When we talk of word processing programs, we easily think of Microsoft Word, which has undoubtedly gained the number one slot in the world. Most of us need word processes time and again, and therefore, it is better to know a few alternatives to Microsoft Word. There are two kinds of word processors and editors available. One can be installed on your Desktop or Laptop and you can save files locally, while the other one is web-based and you need an internet connection to access them.
Also read – MS Word AlternativesĀ & MS Excel Spreadsheet Alternatives.
In this article...
Free Microsoft OfficeĀ Alternatives
Let’s start with the first one.
1. Open Office
Apache OpenOffice is the leading open-source office software suite for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, graphics, databases and more. It is available in many languages and works on all common computers. It stores all your data in an international open standard format and can also read and write files from other common office software packages. It can be downloaded and used completely free of charge for any purpose.
2. ThinkFree Office
This is an advanced suite that offers a large number of functions likeĀ MS office. You can find a complete package that includes spreadsheet and presentation apart from word processor. ThinkFree Office leads others in many ways because this is a computer and web based service at the same time, and you can get web storage up to 1GB with them. There is also a mobile application, which allows you to use their services on the mobile platform, as well.
3. Ability Office
This is paid word processor that offers an interface in the Office 2010 Ribbon style. Allows improved OOXML import and export, and you can find support for docx, xlsx, and pptx without additional pack. Cloud interface with Dropbox is also offered by Ability Office. You can do almost anything that you have been doing with MS office, including using word, spreadsheets, presentations, photo albums and paint option. If you have been thinking about compatibility with Microsoft Office file formats such as 2010, 2007 and 2003, you can be assured that you can easily convert files.
4. SoftMaker Office
This suite has been long projected as one of the fastest and smartest alternatives to Microsoft Office. You get everything in this suite including spreadsheet, word processor, and presentation maker along with macro-language. The best thing is that you can use the suite for Linux, as well. There are standard and professional versions available that you can choose on the basis of features and price.
5. LibreOffice
This was initially a part of OpenOffice.org and offers a multi-platform suite that can meet the needs of daily work. It is a complete office suite that comes with added themes and features that make it easy to use the overall package. Interoperability has been improved recently, and you can use this word processor for its complete list of services and features.
6. Kingsoft Office
Another complete office suite that you might come across. This one offers a versatile word processor, multimedia presentation maker, powerful spreadsheet application and mobile office to cater all kinds of needs that you might have. The new 2012 version comes with a PPT to DOC converter and Office PDF converter as specially added features. If you want to try it before you start using it, you can check the trial version. The mobile platform is another feather in its hat and you can use the same for smart phones with ease.
7. Siag Office
If you are looking for an office suite that is designed and targeted for the UNIX platform, look no beyond than this one. This is a free office package, which makes it a real winner. You get almost everything including word processor, spreadsheet, animation program, text editor XedPlus and a file manager.
8. Google Drive
Google Drive was earlier known as Google Docs. For those looking for an online application that is well designed and integrated and is free to use, this is one for them. It is not just a fast word processor, but it also allows you to share files and data without any hassle. You can edit and write just like Microsoft Word, but the process of organizing the files is much simpler. Since the files are stored on the internet, you can access them from anywhere. With the Google stamp, this one is a clear winner.
Next time you come across a computer that doesnāt have Microsoft Office, donāt bother about getting the same. You can buy or download some of the office suites or at least check their trial versions.
I like Google drive. It works great, except some advanced formulas not working in spreadsheets. š