Microsoft Power BI Version Comparison
This article applies to: Microsoft 365 Productivity Bundle
The free desktop version allows you to combine multiple data sources (both local and remote) into complex dashboards, to massage the data tables, and to publish snapshots of the data models for access by others.
The for-fee, web-based Pro version allows you to create simpler models from local data sources, and to assign group permissions to models created in the desktop version.
| Power BI Desktop | Power BI Free | Power BI Pro | |
| Description | Connect data and create reports and dashboards for personal use on Windows computers | Connect data and create reports and dashboards for personal use in web browser | Connect data and create reports and dashboards and collaborate with other Pro users |
| Cost | Free for everyone – Some features require additional license | Free for everyone | Permanent Staff and faculty can request Power BI Pro for free. Others, such as temporary employees or contractors, can purchase the license which does have a cost. |
| How to access | Free download from Microsoft | Access in a web browser | Download through Microsoft 365 after receiving license. See our Request Power BI Pro article. |
| Supported OS | Windows only | Windows and Mac, browser-based | Windows and Mac, browser-based |
| Support | Support for Power BI Desktop via Microsoft resources | Support Power BI (free) via Microsoft resources | Support for Power BI Pro primarily via Microsoft resources, with IT Service Desk “best effort” support |
| Sharing | None without additional license | None | Can publish and share content with other Pro users |
| Features | Connects to 70+ data sources – Export reports to PowerPoint, Excel, PDF, and CSV | ||
| Microsoft Feature Comparison | |||
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