Getting back into MS Access after 15 years

[ghh3rd]

I have been away from MS Access for about 15 years, last used Access 2000. I suppose that I used to be a 'power user', able to create apps for various departments easily, adding functionality with VBA, forms, reports, using SQL to populate combo boxes, and and utilizing front/back end structure. I'd like to purchase MS Access so I could get back up to speed, but wonder which version would be most desirable now.



Thanks for any insights.

Randy

[ranman256]

2016 is the most recent format compatible with everything fwd

[Micron]

According to your hiatus, any databases you might still have are from 2003 or earlier, or maybe as late as 2007. If you have any from version 97 you won't be able to open those at all with the newer/newest versions. Last one for that is 2007 I think. Since you can only have 1 version on a drive label AFAIK, best to consider that. Could also have 2 or more swappable disks or partitions with separate boot partitions or separate pc's and have the old and the new. I think 2019 is the latest version, but you could probably do well with anything 2010 and up. In fact, why not get back in with a cheaper used version and then upgrade if you find that you stick with it and need it? You should compare version features to see if there are any that you can't do without. IMO, 32 bit install is the way to go.

[isladogs]

I would also suggest purchasing anything from A2010 onwards though Office 365 may be the best 'value for money' as its on a subscription bases (monthly or annual).
The latest 'retail' version is in fact Access 2021

In fact, you can open A97 databases in A2010 but all later versions will only allow you to open A2000 or later databases

[Micron]

Why a subscription? Going on 4 years now for me and I've probably spent what I could have bought a license for (dunno but it's about $80 CDN per year with taxes). Been thinking of dropping it since after about 5 years I'd say there's no prospect of me being called back to work for anything Access related. The only thing I really use it for is helping out around here. Since this is a non paying gig, I'm contemplating dropping it altogether, or looking for a used version.

[isladogs]

The 'best' version for anyone will depend on their individual needs.
Last year I paid £40 GBP for an annual license for Office 365 Family which allows me to install it on up to 6 workstations simultaneously
For me that was an absolute bargain.

If you have no possible work related use for Access, then I would definitely stick with an older retail version e.g. 2010
If you also use other Office products such as Word, Excel & Outlook, then Office 365 MAY be a better bet financially

BUT
a) not everyone appreciates the monthly updates
b) 'free' web versions of Word/Excel/Outlook are available