Microsoft Word is the most used Word Processor in the world but many people do not know that there are many Microsoft Word Alternatives. Here is a list of 8 Great Microsoft Word Replacements which you can use instead if Microsoft Word.
1. Open Office
Open Office is the leading open source Microsoft Word replacement. Most people prefer its writer to most other alternatives to Microsoft Word because it performs some functions that even its corporate counterpart does not. For instance, Open Office can view PDF files without a plug-in. When comparing the two, Open Office often outperforms Microsoft Office when it comes to highly formatted or long documents. Because it is open source, Open Office creates a user-friendly atmosphere, making it an adequate alternative to Microsoft Office.
2. AbiWord
Perhaps the intriguing aspect of the AbiSource project is its accessibility on multiple platforms. Users can run their program on a Mac, a PC, or even a UNIX system. One of the most promising features of this program is its incredible document layout capabilities that can be easily bolstered using widely available free plug-ins. This allows users to cater to their own word-processing tastes. AbiSource also prides itself on allowing users to collaborate with multiple people on one document at the same time.
3. Google Docs
Everyones favorite search engine has an online-based alternative to Microsoft Word that is being utilized by millions of people. With Google Docs, you’ll be able to create, share, and collaborate on documents similar to AbiWord. Almost everyone has a Google account these days, and signing up is very easy as well. It is because of this accessibility that Google Docs continues to thrive even if it is completely online.
4. Zoho
Another online application that has rivaled Google Docs in recent years is Zoho. With 20 applications in its suite, the breadth of Microsoft Word is nearly covered. Zoho also allows you to link your Google and Yahoo accounts to it as well for easy access. Though there are problems with working online, such as losing data or your browser closing unexpectedly, Zoho combats these problems by saving documents automatically. Compatibility is also a non-issue. Zoho allows users to export files using the same extensions as Microsoft Word.
5. Peepel
Peepel is an online word-processing application that could be used as an alternative to Microsoft Office. Users can perform some of the most basic tasks that Microsoft Word allows, like Formatting, Inserting, Sharing, and Template-Switching. It is a bit cluttered and messy, though. The layout of Peepel incorporates a “social networking feel,” making it problematic for people who are trying to focus. The WebWriter box has an instant messaging feel, but printing and exporting your documents can still be performed.
6. IBM Lotus Symphony
IBM’s Lotus Symphony advertises itself as a “richly-featured set of productivity tools that are intuitive and easy to use.” With an emphasis on an “easy-to-use interface and online community,” the software company has created an application that certainly rivals Microsoft Word to some extent. Also equipped with a spreadsheet and presentation application, Symphony is actually based on an older version of Open Office, but with many changes that make it clearly unique now. It supports the open document, Microsoft Office, and PDF formats. Also, the grammar and spell check is highly sophisticated. Because of these reasons, it might be a smart idea to give Lotus a try.
7. Jarte
Jarte is a free online word processor that is based on Microsoft WordPad. This online application prides itself on being easy to use, while also modifying and expanding WordPad’s original feature set. Even though this program is indeed basic, it is perfect for users who only want a word processor that performs elementary functions.
8. NeoOffice
NeoOffice prides itself as being a “full-featured set of office applications.” The only catch: NeoOffice is for Mac users only! If you have a Mac, though, NeoOffice might be a good choice for you. It has an incredibly stable code and runs much smoother and faster than Open Office, even if it doesn’t have all of its features.
