on 39 responses

**Ulysses**
Not enough reviews yet

Perceived Cost

**Microsoft Word**
$$$$$

**Ulysses**
$$$$$

Average Discount

**Microsoft Word**
10%

**Ulysses**
Not enough reviews yet

**Pros & Cons**
from reviews

**Microsoft Word**
[
Ease of Use (64)
](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-word/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1500460&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Features (47)
](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-word/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1500471&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Missing Features (19)
](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-word/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1500710&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Difficulty (17)
](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-word/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1500621&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)

**Ulysses**
[
Ease of Use (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/ulysses/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=2495997&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Easy Integrations (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/ulysses/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=2496001&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Difficulty (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/ulysses/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=2495999&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Learning Curve (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/ulysses/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=2495998&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)

Integrations

**Microsoft Word**
[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_e89d21750715f4646ed61c011b2917dc/adobe-acrobat.png "Product Avatar Image")

Adobe Acrobat

](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-acrobat/reviews)[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_5770d878862b57fabe977ea85a889ca0/canopy-2026-05-12%282%29.png "Product Avatar Image")

Canopy

](https://www.g2.com/products/canopy-2026-05-12/reviews)[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_4c697348c4308e45662f69fd954993d8/docusign.png "Product Avatar Image")

Docusign

](https://www.g2.com/products/docusign/reviews)[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_20c010d5090054533c1b561ee4a019f9/dropbox.png "Product Avatar Image")

Dropbox

](https://www.g2.com/products/dropbox/reviews)[
View all
](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-word/integrations)

**Ulysses**
[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_4aada3525836409d6774553468d34c18/wordpress-com.jpg "Product Avatar Image")

WordPress.com

](https://www.g2.com/products/wordpress-com/reviews)[
View all
](https://www.g2.com/products/ulysses/integrations)

Screenshots

**Microsoft Word**
 ![Microsoft Word screenshot](https://images.g2crowd.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=600,height=600,fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,/https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/attachment/file/33179/Microsoft_20Word_Screenshot-3.png)

**Ulysses**
 ![Ulysses screenshot](https://images.g2crowd.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=600,height=600,fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,/https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/attachment/file/35387/Device-Assembly-2.jpg)

**Ratings**
from reviews

Meets Requirements

**Microsoft Word**

9.4

9.41,520

**Ulysses**

8.8

8.820

Ease of Use

**Microsoft Word**

9.2

9.21,536

**Ulysses**

9.2

9.220

Ease of Setup

**Microsoft Word**

9.4

9.4376

**Ulysses**
Not enough data

Ease of Admin

**Microsoft Word**

9.2

9.2159

**Ulysses**
Not enough data

Quality of Support

**Microsoft Word**

8.8

8.81,232

**Ulysses**

9.2

9.215

Has the product been a good partner in doing business?

**Microsoft Word**

9.0

9.0151

**Ulysses**
Not enough data

Product Direction (% positive)

**Microsoft Word**

8.9

8.91,420

**Ulysses**

8.1

8.118

**Features**
ratings from reviews

Document Creation[Hide 23 FeaturesShow 23 Features](javascript:void(0);)

8.3

823

Not enough data

Design

Graphics

8.3(won by default)

679

Not enough data

Templates

8.7(won by default)

708

Not enough data

Themes

8.4(won by default)

647

Not enough data

Collaboration

Multi-User Collaboration

8.2(won by default)

621

Feature Not Available

Real-Time Communication

7.9(won by default)

538

Feature Not Available

File Types

Export

9.2(won by default)

717

Not enough data

Import

8.6(won by default)

682

Not enough data

Web Publishing

8.3(won by default)

492

Not enough data

Edit & Revise

Revision History

8.7(won by default)

668

Not enough data

Suggestion Mode

8.4(won by default)

643

Not enough data

Document Editor

9.2(won by default)

740

Not enough data

Integrate & Embed

Calendar

8.3(won by default)

515

Feature Not Available

Website

8.3(won by default)

488

Feature Not Available

Applications

8.6(won by default)

547

Feature Not Available

Operating System

PC Operating System

9.3(won by default)

650

Feature Not Available

Mac Operating System

8.5(won by default)

442

Not enough data

Linux Operating System

7.6(won by default)

336

Feature Not Available

Generative AI

AI Text Generation

7.6(won by default)

141

Not enough data

AI Text Summarization

7.8(won by default)

135

Not enough data

AI Text-to-Image

6.9(won by default)

128

Feature Not Available

AI Text-to-Speech

7.1(won by default)

127

Feature Not Available

AI Image-to-Text

6.9(won by default)

126

Feature Not Available

Agentic AI - Document Creation

Proactive Assistance

6.7(won by default)

47

Feature Not Available

Show 1 feature category with incomplete data

Collaboration & Productivity[Hide 45 FeaturesShow 45 Features](javascript:void(0);)

Not enough data

Not enough data

Additional Functionality

Third-Party Integrations

Not enough data

Not enough data

To-Do List

Not enough data

Not enough data

@mentions

Not enough data

Not enough data

Single Sign On

Not enough data

Not enough data

File Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Activity Dashboard

Not enough data

Not enough data

Drag & Drop

Not enough data

Not enough data

Alerts/Notifications

Not enough data

Not enough data

Prioritization

Not enough data

Not enough data

Access Controls/Permissions

Not enough data

Not enough data

Screen Sharing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Content Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Brainstorming

Not enough data

Not enough data

AI Copilot

Not enough data

Not enough data

File Transfer

Not enough data

Not enough data

Calendar Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Status Tracking

Not enough data

Not enough data

Real-Time Notifications

Not enough data

Not enough data

Version Control

Not enough data

Not enough data

Task Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Activity Tracking

Not enough data

Not enough data

Real Time Editing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Communication Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Chat/Messaging

Not enough data

Not enough data

Tagging

Not enough data

Not enough data

Generative AI

Not enough data

Not enough data

Assignment Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Task Scheduling

Not enough data

Not enough data

Project Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Collaboration Tools

Not enough data

Not enough data

Workflow Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Secure Data Storage

Not enough data

Not enough data

File Sharing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Document Storage

Not enough data

Not enough data

Task Progress Tracking

Not enough data

Not enough data

Discussions/Forums

Not enough data

Not enough data

Commenting/Notes

Not enough data

Not enough data

Reporting & Statistics

Not enough data

Not enough data

Contact Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Video Conferencing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Progress Tracking

Not enough data

Not enough data

Mobile Access

Not enough data

Not enough data

API

Not enough data

Not enough data

Document Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Customizable Branding

Not enough data

Not enough data

User Insights

Reviewers' Company Size

[![Microsoft Word](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1487565787/microsoft-word.svg "Microsoft Word")](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-word/reviews)

Microsoft Word

Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)

39.5%

Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)

31.7%

Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.)

28.7%

[![Ulysses](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_a6025794819162c946fc97deb75cf108/ulysses.png "Ulysses")](https://www.g2.com/products/ulysses/reviews)

Ulysses

Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)

72.0%

Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)

12.0%

Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.)

16.0%

Small-Business

(50 or fewer emp.)

39.5%

72.0%

Mid-Market

(51-1000 emp.)

31.7%

12.0%

Enterprise

(\> 1000 emp.)

28.7%

16.0%

Reviewers' Industry

[![Microsoft Word](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1487565787/microsoft-word.svg "Microsoft Word")](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-word/reviews)
Microsoft Word

Information Technology and Services

10.0%

Computer Software

7.3%

Higher Education

6.0%

Education Management

3.8%

Marketing and Advertising

3.7%

Other

69.3%

[![Ulysses](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_a6025794819162c946fc97deb75cf108/ulysses.png "Ulysses")](https://www.g2.com/products/ulysses/reviews)
Ulysses

Writing and Editing

16.0%

Internet

12.0%

Information Technology and Services

12.0%

Computer Software

12.0%

Publishing

4.0%

Other

44.0%

FAQs

## Microsoft Word vs Ulysses FAQs

Generated using AI

Last updated: August 14, 2026

### What is the difference between Microsoft Word vs Ulysses?

Microsoft Word stands out for its advanced editing and collaboration tools, while Ulysses is favored for its clean, distraction-free writing environment.

| [Microsoft Word](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-word/reviews) | [Ulysses](https://www.g2.com/products/ulysses/reviews) |
| --- | --- |
| 4.7/5 (2063 reviews) | 4.5/5 (25 reviews) |
| Small-Business | Small-Business |
| 7.0 | 7.0 |
| 6.0 | 7.0 |
| Advanced editing and review tools, including Track Changes and robust version history | Clean and minimalistic interface that helps writers focus on content |

### How do the pricing models of Microsoft Word and Ulysses compare?

Microsoft Word is rated higher for value, with reviewers expressing greater satisfaction with its pricing compared to Ulysses.

- **Microsoft Word:** Reviewers describe the Microsoft 365 subscription as offering strong value due to its comprehensive feature set and integration with other Microsoft products.
- **Ulysses:** In recent reviews, several reviewers mention that the subscription is quite high per year and express a desire for more flexible plan options.

### What are the best alternatives to Microsoft Word and Ulysses?

The top three alternatives to Microsoft Word and Ulysses are Adobe Acrobat, Pages, and Foxit PDF Editor.

| Product | G2 Rating (reviews) | Largest Segment | Pricing Insight | Top Reviewer-Cited Strength |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Microsoft Word](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-word/reviews) | 4.7/5 (2063 reviews) | Small-Business | Reviewers see strong value in the Microsoft 365 subscription | Advanced editing and review tools, including Track Changes and robust version history |
| [Ulysses](https://www.g2.com/products/ulysses/reviews) | 4.5/5 (25 reviews) | Small-Business | Subscription is considered high per year by reviewers | Clean and minimalistic interface that helps writers focus on content |
| [Adobe Acrobat](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-acrobat/reviews) | 4.5/5 (5333 reviews) | Small-Business | — | Comprehensive PDF editing and document management capabilities |
| [Pages](https://www.g2.com/products/pages/reviews) | 4.3/5 (376 reviews) | Small-Business | — | Intuitive interface and strong integration with Apple devices |
| [Foxit PDF Editor](https://www.g2.com/products/foxit-pdf-editor/reviews) | 4.6/5 (3706 reviews) | Small-Business | — | Efficient PDF editing and lightweight performance |

### Which Document Creation features should I prioritize when comparing Microsoft Word and Ulysses?

Buyers should prioritize collaboration tools, document organization, formatting flexibility, template availability, and platform compatibility when comparing Microsoft Word and Ulysses.

- **Collaboration tools:** Microsoft Word is frequently cited for its Track Changes, comments, and real-time co-authoring features; Ulysses reviewers note limited collaboration capabilities.
- **Document organization:** Ulysses is praised for its clean interface and folder-based organization; Microsoft Word offers navigation panes and structured formatting for large documents.
- **Formatting flexibility:** Microsoft Word receives consistent praise for advanced formatting and editing tools; Ulysses is valued for Markdown support and distraction-free writing.
- **Template availability:** Microsoft Word is highlighted for its vast library of built-in templates; Ulysses offers export styles but with less emphasis on template variety.
- **Platform compatibility:** Microsoft Word is available across Windows, Mac, and web; Ulysses is exclusive to the Apple ecosystem, as noted by reviewers.

### What are the pros and cons of Microsoft Word vs Ulysses?

Microsoft Word's headline strength is its robust editing and collaboration features, while Ulysses is recognized for its clean, focused writing environment.

- **Microsoft Word strengths:** Advanced editing and review tools, including Track Changes, comments, and version history; broad compatibility and professional formatting; extensive template library; strong integration with Microsoft 365 apps.
- **Microsoft Word trade-offs:** Reviewers note performance slowdowns with large or complex documents, occasional formatting inconsistencies, and a cluttered interface for new users.
- **Ulysses strengths:** Clean, minimalistic interface that helps writers focus; strong Markdown support; praised for distraction-free writing and organization features.
- **Ulysses trade-offs:** Reviewers mention the subscription cost as high, limited collaboration features, and platform exclusivity to Apple devices.

### Is Microsoft Word or Ulysses better for small businesses?

Microsoft Word is the stronger fit for small businesses, supported by its dominant presence in the small-business segment and positive reviewer sentiment.

- **Microsoft Word:** Largest segment is Small-Business; reviewers consistently highlight its reliability, compatibility, and comprehensive feature set for business documentation.
- **Ulysses:** Largest segment is Small-Business; reviewers appreciate its focused writing environment but note limitations in collaboration and platform support for business use.

### Which Document Creation platform has better integrations?

Microsoft Word is favored for integrations, with reviewers highlighting its strong connections to other Microsoft 365 applications.

- **Microsoft Word:** Reviewers frequently mention integration with OneDrive, Outlook, Teams, and Excel as key strengths for document management and collaboration.
- **Ulysses:** Reviewers cite integration with iCloud and WordPress, with additional mentions of Medium and Ghost for publishing workflows.

### How do Microsoft Word and Ulysses compare on customer support?

Ulysses scores higher on Quality of Support, 9.2 versus Microsoft Word's 8.8, but both products receive positive support feedback from reviewers.

- **Microsoft Word:** Reviewers describe support as extensive, with a large knowledge base, tutorials, and community resources, though some mention slower resolution for technical issues.
- **Ulysses:** Reviewers consistently praise responsive and helpful support, with several noting positive experiences navigating technical challenges and onboarding.

### Which is easier to implement, Microsoft Word or Ulysses?

Microsoft Word and Ulysses are rated equally on Ease of Setup, both scoring 7.0, indicating parity in implementation experience.

- **Microsoft Word:** Reviewers describe setup as straightforward, with most users able to begin working productively with minimal onboarding.
- **Ulysses:** Reviewers highlight easy installation and a quick learning curve, especially for those familiar with the Apple ecosystem.

### Which product has better Templates?

Microsoft Word is the clear leader for Templates, as it is the most frequently mentioned feature across both products' reviews.

- **Microsoft Word:** Reviewers consistently praise the extensive library of built-in templates, with many citing templates as a major time-saver for creating professional documents.
- **Ulysses:** Reviewers mention export styles and Markdown formatting, but templates are not a prominent theme in recent feedback.

Alternatives

**Microsoft Word Alternatives**

 ![Adobe Acrobat](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/f70633054b433f46ad80f9667092d308/adobe-acrobat.svg "Adobe Acrobat")

[
Adobe Acrobat
](/products/adobe-acrobat/reviews)

 ![Dropbox Paper](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1554994524/dropbox-paper.png "Dropbox Paper")

[
Dropbox Paper
](/products/dropbox-paper/reviews)

 ![Foxit PDF Editor](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1704327af4e4eb2d2174535f45143cf5/foxit-pdf-editor.svg "Foxit PDF Editor")

[
Foxit PDF Editor
](/products/foxit-pdf-editor/reviews)

 ![Pages](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_3f17c2ccac161e2276a1f8a4088dfe4d/pages.jpg "Pages")

[
Pages
](/products/pages/reviews)

**Ulysses Alternatives**

 ![Pages](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_3f17c2ccac161e2276a1f8a4088dfe4d/pages.jpg "Pages")

[
Pages
](/products/pages/reviews)

 ![Scrivener](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_367574e9b6bfffbc6557eb9a2640ca7c/scrivener.png "Scrivener")

[
Scrivener
](/products/scrivener/reviews)

 ![iA Writer](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_9bea5001f9b46f04caba8e2f18d5f1d2/ia-writer.png "iA Writer")

[
iA Writer
](/products/ia-writer/reviews)

 ![Final Draft](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_d6d0a196349235f81b4efaec465b31be/final-draft.png "Final Draft")

[
Final Draft
](/products/final-draft/reviews)