Microsoft Visio Professional 2019 and Visio Professional 2021 are both desktop versions of Microsoft’s diagramming and vector graphics software, but they differ in terms of features, compatibility, updates, and integration with newer technologies. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between Visio Professional 2019 and Visio Professional 2021 :
✅ 1. Release Dates
- Visio Professional 2019 : Released in October 2018.
- Visio Professional 2021 : Released in October 2021.
✅ 2. Supported Operating Systems
- Visio 2019 :
- Windows 10 (all editions except S Mode)
- Windows Server 2016 or later
- Visio 2021 :
- Windows 10 (all editions except S Mode) — minimum version may be higher
- Windows 11 supported natively
- Note: Both versions require a 64-bit OS for optimal performance.
✅ 3. User Interface and Design
- Visio 2021 includes updated Fluent Design elements and modernized UI components that align more closely with Microsoft 365 apps.
- Improved dark mode support in Visio 2021.
- Minor usability improvements such as better touchpad/pen input handling.
✅ 4. Feature Updates
While both versions are standalone perpetual licenses, Visio 2021 introduces some new features and enhancements:
New Features in Visio 2021:
- New diagram templates and shapes , especially for cloud services (e.g., Azure, AWS, Google Cloud).
- Enhanced data linking capabilities to external sources like Excel tables.
- Improved integration with Microsoft 365 services , including OneDrive and SharePoint file handling.
- Better SVG export support and image handling.
- Enhanced Accessibility Checker tools.
- Support for modern file formats and improved PDF export options.
✅ 5. Security & Performance
- Visio 2021 benefits from newer security protocols and patches.
- It supports more recent file format protections and network communication standards.
- Improved performance when working with large diagrams and complex stencils.
✅ 6. Compatibility
- Visio 2021 has better backward compatibility and smoother interaction with other Office 2021 apps.
- Both versions can open files created in older versions of Visio, but newer files may not open properly in older versions unless compatibility packs are used.
- Both versions are available via one-time purchase (perpetual license) .
- Neither includes automatic feature updates after release (unlike Microsoft 365 subscriptions).
- No cloud storage included by default , though you can use OneDrive or SharePoint manually.
✅ 8. Language and Localization
- Visio 2021 offers updated language packs and better localization support for newer markets and languages compared to 2019.
✅ 9. Collaboration Features
- Both versions are primarily desktop-only and lack real-time co-authoring features found in Microsoft 365 apps.
- However, Visio 2021 may offer slightly improved support for saving to and sharing via cloud locations like OneDrive or SharePoint.
✅ 10. End of Support
- Visio 2019 will reach end of extended support in October 2029 .
- Visio 2021 will reach end of extended support in October 2032 .
This longer support window means Visio 2021 users will receive security updates and patches for a longer period.
Summary Table
| Feature | Visio 2019 | Visio 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2018 | 2021 |
| OS Support | Windows 10, Server 2016+ | Windows 10 (newer builds), Windows 11 |
| UI / Design | Standard Office 2019 look | Updated Fluent UI, better Dark Mode |
| New Diagrams / Shapes | Standard set | More modern templates (cloud, AI, etc.) |
| File Compatibility | Good | Broader and improved |
| Data Linking | Basic | Enhanced |
| Export Options | PDF, PNG, SVG | Improved SVG, PDF, image export |
| Accessibility Tools | Basic | Improved |
| Co-Authoring | Not supported | Still not supported (no real-time) |
| End of Support | Oct 2029 | Oct 2032 |
| Price (at launch) | Similar to 2021 | Slightly higher due to newer |
🔍 Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Visio 2019 if:
- You want a cheaper option (especially if on sale).
- Your system is older or doesn’t support Windows 11.
- You don’t need the latest features or long-term support.
- Choose Visio 2021 if:
- You’re using a newer PC with Windows 11.
- You want better security, future-proofing, and longer support.
- You need access to updated templates, enhanced export options, and better integration with modern workflows.
