9 free software copycats that work better than the real expensive programs

[Jilly_in_VA]

There are more features and tricks hiding in your Mac or PC than most people will ever know. You can do even more if you know the right software to download.

If you’re relying on your computer’s built-in spell check to catch all your grammar mistakes, for example, it’s time to upgrade. Here are five stellar options to make you sound smarter. I have used one for 223 weeks straight.

With everything else we shell out cash for online, you don’t always want to pay for programs. If you need to save a little cash, I’ve got your back. First, check this list of simple ways to save money on streaming, cable and internet bills each month.

Round out the savings with this list of full-featured programs that work just like popular software everyone else uses:

1. Let’s start with the basics: Office software
When it comes to productivity software, Microsoft Office is the gold standard. Unfortunately, it's also expensive. Yes, there are some ways to get a discount if you genuinely need the Microsoft version. Tap or click here for tricks to get it free or cheap.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/komando/2021/09/23/9-free-software-copycats-work-better-than-real-expensive-ones/5819077001/
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This is from Kim Komando, who my uber-geek spousal unit respects highly

[Tetrachloride]

1. Research each category: here is MS Office alternatives

https://duckduckgo.com/?q=microsoft+office+alternatives

Kim’s story lists 1 alternative. According to the search, there are 10.

P.S. Mine is not always in the top 10.

[getagrip_already]

2. There is no such thing as free software.. ;) (mostly)

Most come with spyware or adware that will drive you nuts.

The exception to this rule is open source software like gnu, or products that sell into open source markets like 3D printing. Those tend to be solid, community supported titles.

But downloader beware. Some "free" software will cause you more trouble than they are worth.

[whopis01]

4. Several of the apps listed in the article are open source products.

VLC Player, Audacity, Libre Office, GIMP are all fantastic open source, community driven products.

[Gore1FL]

3. 7-zip is awesome and free.

Sysinternals has great utilities for advanced users.

[fizzix137]

5. try sharewareonsale.com

I look at sharewareonsale.com nearly every day to see what is offered. For a few more days you can get Advanced SystemCare 14 PRO free. You may have to use the search box to find it. I find it very useful and the PRO version has a lot of great features that don't come with the free version. It may give you annoying special offer messages despite being PRO, but to me, it's worth it.

[intheflow]

6. This is great, and let me add another alternative to Photoshop.

I love Acorn for image editing. It only works on Macs, but it's pretty darn awesome.

[ReceirZeff]

7. search engine

Agree with the DuckDuckGo. It's amazing to keep your interest within you.

[marble falls]

9. Thanks for thanking.