LibreOffice and Apache OpenOffice are two independent office suites that share common roots. Although they offer similar features, there are noticeable differences between them.

Development and support

LibreOffice is developed by The Document Foundation, while OpenOffice is a project of the Apache Foundation. Both teams operate independently and have different approaches to support and updates.

In practice, this means that LibreOffice receives more frequent updates and new features. In contrast, the development of OpenOffice proceeds more slowly and less dynamically.

License

LibreOffice uses the LGPL (GNU Lesser General Public License). It gives users and developers greater freedom – including the ability to modify the code and create extensions.

OpenOffice operates under the Apache license. It is also open, but differs in terms and scope of legal possibilities.

File format support

Both suites support popular formats such as DOC, XLS, and PPT.
However, LibreOffice adapts more often to the latest standards, such as ODT, ODS, and ODP.
As a result, it provides better compatibility with modern office software.

User interface

Although both suites look similar, LibreOffice introduces more modern solutions.
Many users consider its interface to be more intuitive and clear.
LibreOffice also allows greater customization, which improves work comfort.

Compatibility and choice

LibreOffice and OpenOffice are compatible with each other. Documents created in one suite can be opened in the other without any problems.

The final choice depends on the individual needs of the user. Currently, many people prefer LibreOffice – mainly due to active development, new features, and community support.