We list 50 of the best free tools that the Computeractive team uses at work and at home – and some suggested by your fellow readers, too
For every paid-for application there’s usually a free alternative.
It’s not always a full equivalent but with many applications packing in features that most people don’t need to use the free alternative can sometimes be simpler too.
We've listed 50 free downloads that the people who write for Computeractive have come to rely on. Some of these were suggested by readers, after discussions on our Readers to the Rescue forum and more recently our Facebook page.
1. An easy way to handle PDFs Cutepdf Writer CutePDF transforms documents and web pages into files that anyone with Adobe Reader can open, search and navigate with all the original formatting preserved. To use this tool you will first need to install a program called Ghostscript.
2. A stylish application dock Rocketdock There are various free Windows tools that ape the appearance of the Dock found on Apple computers but Rocketdock is one of the best we’ve seen. There are plenty of icons to download that will make it easier to keep your files and folders organised.
3. Fabulous and free sticky notes Stickypad Many PC tools have tried to emulate the simplicity of the ever-popular Post-It notes. We think this one is the best, as it keeps things simple.
4. Convert measurements quickly Convert
Josh Madison’s Convert converts a wide range of metrics quickly and easily. Just type one figure in and the answer comes out at the other end. It’s a case of substance over style but a useful addition to any PC.
5. Play any media file VLC
Ever tried to play a music video file only to be told you need a converter? VLC is an ever-present in our list of the top free tools because it will play virtually all audio and video files. There’s nothing particularly flash about it, although it can be customised if you wish. This one gets filed under ‘stuff that just works’, our favourite label for anything computer-related.
