WordPerfect vs. Word: What’s Right for You?

Corel WordPerfect: What is it?

Corel WordPerfect is a type of word-processing software. Its versatility lets users create letters, brochures, resumes, and many other document types. A similarity when discussing WordPerfect vs. Word is that both programs were developed in the 1980s. Like Microsoft Word, WordPerfect remains a long-standing pillar of the word processing software community. WordPerfect is typically chosen by academics, legal professionals, and others who require absolute precision in how they format and work with documents.

Why people choose WordPerfect:

• Reveal Codes for granular control over formatting
• Exports to ePub and other legal filing formats
• A library of specialized templates
• Built-in PDF functionality

Another advantage is WordPerfect’s stability regarding printing and generating legal documents. As precision is a must in the legal field, WordPerfect’s preserved formatting predictability is a major plus when drafting and sharing contracts or court filings.

Microsoft Word: What is it?

Chances are, with it being the world’s most popular word-processing program, you're more familiar with Microsoft Word than WordPerfect. Now a popular part of the subscription-based Microsoft 365 service or purchased by itself, Word offers seamless integration with trusted cloud services. It also offers a variety of templates.

However, when it comes down to Corel WordPerfect vs. Microsoft Word, the latter option is a better choice if you prefer something familiar and simple.

Why people choose Microsoft Word:

• Widely used in business and academic settings
• Exports to a wider overall range of formats
• Cloud-based access from multiple devices
• Real-time collaboration via OneDrive

Additionally, Microsoft Word includes powerful user accessibility tools, such as immersive readers and dictation features, making it a stronger choice for those requiring assistive technology. While WordPerfect offers more focused legal filing formats, Microsoft Word takes the edge in its broader compatibility with commonly used workplace services like Outlook, Teams, and SharePoint.

When comparing Corel WordPerfect vs. Microsoft Word, several distinctions stand out:

• Target Users: WordPerfect appeals more to legal professionals, authors, and those who need detailed control over formatting. Word is favored in general settings, such as drafting papers or blog posts. It’s also used more by general users, students, and business professionals.
• Interface: WordPerfect’s layout appeals to more experienced users, whereas Microsoft Word offers a slicker and more user-friendly interface.
• Cloud & Collaboration: While WordPerfect lacks cloud-based features, Microsoft Word takes the edge in this category with its integration with OneDrive and other cloud syncing and collaborative features.
• Operating Systems: Microsoft Word works on Windows and Mac devices. WordPerfect is a Windows-only program.
• Compatibility: WordPerfect supports many file types, including Microsoft Word files. It also supports certain legal file types that Word doesn’t. However, generally speaking, Microsoft Word is compatible with more file formats than Corel WordPerfect.

Note: WordPerfect offers perpetual licenses, while Microsoft Word is included in the subscription-based Microsoft 365 service or as part of the Office bundles.

What’s the biggest difference between WordPerfect and Word?

These two programs have a few main differences, including the user base and control over formatting. Microsoft Word is better for the average user. With its Reveal Codes and fine-tunable formatting, Corel WordPerfect is better for legal professionals.

Is WordPerfect compatible with Microsoft Word?

Yes. Corel WordPerfect can open and save documents in Word-based formats, including .DOC and .DOCX, allowing for interoperability between both programs.

Why do lawyers like WordPerfect?

Lawyers and law firms prefer WordPerfect due to its features focused on the legal community, including Reveal Codes for improved document precision and WordPerfect’s wealth of legal document templates. Additionally, WordPerfect files are exportable in more legal filing formats than Microsoft Word.

WordPerfect vs. Word? Which is the more affordable option?

That’s hard to say, as it depends on whether you prefer having a lifetime license or subscription-based access to your software. WordPerfect offers a one-time purchase, which can be more cost-effective from a long-term viewpoint. Microsoft Word is subscription-based, with the added benefits of cloud-based features. Fortunately, when comparing WordPerfect vs. Word, they’re both similarly priced.