When it comes to the Mac, I recommend using iWorks over Office the majority of the time, but for you Mac-aficionados stuck in the Windows world, you’ll be happy to know that Office for Mac 2011 is coming at the end of October 2010. And Microsoft has a special upgrade offer for those who buy Office for Mac 2008 now. Here’s the run down of the editions and price tags for Microsoft’s latest Mac productivity offering…

If you want Office for Mac ASAP but want to stay current, just go out and buy Office for Mac 2008. Microsoft is offering a free upgrade plan through the Mac Technology Guarantee Program for “qualifying” customers. All you need is a product key and a simple online registration. Just make sure that the purchase happens between Aug. 1, 2010, and Nov. 30, 2010, at Microsoft (online) or an authorized reseller. You’ll have until the year is up to get your free upgrade.

Office for Mac 2011 will come in two flavors, each with their own two variants:

Microsoft says that if you’re a “Home And Student” user who needs Outlook, you can upgrade online, but Microsoft doesn’t say how much that step will cost. Additionally, Microsoft is offering a “Mac Academic 2011” which includes everything in the Home and Student offering, but merely at a $99 price point a authorized academic stores. As expected, it includes one install.

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