Latest Version:
SpeedFan is a free CPU cooling software for Windows. Using this software, you can manually control the CPU fan speed when your CPU is running hot. To control the CPU fan speed, it provides an advanced PMW function that lets you increase or decrease the fan speed by sending the pulse modulation signals. What follows is a list of thirty pieces of software that are the cream of the crop of open source software for Windows. Not only is every piece of it free, almost all of them directly replace expensive software packages. Now, if only there were an open version of The Sims 2, I might go the whole way and switch to Linux.
Cool Edit Pro is a music workstation Windows app with the capability to work with several tracks at the same time. It has support for non-destructive processing and surround sound mixing.
It can mix up to 64 tracks using just about any sound card. Cool Edit Pro allows you to record, play, convert and edit files up to 2 gigabytes in size and in more than 25 formats, and its audio effects include reverb, multitap delay, 3D echo, equalizers, chorus, flanger, distortion, and more. In the demo version there is a time limit of 30 minutes per session, save and clipboard functions are disabled, and RealAudio is not supported. The program is a quite convenient bit of programming, committed to all client types keen on multi-track editing, recording music and reestablish all accounts. It is imperative to remember that this device has been stopped, and along these lines will never again get refreshes. Regardless, you can look at the new form of this utility, called Adobe Audition CC. Antivirus and anti-malware test: for safety reasons you should can also download Cool Edit Pro from FileHorse.com since they have all the files scanned agains viruses and malware. Also you may find there recent screenshots of this software as well as YouTube video. After file download is complete you will have .exe or .msi installation file or .zip archive that you may have to unpack first. To start the installation double click on the executable file and follow the setup wizard. Note: Adobe Systems Incorporated acquired the technology assets of Syntrillium Software in May 2003. On August 18th, 2003 Adobe released a rebranded version of the editing program as Adobe Audition software. This is the ORIGINAL Syntrillium's CoolEdit Pro - Demo version.
The best PC software won’t bog your Windows computer down. It’s clean, free, and gets the job done.
Consult this list for ideas and discover apps you didn’t know existed. We’re continuously seeking out the best Windows software, and places to download them, for all your needs. Most applications recommended here are free and you can quickly find what you need by browsing the listed programs by category.
Note that some installers pack bloatware, useless adware that’s pre-selected to install. It’s the bane of freeware. Thus, Unchecky should be the very first app from this list you should install because it can help you catch checkboxes that commit you to downloading and installing bundled apps you don’t need.
Jump Ahead:Antivirus | Audio Tools | Backup and Sync | Browsers | Communication Tools | Defragging | Download Tools | Email Clients | Files Management | File Recovery | File Storage | Image Editors | Image Viewers | Maintenance | Miscellaneous | Optical and Disc Image Tools | PDF Tools | Productivity | Reading | Text Editing | Uninstallers | Video Tools
Antivirus, Malware, and Firewalls
Antivirus software is a cornerstone in protecting your computer from external attacks. While it shouldn’t be your only protection, it’s important that you install a single antivirus application only! Installing several antivirus tools on the same computer can potentially cause issues, to the point where they lock your computer up.
Please see our dedicated guide to a full list of antivirus and security toolsThe Best Computer Security and Antivirus ToolsThe Best Computer Security and Antivirus ToolsConcerned about malware, ransomware, and viruses? Here are the best security and antivirus apps you need to stay protected.Read More you should install to protect your Windows computer.
Audio Toolsfoobar2000
Advanced cross-platform audio player with customizable user interface. Supports gapless playback, can rip audio CDs and transcode supported audio formats, and is best used with custom keyboard shortcuts.
Download:foobar2000 (Free)
MediaMonkey
If you have a large media collection, MediaMonkey can help you keep it organized. It manages video and audio files, playlists, and can fill in missing track information automatically.
The Gold version gets you bit-perfect rips, support for customized collections, on-the-fly audio/video conversions, advanced searches and auto-playlists, unlimited MP3 encoding, a sleep timer, and more.
Download:MediaMonkey (Free)
Download:MediaMonkey Gold (From $24.95) MusicBee
MusicBee is the music manager that turns your computer into a music jukebox. It features auto-tagging, multiple features to optimize the sound quality, can sync your music collection across devices, and even comes in a portable version.
Download:MusicBee (Free)
Spotify
Streaming music service complete with Facebook integration, iDevice management, and playing music to remote speakers.
Download:Spotify (Free)
Download:Spotify Premium (From 9.99 per month, free trial)
Other notable applications in this category:
Backup and Sync
When your computer came with Windows 8 or 10, you don’t need a fleet of backup tools. The latest versions of Windows come with a built-in Time Machine backup called File History. And with OneDrive, you can sync files and folders across devices. It never hurts to have alternative backup solutions though.
Macrium Reflect Free
Free for non-commercial and home use, this backup tool lets you save your disk clone or image to local and network-based storage media. To speed up regular backups and reduce storage space, you can use differential images. Use backup templates to set up scheduled backups without missing key files.
The Home version also packs incremental backups to save storage space, rapid delta cloning and restore for fast disk recovery, file and folder backup, backup encryption, ransomware protection, and more.
Download:Macrium Reflect (Free)
Download:Macrium Reflect Home ($69.95 for one license; 30-day free trial) FreeFileSync
Open source folder comparison and synchronization tool optimized for ease of use. Also available for Linux and Mac and as portable Windows app. We thought it was a better sync tool than Microsoft’s SyncToy, which has since been discontinued. Be sure to deselect bloatware during setup.
Download:FreeFileSync (Free)
If nags are a no-go, try the following alternatives:
EaseUS Todo Backup
This is a free backup solution that includes a disaster recovery option. The tool can back up files and folders, create an image of the entire operating system, or clone disks to migrate data. Supports comprehensive full backup, incremental backup, and differential backup.
Download:EaseUS Todo Backup (Free)
Alternatives:
More apps in this category:
BrowsersChrome
Google’s minimal design browser that went from zero to hero in record time. Best browser if you’re already sold on Google products. Receives frequent automatic updates and supports extensions from the Google Play store. See our Guide to Google ChromeThe Easy Guide to Google ChromeThe Easy Guide to Google ChromeThis Chrome user guide shows everything you need to know about the Google Chrome browser. It covers the basics of using Google Chrome that is important for any beginner.Read More to find out about custom settings and hacks.
Download:Chrome (Free)
Firefox
With more than 6,000 add-ons, Firefox remains the most customizable browser on the market, offering its users more freedom than Chrome ever will. Should you switch from Chrome to Firefox7 Reasons to Switch From Google Chrome to Mozilla Firefox7 Reasons to Switch From Google Chrome to Mozilla FirefoxGoogle Chrome is the most popular web browser, but is it right for you? Here's why you might prefer Mozilla Firefox.Read More too? The latest Firefox Quantum is faster, more lightweight, and more private than Chrome.
Download:Firefox (Free)
Opera
Opera has pioneered new features like tabs or the speed dial. It’s working hard to remain the fastest browser on the market. Its latest features are a built-in free VPN and battery saver. Moreover, it supports Chrome extensions. Is it finally time to drop Chrome for OperaI Switched From Chrome to Opera and I’m Never Going BackI Switched From Chrome to Opera and I’m Never Going BackAny browser works. There's only one reason to pick one over another: it's more in line with how you like to browse the web. And you might prefer Opera, too.Read More?
Download:Opera (Free)
Other notable browsers:
Which browser is best for you?Which Browser Is Best? Edge vs. Chrome vs. Opera vs. FirefoxWhich Browser Is Best? Edge vs. Chrome vs. Opera vs. FirefoxThe browser you're using right now may not be the best one for you. The browser arena changes so frequently that your conclusions from comparisons made last year may be completely wrong this year.Read More
Communication ToolsSkype
Microsoft’s aging cross-platform VoIP application remains a popular tool to stay in touch with friends and family. Skype offers reasonable rates for calling mobiles and landlines and attractive subscription packages. In an effort to compete with Google Hangouts, Skype now supports group video chats for non-premium accounts.
Note that Microsoft retired the classic (desktop) Skype in November 2018. When you download Skype now, it will be the Windows 10 app.
Download:Skype (Free)
If Skype doesn’t cut it anymore, have a look at these Skype alternatives6 Free Skype Alternatives for the Windows Desktop6 Free Skype Alternatives for the Windows DesktopHave you had enough of Skype? This group and video chat messenger has tough competition. Here are six free services that can replace Skype for you.Read More.
Pidgin
Easy-to-use, open source, cross-platform, multi-protocol chat client. Supports all major chat programs, as well as third-party developed plugins.
Download:Pidgin (Free)
TeamSpeak
Built for gamers, TeamSpeak is a popular VoIP solution that works across a range of desktop and mobile devices.
Download:TeamSpeak (Free)
Discord
Tired of Skype, don’t want to pay for TeamSpeak, but need a tool to communicate with your buddies? Give Discord a try. This voice and text chat for gamers is free, secure, and works on your phone, browser, or desktop computer.
Download:Discord (Free)
Similar tools:
Defragging
Fragmented data can slow your computer down. Defragging restores order on your hard drive. Note that defragging a solid state drive (SSD) can reduce its lifespan.
Piriform Defraggler
From the makers of CCleaner comes Defraggler, a portable defragging tool, sporting solid features, paired with a pleasing and intuitive interface. You can benchmark your drive, view a file list and drive map, as well as examine drive health.
Download:Defraggler (Free)
Download:Defraggler Professional ($19.95)
An alternative to Defraggler is IObit Smart Defrag, which is easy to set up and runs in the background.
Download ToolsqBittorrent
qBittorrent is a free and open source BitTorrent client. It’s generally considered the best uTorrent alternativeThe Best Torrent Clients to Replace uTorrentThe Best Torrent Clients to Replace uTorrentAre you still using uTorrent? It's time to switch to a cleaner and more trustworthy BitTorrent client. Here are the best uTorrent alternatives for Windows, Mac, and Linux.Read More. Unlike the client it was designed to replace, it’s free from bloatware and ads.
Download:qBittorrent (Free)
Transmission
An open source and cross-platform BitTorrent client built by volunteers. It’s full-featured, doesn’t bundle adware, and won’t track its users. As a result, it’s lightweight and much more enjoyable to use.
Download:Transmission (Free)
JDownloader
Free and open source download manager. Allows you to start, stop, and pause your downloads, set bandwidth limitations, and auto-extract archives. Your antivirus may detect it as a threat, but rest assured it’s a false positive. Potentially comes packed with bloatware.
Download:JDownloader (Free)
Other alternatives:
Email ClientsThunderbird
Mozilla’s trusty and easy to use email client. Supports tabs, add-ons10 Must-Have Thunderbird Addons (+ 25 More)10 Must-Have Thunderbird Addons (+ 25 More)Thunderbird lives on. This desktop email client thrives because of its many customization options. These must-have Thunderbird addons will help you make the most of it.Read More, and is also available as a portable app. And in 2019, Mozilla announced that it will pick up developing Thunderbird again.
Download:Thunderbird (Free)
High on our list of free desktop email clientsThe 5 Best Free Email Clients for Your Desktop PCThe 5 Best Free Email Clients for Your Desktop PCWant the best free email client? We've compiled the best email software for Windows, Mac, and Linux that won't cost you a dime.Read More are also Mailspring and Mailbird. The best free alternative to Microsoft Outlook3 Best Free Alternatives to Microsoft Outlook3 Best Free Alternatives to Microsoft OutlookDo you find Outlook too expensive or too overwhelming or do you just not want to use a Microsoft product? You have options! We have compiled the best alternatives to Microsoft Outlook.Read More, however, is EssentialPIM.
File ManagementTeraCopy
Copy and move files at maximum speed and pause and resume file transfers. When an issue comes up, TeraCopy won’t terminate a transfer like Windows Explorer does. Instead, it will show you the failed files after the transfer was completed.
Download:TeraCopy (Free)
EaseUS Partition Master
EaseUS Partition Master is an advanced alternative to the built-in Windows partition manager. It supports merging of adjacent partitions, copying partitions and disks, upgrading system disk to a bigger drive, and it can recover deleted or lost partitions from unallocated space.
The Pro version lets you manage dynamic volumes, migrate your operating system to SSD/HDD without reinstallation, supports Windows Storage Spaces, change between MBR and GPT without losing data, and more.
Download:EaseUS Partition Master (Free)
Download:EaseUS Partition Master Pro ($39.95, free trial) FileZilla
A free, lightweight and robust FTP client for transferring files to and from the web.
Download:FileZilla (Free)
MultiCommander
A feature-packed alternative file manager to Windows File Explorer that uses a dual-panel layout. If all you desire is a file explorer that supports tabs, we recommend Explorer++. For more options, see this article on alternative file explorersFun & Useful Alternatives For Windows ExplorerFun & Useful Alternatives For Windows ExplorerWindows Explorer – now known as File Explorer in Windows 8 – is a mainstay of the Windows desktop. No matter how many alternative programs Windows tweakers use, most people seem to stick with the..Read More.
Download:MultiCommander (Free)
Additional tools in this section:
File Recovery
Did you ever wish you could turn back time to recover your lost files? With the following tools, you need neither a DeLorean nor a flux capacitor, a little luck will do. Just remember not to write any data to the disk you wish to recover files from.
Recuva
The Recuva wizard can take you through the process of recovering files or you can manually pick drives to be scanned. Designed for intuitive use by the makers of CCleaner. The professional version also includes virtual hard drive support, automatic updates, and premium customer support.
Download:Recuva (Free)
Download:Recuva Professional ($19.95) TestDisk
This open source tool is considered one of the best applications for recovering lost partitions or making non-booting disks bootable again. It’s operated through a command prompt window but comes with thorough documentation, which will allow even novices to compile information for recovery by a professional.
Download:TestDisk (Free)
To recover photos from digital camera memory, try TestDisk’s open source companion PhotoRec, which can recover a wide range of accidentally deleted files, including photos.
More recommendable applications in this category:
File Storage
You can never have enough storage space. The advantage of cloud storage is that you can access it from anywhere and as long as the service and your internet are running, you have nothing to worry about. The following are the most popular and reliable options available.
Dropbox
Dropbox is available across platforms and allows you to sync folders and files to the web and other devices connected to your Dropbox account. Great tool to auto-upload photos from your mobile phone. It’s being challenged by Microsoft OneDrive, which offers more storage capacity and potentially better Windows integration.
Download:Dropbox (Free)
Google Drive
The evolution of Google Docs keeps your documents synced between the cloud and your PC.
Download:Google Drive (Free)
OneDrive
Microsoft’s cloud storage solution comes with (now only) 5 GB of space for storing documents and images.
Download:OneDrive (Free)
Other tools in this section:
Image EditorsGIMP
Advanced open-source and cross-platform image editor, often touted as free Photoshop alternative.
Download:GIMP (Free)
Paint.NET
Free image editing tool with an intuitive interface for beginners and comprehensive features for intermediate users. Supports layers, unlimited undo, special effects, power tools, plugins, and when you’re stuck you can rely on a selection of tutorials and an active online community.
Download:Paint.NET (Free)
Potential alternatives to GIMP and Paint.NET, with a focus on photo editing:
We also recommend the following image editors:
GifCam
A simple tool to create animated GIFs. Use the app like a camera to record a series of image frames, which you can then edit, before turning them into a GIF.
Download:GifCam (Free)
Blender
The free open source 3D creation suite supports everything from modeling and animation to video editing and game creation. It has long been the gold standard of 3D imaging tools. Get over its steep learning curve with these Blender tutorialsGetting Started with Blender: 7 Fantastic Tutorials for NewbiesGetting Started with Blender: 7 Fantastic Tutorials for Newbies3D modeling is an excellent way to exercise creativity while keeping in touch with your technical side. Here are some awesome free tutorials.Read More.
Download:Blender (Free)
Image ViewersFastStone Image Viewer
All in one image browser, converter, and editor that has never let us down. Supports all major graphics formats, including RAW and other digital camera formats. The makers of FastStone Image Viewer also offer a Capture tool and a Photo Resizer.
Download:FastStone Image Viewer (Free)
IrfanView
Simplistic on the surface, hides advanced features under the hub, yet intuitive and easy to use. Classic image viewer, which you can also use for simple edits or batch-processing files. Now available in 32-bit and 64-bit versions. An extensive plugins library is available separately.
Download:IrfanView (Free)
XnView
Cross-platform image viewer, organizer, and converter that comes with a huge selection of filters and supports 500 different formats.
Download:XnView (Free)
Maintenance
Third-party applications can impact your system’s performance. They can accumulate temporary files and huge caches, launch with Windows and consume resources in the background while getting outdated over time.
PC maintenance tools can help you keep your computer running smoothly on the software side or analyze issues with your hardware. In addition, they can maintain your privacy by removing traces of your online or offline activities from your PC.
CCleaner
CCleaner is the PC maintenance gold standard. The award-winning optimization tool scores high points all around. Clean junk files, make your browsing safer, or speed up your startup times. If you absolutely have to use its registry cleaner, be sure to back up the registry3 Tools To Monitor & Examine The Windows Registry3 Tools To Monitor & Examine The Windows RegistryThe Windows registry is one of the most poorly understood parts of the Windows operating system. We show you tools that can simplify the registry and help you identify issues.Read More first.
The Pro version gets you real-time monitoring, scheduled cleaning, automatic updates, and premium support.
Download:CCleaner (Free)
Download:CCleaner Pro ($19.95, free trial) BleachBit
BleachBit is a free and open source tool to clean unnecessary files from your system. And you’re in control! Scroll through the sidebar and check file types for individual browsers (e.g. cache or cookies), system files, and other software that clutters up your hard drive. When you’re ready, click Clean and free up disk space.
Download:BleachBit (Free)
Glary Utilities
Like CCleaner, Glary Utilities offers comprehensive PC cleaning utility. The free version includes over 20 tools that can fix PC issues and improve performance with one click.
Download:Glary Utilities (Free)
Download:Glary Utilities Pro ($19.97) PrivaZer
PrivaZer can scan any drive connected to your computer for traces you left while using your computer, including internet cache or cookies, residual deleted files, or useless files. Essentially, it’s a cleanup utility with a focus on your privacy. Available as a desktop and portable application.
Download:PrivaZer (Free)
Similar application:
Speccy
An advanced system information tool for your PC, made by the creators of CCleaner. The free version provides you with an overview of all your system internals, including your operating system, CPU, RAM, motherboard, graphics, storage, optical drives, audio, peripherals, and your network.
The Pro version adds automatic updates and premium support.
Download:Speccy (Free)
Download:Speccy Pro ($19.95)
Similar tools:
SUMo
Software Update Monitor, short SUMo, monitors your installed software for available updates and downloads them for you. Be sure to deselect the default homepage setting during installation and click Cancel when prompted for it again! You can also quit the survey.
Download:SUMo (Free)
In addition to the tools above, we also recommend the following:
Miscellaneousf.lux
This utility helps you prevent eye strain and sleep better by adapting your screen brightness and color saturation to ambient lighting. It also supports scheduling, as shown above.
Download:f.lux (Free)
Classic Shell
Classic Shell is more than a Start Menu replacement. Besides adding a customizable Start button and menu, it features tool- and status bars for Windows / File Explorer and Internet Explorer. A great productivity tool to make Windows better6 Windows 10 Offline Apps to Stay Productive and Entertained6 Windows 10 Offline Apps to Stay Productive and EntertainedMost of us are online around the clock. But which apps should you turn to when you find yourself 'off the grid'? We show you six Windows 10 offline apps you should keep stocked.Read More.
Download:Classic Shell (Free)
VirtualBox
VirtualBox is the easiest way to create a virtual machineWhat Is a Virtual Machine? Everything You Need to KnowWhat Is a Virtual Machine? Everything You Need to KnowVirtual machines allow you to run other operating systems on your current computer. Here's what you should know about them.Read More within Windows. You can install any operating system on your virtual machine and run it like it was a regular program. We have used VirtualBox to run Windows 10 on Windows, LinuxHow To Try Windows 10 If You're Running LinuxHow To Try Windows 10 If You're Running LinuxLove Linux, but still depend on Windows occasionally? The Windows 10 TP is a stable test system. We show you how you can try Windows for free as a dual boot or on a virtual..Read More, and MacHow To Try Windows 10 On Your Mac Free & EasyHow To Try Windows 10 On Your Mac Free & EasyEven as a Mac user you might need Windows from time to time, be it at work or a public computer. Here's a chance to familiarize yourself with Windows 10 for free.Read More. Refer to our VirtualBox guideHow to Use VirtualBox: User's GuideHow to Use VirtualBox: User's GuideWith VirtualBox you can easily install and test multiple operating systems. We'll show you how to set up Windows 10 and Ubuntu Linux as a virtual machine.Read More for more information.
Download:VirtualBox (Free)
Alternatively, you can use VMWarePlayer to set up a virtual machineRun Multiple Operating Systems At Once With VMware PlayerRun Multiple Operating Systems At Once With VMware PlayerWe’ve lavished attention on VirtualBox here at MakeUseOf, and for good reason. However, VirtualBox isn’t your only option for creating and using free virtual machines. VMware Player, VMware’s free product, is every bit as good..Read More on your computer.
TeamViewer
TeamViewer allows you to remote-connect to another computer over the internet, either to provide technical assistance or to access files and programs. By far the best free remote desktop connection manager you can get. It’s cross-platform and easy to set up, too.
Download:TeamViewer (Free)
Hiren’s BootCD
Hiren’s BootCD is one of those apps every techie should carry around. Burn the ISO to a CD or create a bootable USB with Rufus and you’ll always have a digital toolboxHiren's Boot CD: The All-In-One Boot CD for Every NeedHiren's Boot CD: The All-In-One Boot CD for Every NeedHiren's Boot CD is a Windows rescue utility that boots from CD or USB. It's a must-have for your PC repair kit for when Windows won't boot.Read More with you to fix some common computer issues. Comes with recovery tools, can reset your Windows password, test hardware, compile hardware information, and much more.
Download:Hiren’s BootCD (Free)
KeePass
Portable and open source password manager with plugin support. Helps you protect your online accounts with strong passwords. The app stores passwords on your computer or USB drive. Cloud-based alternatives to KeePass include Dashlane and SafeInCloud Password Manager.
Download:KeePass (Free)
Eraser
You may know that deleting a file in Windows doesn’t actually remove it. That’s why it’s possible to recover deleted filesWhy It Is Impossible To Recover Data From An Overwritten Hard Drive [Technology Explained]Why It Is Impossible To Recover Data From An Overwritten Hard Drive [Technology Explained]Recovering deleted data from a hard drive is generally possible because typically the actual data is not deleted. Instead, information about where the data is stored is removed. In this article I will explain how..Read More. Eraser is an open source utility and portable app that permanently deletes files5 Tools To Permanently Delete Sensitive Data From Your Hard Drive [Windows]5 Tools To Permanently Delete Sensitive Data From Your Hard Drive [Windows]In a recent article I explained why it is impossible to recover data from a hard drive after overwriting it. In that post I mentioned that simply deleting files or formatting your hard drive typically..Read More by overwriting them with random patterns. Best used with hard disk drives since erasing data from a solid state driveHow to Securely Erase Your SSD Without Destroying ItHow to Securely Erase Your SSD Without Destroying ItSSDs can only be written to a limited number of times. This is a challenge, particularly for erasing data and doing so securely, which can vastly reduce performance and shorten SSD drive life.Read More can cause damage and other issues.
Download:Eraser (Free)
Optical and Disc Image ToolsCDBurnerXP
Feature rich, yet easy to use burning tool for CDs, DVDs, HD-DVDs, Blu-Rays, ISOs, and bootable discs.
Download:CDBurnerXP (Free)
Alternatives:
bitRipper
Simple tool to convert DVDs to AVI or MPEG for backing up your DVDs on your local drive. Includes its own codecs and can re-use codecs installed on your system. If your DVDs turn out too big to be stored locally, try DVDShrink to reduce their size.
Download:bitRipper (Free)
CDex
CDex rips audio CDs to MP3 and other formats. Supports a range of encoders and the source code is open.
Download:CDex (Free)
WinCDEmu
After the demise of Virtual CloneDrive, WinCDEmu has become your best solution to emulate CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. The open-source tool supports ISO, CUE, NRG, MDS/MDF, CCD, and IMG images and can create them via a context menu in Windows Explorer. You can create an unlimited number of virtual drives to mount image files and play them virtually.
By virtualizing your discs, you’ll never have to swap discs again. The tool is also ideal if you want to run optical discs on a Windows device that lacks the matching drive.
Download:WinCDEmu (Free)
PDF ToolsSumatra PDF
This is the most lightweight PDF reader. It supports tabs and is packed with keyboard shortcuts. It’s also open source and available as a portable app. Unlike other free PDF readers, it doesn’t feature any editing tools.
Download:Sumatra PDF (Free)
Read our article on the best PDF readers for WindowsThe 6 Best PDF Readers for Windows in 2019The 6 Best PDF Readers for Windows in 2019The best PDF readers don't cost any money. Read our roundup of feature-rich PDF viewers that out perform even Adobe Reader.Read More for more solutions.
PDFsamFree Windows Software From Microsoft
PDFsam, aka PDF Split and Merge, is a small tool to split, merge, and rotate PDF files any way you like. You can drag-and-drop files onto the tool and mass-edit files. The interface is basic, but the features are advanced.
Download:PDFsam (Free)
Alternatives:
ProductivityDexpot
Powerful virtual desktop manager. Expand your screen with virtual desktops and use them to separate open windows based on tasks. A similar tool is VirtuaWin, a lean desktop manager with a minimalist set of features.
Download:Dexpot (Free)
Ditto
Ditto is a clipboard managerThe 3 Best Clipboard Managers For WindowsThe 3 Best Clipboard Managers For WindowsThe Windows clipboard can only hold one single item, so whenever you copy something else, the previous item will be discarded. If you didn't mean to lose what you had copied earlier that can be..Read More that allows you to keep a record of your Windows clipboard backed up for later use or sync clipboards across multiple computers. Also available as a portable app. Similar to ClipX and many other clipboard managers5 Tips to Manage Your Windows Clipboard Like a Pro5 Tips to Manage Your Windows Clipboard Like a ProBetter known as Copy & Paste, a tool for students to lift passages from Wikipedia, the Clipboard can save you loads of typing time. We'll show you how to use it like a pro.Read More.
Download:Ditto (Free)
Launchy
A cross-platform utility that employs keyboard shortcuts to launch programs and files independently of Windows File Explorer or the Start Menu. If you’re looking for a Start Menu alternativeThe 7 Best Windows Start Menu Alternatives and ReplacementsThe 7 Best Windows Start Menu Alternatives and ReplacementsThe Windows 10 Start Menu is a great improvement over Windows 8, but you can make it even better. Here are the best tools for working around or replacing the Start Menu.Read More, you might also appreciate SyMenu, a portable menu launcher that allows you to organize your applications quickly and easily.
Download:Launchy (Free)
Other notable applications in this section:
ReadingKindle
Amazon’s Kindle app lets you read and manage your ebook collection from your Windows PC.
Download:Kindle (Free)
Alternative:
calibre
Free and open-source ebook manager. Comes with a library to manage your ebooks, can convert ebooks from one format to another, syncs to your reader devices, downloads news from the web and converts it into ebook format, functions as an ebook viewer, and can edit ebooks.
Download:calibre (Free)
Text EditingLibreOffice
You don’t have to pay for Microsoft OfficeSave on Microsoft Office! Get Cheap or Free Office ProductsSave on Microsoft Office! Get Cheap or Free Office ProductsReluctant to spend a few hundred bucks on a glorified word processor? You can get Microsoft Office for cheap and alternatives for free. You've got many options and we offer a summary.Read More to get a professional productivity and office suite, one which is open source and community-supported on top of that.
Download:LibreOffice (Free)
WPS Office Free
Free cross-platform Microsoft Office alternative with a tabbed interface and more reliable support for collaborative features, such as tracking changes and comments. Self-absorbed ads can be a little annoying but are easily ignored.
The Premium version is ad-free and lets you split and merge PDF to Word. The Professional version is a lifetime license with three years of services included.
Microsoft Windows Software
Download:WPS Office (Free)
Download:WPS Office Premium (From $44.99 per year) Download:WPS Office Professional ($79.99 lifetime) Notepad++
A Notepad alternative with tabs and advanced features, useful especially for coders.
Download:Notepad++ (Free)
UninstallersRevo Uninstaller
Probably the most popular tool in this category. Easy to use and thorough, even comes with a hunter mode that will track down and eliminate programs based on icons or shortcuts on your screen.
Cool Windows Software Torrent
The pro version supports forced uninstall, bulk uninstall, extended scanning for leftover files, real-time change monitoring with log files, multi-level backup system, print and export a list of installed programs, and lots more.
Download:Revo Uninstaller (Free)
Download:Revo Uninstaller Pro ($24.95) Download:Revo Uninstaller Pro Portable ($29.95) IObit Uninstaller
IObit’s Uninstaller sorts all your programs into categories that make it easier to find applications you installed recently, software that takes up a lot of space, or tools you barely ever use. This utility also allows you to quickly get rid of browser toolbars and plugins, and Windows apps.
The Pro version can delete bundled programs and plug-ins, uninstall malicious browser extensions, it features adware removal, 1-click updates for installed programs, free technical support, and more.
Download:IObit Uninstaller (Free)
Download:IObit Uninstaller Pro ($19.99)
Other tools in this category:
Video ToolsVLC Media Player
Free and cross-platform video player that can play almost any video file. Supports DVDs, CDs, VCDs, and a selection of streaming protocols, including YouTube playlistsHow to Watch Entire YouTube Playlists in VLCHow to Watch Entire YouTube Playlists in VLCDo you love YouTube playlists, but wish you could watch them outside your browser? You can use VLC for the job, thanks to a simple extension. Here’s how.Read More. It can also rip and transcode videos or record video from your webcam.
Download:VLC Media Player (Free)
Cool Free Software
Alternatives:
HandBrake
Open source, cross-platform, media converter that can convert video files between many different formats.
Download:HandBrake (Free)
Alternatives to HandBrake:
Cool Windows Software Windows 7
MakeMKV
A cross-platform video transcoder that can read DVDs and Blu-Rays and convertThe 11 Best Tools for Ripping DVDs and Blu-rays to Your ComputerThe 11 Best Tools for Ripping DVDs and Blu-rays to Your ComputerHere are the best tools for ripping DVDs and Blu-rays so you can digitize all of your media without any hassle.Read More them into free formats. The Blu-Ray feature is a free trial.
Download:MakeMKV (Free)
CamStudio
A high-quality and open-source freeware screen capture utility with support for lossless video output. Perfect for creating screencasts or video tutorials.
Download:CamStudio (Free)
KODI
Formerly known as XBMC, KODI is a media center package for your Home Theater PC (HTPC). It can stream live TVHow to Watch Live TV on KodiHow to Watch Live TV on KodiCutting the cord can mean losing access to live television. However, there are a number of ways to watch live TV on Kodi.Read More, allowing you to cut the cordCut That Cord! How to Ditch CableCut That Cord! How to Ditch CableIf you've read about the cord-cutting phenomenon but aren't sure where to start, this is a guide to cutting the cord and ditching cable TV for good..Read More on pricey cable TV services.
Download:KODI (Free)
An alternative to KODI is Plex, a media center based on XBMCYour Guide To Plex - The Awesome Media CenterYour Guide To Plex - The Awesome Media CenterIf you have a lot of locally-saved movies and TV shows, you need to install Plex. And this is the only guide to getting started with Plex you'll ever need to read.Read More and originally designed for the Mac. It now also supports movie trailers.
Best Windows PC Software for All Needs
Have you tested any of the applications above or have we missed your favorite software? Let us know! We will improve the list based on our tests and your input. And if you appreciate this list, please share it with your friends and family!
Do you feel spoiled by choice? Start here with the essential applications you must installNew PC? 15 Must-Have Windows Applications You Should Install FirstNew PC? 15 Must-Have Windows Applications You Should Install FirstGot a new computer or just reinstalled Windows? These essential apps are must-have software for Windows 10, no matter what!Read More on your new Windows PC.
Explore more about: Best Of, Longform List, Windows Apps.
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