What is LibreOffice Writer?
LibreOffice Writer is the desktop word processor in the free, open-source LibreOffice suite. It supports OpenDocument workflows, Microsoft Word file exchange and PDF output.
Who is LibreOffice Writer for?
People choosing a no-cost desktop editor and teams prepared to validate their document formats and support arrangements.
A desktop alternative for document work
Writer is included in LibreOffice’s free, open-source suite. It is worth shortlisting when an installed editor and control of local document files fit the work. The purchase decision still includes the time needed to move templates and teach the review process.
Keep the file format, application and support arrangement separate. Choosing an editor does not decide who will maintain the devices, preserve document versions or help staff resolve a formatting issue.
LibreOffice Writer features
The core capabilities to consider for your workflow.
- Installed document editing on Windows, macOS and Linux
- OpenDocument and Word file handling
- PDF export for document delivery
Check the receiving format
LibreOffice’s Office-file instructions cover opening and saving Word documents. The official bookshelf also describes Writer’s PDF output. Use an editable format for continued authoring and a reviewed delivery copy for final distribution.
The system requirements cover Windows, macOS and Linux. Match the actual release and operating system before deployment. A local desktop editor is a different arrangement from buying a hosted collaboration workspace.
LibreOffice Writer pricing
Free desktop software
No subscription is required for the community desktop download. Budget separately for deployment, training, template changes and any contracted support.
Calculate the cost of your quote →Free access & evaluation
Writer is included in the no-cost LibreOffice desktop suite. Professional support and enterprise partner products are separate purchases.
Free software and contracted support are separate
The community suite has no purchase fee. Migration, training and professional support can still require a budget. The Document Foundation’s business guidance points organisations towards ecosystem partners for contracted service and assistance.
Ask for the scope of support, deployment help and template work. A download being free does not establish a service-level agreement or a complete organisational migration at no cost.
Before you choose LibreOffice Writer
Complex Word formatting and revision details can need rework after conversion.
Opening an Office file does not establish that its VBA automation will run.
The community download does not include a contracted technical-support service from The Document Foundation.
Validate complex Word documents before switching
LibreOffice’s conversion guidance identifies potential differences in complex formatting and review details. Check the returned document in the receiving version of Word, including page flow, tables and revision marks.
Office macro compatibility is a separate issue: the macro guidance explains that the two applications generally do not execute the same code. Inventory automation without enabling unfamiliar macros. Use Word versus Writer to plan a document-by-document review.
Explore LibreOffice Writer in more detail
Take a closer look at the decisions behind this product.
Microsoft Word vs LibreOffice Writer
Read the articleCompare LibreOffice Writer
Explore the individual profiles
LibreOffice Writer FAQs
Is LibreOffice Writer free?
Yes. Writer is part of the free, open-source LibreOffice desktop suite. Contracted support and professional migration services are separate.
Can LibreOffice Writer open and save DOCX files?
Yes. LibreOffice documents Word file opening and saving, including DOCX. Check the returned file when layout or review details are important.
Will a complex Word document look exactly the same in Writer?
Do not assume that. LibreOffice documents conversion differences involving formatting and document features. Review representative files in both applications before migrating.
Can LibreOffice Writer export PDF?
Yes. The official Writer documentation describes PDF export. Review the output before distributing a final copy.
Does LibreOffice Writer run on Linux?
LibreOffice provides Linux, Windows and macOS system requirements. Check the selected release against the actual computer and operating system.
Does the free LibreOffice download include a support contract?
No. The Document Foundation directs users to community help and recommends ecosystem partner offerings where organisations need contracted support.