Top 50 free software tools

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.

6. Rename files in batches
Flash Renamer 6
Different brands of cameras, camcorders and even phones each have their own naming convention for photos. Renaming them to something more meaningful can be laborious. That’s where Flash Renamer steps in, enabling you to add descriptive tags while preserving a numbered list. It works with music files, too.

7. Keep passwords safe
Roboform
It seems that practically every online service requires a username and password these days. While there are plenty of tools that make it easier to recall them, we like Roboform’s range of tools, such as its secure password generator and ability to fill in online forms. As with all password managers, make sure the master password you choose cannot be forgotten.

8. Use a better Explorer
Xplorer2
Windows Explorer is the most-used and least-noticed tool PC users have to hand. It’s the application that manages files and folders, enabling you to browse and search within them. This version of Xplorer2 is free for personal and education use and gives you greater control of your computer.

9. Find the right word
Wordweb
Whether you’re a writer, a blogger or a word puzzle fan, Wordweb’s dictionary, thesaurus and word finder could help you find the word that is so often just out of reach on the tip of your tongue. Unlike some online word tools, this one distinguishes between British English and its many variants with their idiosyncratic spellings.

10. Take note
Notalon
If you’re in an environment where taking notes is important, you could do worse than Notalon. It is based on the famous Cornell method of note taking and provides a simple way to assign keyboard shortcuts to speed things up. Once your notes have been finished they can be exported as plain text or as a PDF file.