The only paid alternative worth mentioning in the realm of productivity suites is the one that has already been mentioned: Microsoft Office. Some users have also reported that the latest version does freeze up on them from time to time, though it did not do so when tested. The one that is generally recommended is Mozilla Thunderbird. While most areas of perform remarkably well, if you're dealing with lots of Microsoft Office file formats then you'll find that some features present in documents, spreadsheets and so on created on Microsoft Office may not translate well.Īdditionally, does not have an integrated email client (in the style of Microsoft Outlook), but is compatible with a wide range of email clients instead. Needless to say, the other advantage of is that it is completely free, and is even a little bit more resource friendly due to its slightly more bare-boned nature. With it, you can create and edit mathematical equations and then incorporate them into Writer and the other applications as objects. The one area in which actually surpasses its rival is its Math application. Despite using their own file formats, they are also compatible with most of the Microsoft Office formats too. On the whole most of the applications within live up to expectations and perform well. Although they are by no means clones of Microsoft Office applications, you'll find the layout relatively familiar even if it is a little bit barer in terms of icons and options. While you're there you can also opt to open a file or template.ĭepending on your choice you'll be directed to the appropriate application. If you launch the main shortcut you'll be directed to a quick-start screen that allows you to choose whether you'd like to create a new text document, spreadsheet, presentation, drawing, database, or formula.

As of this latest version, supports Windows 8 alongside 7, Vista, XP, and 2000. Naturally the latter option allows you to control exactly which components are installed, though inexperienced or casual users may find the former to be more convenient.Īfter you've made your choice, the installation should proceed smoothly. When installing you can either opt for the typical or custom route. It is a free and open source productivity suite that contains software to rival Microsoft Office and includes word processor, spreadsheet, presentation, graphics, formula-editor as well as database management applications. Going up against Microsoft Office is never easy - but that's exactly what is doing.

Winner Best software in 2014 - Office Suites. ' Open source multi-platform office suite.'

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