What is the best word processor

A person typing on a laptop.
(Image credit: Burst / Pexels)

The best free word processor makes it simple and easy way to create digital documents, without having to buy a software license.

You might be able to manage without a spreadsheet tool or something for making slideshows, but text documents are unavoidable. However, while there are some good, free word processing programs out there, they tend to not have so many features as paid-for software. 

Even when they do, there can be compatibility issues with moving document formats between software platforms, especially when importing to Microsoft Word (opens in new tab).

Here we’re looking at the very best word processors that can be used offline (particularly useful for distraction-free writing), but there are also several excellent browser-based tools to consider if you’d rather do your writing online.

These then are the best free word processors and alternatives to Microsoft Word, that will provide a reliable platform for you to work from, at home or in the office.

We’ve also featured the best Microsoft Office alternatives.

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The best free word processor of 2023 in full:

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LibreOffice website screenshot

(Image credit: LibreOffice)

All-singing, all-dancing word processors for any text-based work

Specifications

Operating system: Windows, macOS, Linux

Reasons to buy

+

Excellent format compatibility

+

Document template galleries

+

Support for plugins

+

No ads or paywalls

LibreOffice is a fork of Apache OpenOffice, and the two offer very similar word processing apps, but LibreOffice receives more frequent updates and has a more lively userbase, so we’re inclined to lean in its favor. 

The word processor, Writer, is a feature-packed analog of Microsoft Word, packed with all the tools you could need for any text-based work. 

The two versions of Writer include wizards and templates for common document types, such as invoices and letters, and it’s easy to create your own templates for future use as well. The word processors also work together with the other office software in their respective suites – so you can use Base to create a bibliography, for example.

Both word processors support all the most popular file formats, and can export documents to PDF without the need for additional software. If you’re looking for a word processor that can stand in for Microsoft Word, either of these two will be a perfect candidate.

Read our full LibreOffice review.

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WPS Office website screenshot

(Image credit: WPS Office)

A word processor with cloud storage and support for all text files

Specifications

Operating system: Windows, macOS, Linux

Reasons to buy

+

Interface almost identical to Word

+

Excellent file format support

+

Free cloud storage

Reasons to avoid

Contains some ads

If you’ve used a modern version of Microsoft Word, there’ll be no learning curve when you switch to Writer – the word processing component of WPS Office Free.

This free word processor looks and behaves almost exactly like its premium counterpart, and even has its own equivalent of OneDrive, offering 1GB free cloud storage.

Its selection of pre-installed templates gives you everything you need for common document types, and you can easily create your own for bespoke tasks. It’s compatible with every text file format you can think of, including current and legacy versions of Microsoft Word dating back to Office 97.

WPS Office Writer is supported by discrete ads, which can be removed by upgrading to the premium version, but they’re barely noticeable and no features are locked behind a paywall. Overall, WPS Writer is very impressive, and in our opinion it’s the best free word processor available to download today.

WPS recently launched a free PDF to Word converter (opens in new tab) as well, which is a great companion to its word processor.

Read our full WPS Office Free review.

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FocusWriter website screenshot

(Image credit: FocusWriter)

The ideal word processor for first drafts, with no fussy formatting

Specifications

Operating system: Windows, macOS, Linux

Reasons to buy

+

Blocks out distractions

+

Timers and alarms

+

Auto-save function

Reasons to avoid

Not ideal for editing

If you simply want to hammer out some words without worrying about formatting, you could just use Windows’ built-in Notepad app, but FocusWriter is full of clever tools that will help you maximize productivity without ever getting in the way.

As the name implies, FocusWriter blocks out all distractions so you can give that all-important first draft your full attention. In normal use, all you see is a blank page – toolbars are only visible if you move your mouse pointer to the edge of the screen – but there’s a killer feature in Focused Text, which fades everything into the background except the current paragraph or sentence.

FocusWriter also features alerts that are triggered at certain times, or when you’ve reached a predefined word count, so you don’t need to worry about watching a counter (as you would in Microsoft Word). This also makes FocusWriter a good tool to use in tandem with the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working hard for a period of time that’s long enough for you to work productively, but not so long that you become fatigued.

It’s not great for editing, but for productivity, FocusWriter is hard to beat.

Read our full FocusWriter review.

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FreeOffice TextMaker website screenshot

(Image credit: FreeOffice)

Another great looking word processor, but watch your file formats

Specifications

Operating system: Windows, Mac, Linux

Reasons to buy

+

Can export to EPUB format

+

Prints multiple pages per sheet

+

Opens password-protected files

Reasons to avoid

Doesn’t support DOCX files

TextMaker – the word processing element of SoftMaker FreeOffice – is good looking, and comes with several handy templates for creating letters and other everyday documents. The selection isn’t as extensive as some of its rivals’, but you can also make new designs for future use and save them in TMV format.

All the features you’d expect from a modern word processor are present and correct, including advanced formatting options, the ability to create databases for managing bibliographies and footnotes, and a function for tracking changes to collaborative projects.

The only real drawback of TextMaker is its inability to save your work in DOCX format (though you can open and edit these files with no difficulty). This feature is limited to the premium version of SoftMaker Office.

Read our full FreeOffice review.

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Writemonkey website screenshot

(Image credit: Writemonkey)

Productivity-focused word processing with quick shortcuts

Specifications

Operating system: Windows

Reasons to buy

+

Distraction-free interface

+

Supports markup

+

Handy keyboard shortcuts

Reasons to avoid

Only works with TXT files

WriteMonkey is another no-frills word processor designed to help you maximize your output without fussing with editing and formatting. It’s not intended for documents like letters or CVs, but is great for committing early ideas to paper (or screen) so you have the raw material to develop later.

Unlike FocusWriter, which is compatible with all the most common text formats (including Microsoft’s DOC and DOCX), WriteMonkey only works with TXT files, so you’ll have to convert any works in progress before opening them. WriteMonkey’s hidden controls are trickier to navigate, too – everything is accessed via a large right-click menu, or a vast collection of keyboard shortcuts.

That said, if you’re happy to commit those shortcuts to memory, you’ll find WriteMonkey faster to use than toolbar-based alternatives.

We also like the ability to look words up in Wikipedia, Google Images, Poetry.com, Answers.com, and many others without opening a browser winder manually and leaving yourself open to the temptations of Twitter and Facebook.

WriteMonkey is a portable app, so there’s no need to install it – just extract all the downloaded files to a removable drive or cloud storage service and fire it up by running the file WriteMonkey.exe.

Read our full Writemonkey review.

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Google Docs website screenshot

(Image credit: Google)

Free online word processing with sharing and collaboration features

Reasons to buy

+

Convenient sharing and editing through Google Drive

+

Excellent support options

+

15 GB of free storage

Reasons to avoid

Mobile app lacks a few features

Formatting issues

Not as good as Microsoft Word

When it comes to free word processing, Google Docs may seem like one of the most obvious choices, and has the advantage of saving your work automatically so you don’t have to worry if your connection fails. 

It’s also a good choice for collaborative working, and means you don’t have to upload work to a separate cloud storage service. 

However, it has a limited selection of templates, there’s no way to import content from other Google applications, it suffers from the formatting issues when importing mentioned above, and any online tool is going to be surrounded by distractions like social media.

Read our full Google Docs review.

We’ve also featured the best free cloud apps for business.


Which free word processor is best for you?

When deciding which free word processor to download and use, first consider what your actual needs are, as sometimes free platforms may only provide basic options. That means if you need to use advanced tools you may find a paid platform is much more worthwhile. Additionally, free and budget software options can sometimes prove limited when it comes to the variety of tools available, while higher-end software can really cater for every need, so do ensure you have a good idea of which features you think you may require.

How we tested the best free word processor

To test for the best free word processor we first set up an account with the relevant software platform, whether as a download or as an online service. We then tested the service to see how the software could be used for different purposes and in different situations, especially looking at how it worked with different file formats. The aim was to push each software platform to see how useful its basic tools were and also how easy it was to get to grips with any more advanced tools.

Read how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar.  

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Cat is the editor of TechRadar’s sister site Advnture. She’s a UK Athletics qualified run leader, and in her spare time enjoys nothing more than lacing up her shoes and hitting the roads and trails (the muddier, the better)

Most Popular

Microsoft Word has almost become synonymous with word processors, but its high pricing has stopped many users from using its services. Naturally, a lot of free word processors have come up with similar features and compatibility with DOC/DOCX format. You can use these word processors online and some even offer full-fledged offline desktop apps. Whether you want to write or edit a long-drawn document, you can do everything using these word processors for free. So on that note, let’s go ahead and find out which free word processors are worth using in 2022.

Here are the best free word processors that you should use in 2022 having top-notch features and tools. You can expand the table below and click on the link to move to the corresponding application.

1. Google Docs

If you are looking for a free word processor that can be used on any platform then Google Docs is the perfect pick. Unlike other online word processors, Google Docs is actually pretty feature-packed and supports offline writing too which can be enabled through a Chrome extension. There are a ton of third-party add-ons just like Microsoft Word Add-ins that can be integrated to bring more functionality.

Best Free Word Processors (2021)

What’s more, Google Docs is far superior to any other word processor when it comes to real-time collaboration. So if you have a writing project where multiple users are working on then Google Docs will fare better than other apps.

Having said all of that, keep in mind, Google Docs does not sit well with MS Word formatting, although it supports DOC/DOCX format. But the good part is that you have the option to export the file in PDF format. All in all, if you generally work on web documents and want a solution that works well and for free then Google Docs is highly recommended.

Check Out Google Docs (Free)

2. Microsoft Word 365

The desktop version of Microsoft Word charges a sky-high price and Microsoft is aware of it. That’s why the company has developed a free version of Microsoft Word and other Office apps that can be only accessed through the web. It means that you can’t use the free version of Microsoft Office while you are offline.

2. Microsoft Word 365

Also, keep in mind, the feature disparity between Microsoft Word 365 (online version) and Microsoft Word Desktop version is quite huge. You simply do not have ample Layout and formatting options in the free version. For a full list of differences between Microsoft Office 365 and Desktop apps, head over to our linked article.

Apart from that, bear in mind, formatting breaks on the online version if you try to import an MS Word 2019 file. Simply put, Microsoft Word 365 can be a great free word processor if you don’t have a complex project at hand. For basic stuff, it’s quite good and does the job well.

Check Out Microsoft Word 365 (Free, Premium subscription starts at $9.99 per month)

3. LibreOffice

After two online word processors, finally we come to a full-fledged word processor that offers offline desktop apps and is totally available for free. LibreOffice is an open-source project that is compatible with Microsoft Word and other Office documents. It aims to bring all the powerful tools and features of popular word processors in a slick and modern user interface — all for free.

Besides that, what gives LibreOffice the edge is that its code is much better optimizedthus making it lighter and faster. Also, LibreOffice is more actively developed and is the default office suite included with the majority of Linux distros. And just recently LibreOffice 7.1 was released with support for better compatibility with DOC/DOCX file format and new table and writing features. I would say, if you want a free word processor in 2022 that has desktop-level tools and features then LibreOffice is simply the best out there.

Download (Free)

4. Apache OpenOffice

Probably after LibreOffice, Apache OpenOffice is another word processor that is available for free and is loaded with features. It features powerful tools, fonts, table elements, and gets new features regularly due to the active development team. Just like LibreOffice, OpenOffice by Apache is completely free and open-source and includes a word processor, a spreadsheet program, a presentation software, a graphics editor, and a DBMS application.

Best Free Word Processors (2021)

Not to mention, Apache OpenOffice is compatible with DOC/DOCX files, and rarely would you find broken formatting while moving between different programs. In addition to that, OpenOffice also supports a huge number of other file formats including PDF, SWF, PPT, and more.

It can also be extended with a variety of downloadable extensions, and its constituent sub-modules include all standard features like diagramming tools, autocomplete, and natural language formulas. So to sum up, if you want to work on a lengthy and complex project then Apache OpenOffice is another free word processor that you can rely on.

Download (Free)

5. Polaris Office

Polaris Office is a pretty popular word processor and it’s strictly not a free word processor like the other ones mentioned on this list. However, the best part about Polaris Office is that the company offers a limited free version that brings enough features to suit the needs of most individual users. Basically, you will not have to pay a high subscription fee to complete your work.

If you are someone who want support for add-ons and diagrams then you can opt for the Enterprise plan which is also quite cheaper than other solutions. When it comes to features under the free version, I would say Polaris Office offers all the essential tools that one might expect from a capable word processor.

Polaris Office Best Free Word Processors (2021)

What’s more, there’s even real-time collaboration where two and more people can work on the same document simultaneously. And in case, you go for their paid plan then you will also be able to access features such as PDF annotations, comments, animation editing, document security, and more. To conclude, Polaris Office is another great desktop-level word processor which is free in a limited way but is totally usable. I would say give it a try and see if Polaris Office suffices your need.

Download (Free, Paid plan starts at $39.99/year)

6. Zoho Writer

In any discussion of word processors, rarely would you find people talk about Zoho Writer. But Zoho Writer is actually a really good word processor that is completely free — both online and in the offline desktop version. What I love about Zoho Writer is that it’s quite clean with all the basic features and toolset required to edit a word document. Don’t expect MS Word level of features, but it’s there with Microsoft Office 365 version.

Best Free Word Processors (2021)

You can insert images, change indentation position, change fonts, choose a template, collaborate with multiple users in real-time, and do much more. Not to mention, Zoho Writer has a special engine to convert DOC/DOCX documents and keep that original formatting intact so that is great. All in all, I would say, just go ahead and create a free Zoho account and you will be able to access its word processor for free.

Download (Free)

7. Dropbox Paper

While Dropbox is moving many of its products behind a paywall, it’s still offering Dropbox Paper for free to its users. In case you are unaware, Dropbox Paper is the company’s lite word processor where the focus is real-time collaboration, access to to-dos, and managing tasks. In addition, you can add images, videos to the document, create table, add calendar timelines, and do much more.

dropbox paper

What I like is that it also supports adding code snippets which many IT organizations would find helpful. There is also support for bulleted and numbered list. To sum up, if you are not looking for a traditional word processor and something that brings team members on one page then Dropbox Paper is an amazing free tool that you can get behind.

Check Out Dropbox Paper (Free)

8. Apple Pages

If you are in the Apple ecosystem then you don’t need to go hunting for a free word processor because you already have it and it’s called Pages. Pages — part of iWork — is available on Mac, iPad, and iPhone so you are covered on all Apple devices. With Pages, you can create beautiful word documents in various fonts, color schemes, templates, and more.

Best Free Word Processors (2021) iwork pages

You can add tables, charts, images, media and create your own style to give a distinct look to your word document. And the best part is that Pages is compatible with MS Word and you can export documents in DOC/DOCX, PDF, EPUB and more. Considering all the points, I would say, you have got a feature-packed word processor right on your Apple device and you should surely take advantage of it.

Comes preinstalled

9. FreeOffice TextMaker

FreeOffice TextMaker is a word processor that is feature-packed, lightweight, free, and one that works really well. It includes all the three standard office programs including a word processor. In terms of feature set, FreeOffice TextMaker is right there with LibreOffice and Free Office. I love the fact that you have similar-looking tools and features which many would appreciate.

9. FreeOffice TextMaker

Coming to compatibility, FreeOffice TextMaker has robust support for MS Office file formats, and better Office XML compatibility. Apart from that, it includes perks like multiple language dictionaries for more efficient spellchecking and smart indentation. To sum up, FreeOffice TextMaker is another free word processor with desktop-level features and you should definitely give it a shot.

Download (Free)

10. WPS Office

Before we talk about WPS Office, let me make it clear that WPS Office displays ads and there has been a number of allegations against the company regarding data privacy. In addition, WPS Office is developed by Kingsoft which is a Beijing-based company and operates Cheetah Mobile — the shady company that Google banned from the Play Store. So if you feel strongly about your privacy then I would recommend you to stay away from WPS Office.

wps office Best Free Word Processors (2021)

As for the features, WPS Office is hailed as a lightweight word processor that is available for free without having limited features. It weighs around 300MB and offers all three office programs — word, spreadsheet, and presentation.

In addition to having all the essential document creation/editing abilities, WPS Office includes hundreds of free templates and fonts. The free version lets you create and edit documents in MS Office compatible formats. To sum up, on the utility side, WPS Office is really good and a lightweight word processor, but on the privacy front, it leaves a lot to be desired.

Download (Free)

Use Word Processors for Free on Windows 10, macOS, Linux in 2022

So these are some of the top word processors that are freely available and can be used both online and offline on several desktop platforms. Personally, I use Google Docs and Microsoft Word online, but there are times when you want to add complex tables or customize the border then you realize, you need a full-fledged word processor. So just go through our list and pick the suitable one for you. Anyway, that is all from us. If you found the article helpful then comment down below and let us know.

A Word processor is a computer program that provides for input, editing, formatting, and output of text. It includes some additional features such as creating, editing, saving, and printing documents.

Following is a handpicked list of Top Word Processor, with their popular features and website links. The list contains both open source (free) and commercial (paid) software.

Best Free Word Processor Software: Top Picks

Name Platform Link
Microsoft Word Windows, Mac, Android, iOS Learn More
Google Doc Web, iOS, and Android, and Mac Learn More
Grammarly Web and browser extension Learn More
Prowritingaid Windows, Mac, and Web Learn More
Scrivener Windows, iOS, and Mac Learn More

#1) Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is a writing app that helps you to transform documents into web pages. It offers a real-time translation facility with just one tap. This program enables you to read and edit documents attached to the email.

Features:

  • It provides templates for resumes and forms.
  • You can read documents, PDF, letters, and scripts on your mobile device.
  • It enables you to save a document as a PDF file.
  • Share your file with others with a few taps.
  • Support editing with rich formatting.
  • Manage permission for documents
  • You can comment in the documents.
  • Supported platform: Android, Mac, iOS, and Windows.

Visit Ms Word >>


#2) Google Doc

Google Doc is an online application that helps you to format text and paragraphs. It contains numerous fonts and images. This word processing software tool offers templates for writing documents. You can use the application to create and make changes in files anywhere at any time.

Features:

  • You can access it from a Phone, tablet, or computer.
  • You can make changes in the document in real-time.
  • It offers chat and comment in the file.
  • Convert Google Doc file to Word file or vice versa.
  • You can search quotes, text, and images in the Google Doc Android app.
  • Supported platforms: Web, iOS, and Android, and Mac.

Link: http://docs.google.com/


#3) Grammarly

Grammarly is a widely used writing enhancement tool. It offers numerous writing styles, suggestions for grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. You can use this tool via the website, as a browser extension, or as an app that you download to your computer.

Features:

  • It helps enhance your writing skills by highlighting grammatical mistakes and areas of improvement.
  • It works with every type of website with ease.
  • Detect contextual mistakes.
  • Genre-specific suggestion abilities.
  • It offers a useful knowledge base for grammar learning.
  • Helps writer to boost their writing style.
  • Make text corrections across different websites and platforms.
  • Supported platforms: Web and browser extension.

Visit Grammarly >>


#4) Prowritingaid

Prowritingaid is a tool that offers world-class grammar and style checking facility. It helps you to edit documents faster. This software includes more than 1000s of style to improve your writing.

Feature:

  • It enables you to fix the writing style issue.
  • Prowritingaid shows spelling and grammar mistakes.
  • It has word explorer facilities to find the right word.
  • This tool offers a consistent report to reduce mistakes.
  • Supported Platform: Mac, Web, and Windows.

Visit Prowritingaid >>


#5) Scrivener

Scrivener is an ideal app design for writers. It provides a management system for documents and metadata. This app helps you to organize and research the document for easy access.

Features:

  • It highlights the phrases that you need to work.
  • You can add comments and annotations.
  • This software allows you to indent block quota.
  • Make heading large and bold.
  • You can import plain text files, and Word documents, PDF documents, and more.
  • Supported Platform: Windows, iOS, and Mac.

Visit Scrivener >>


#6) Calmlywriter

Calmlywriter is free writing software. The design of this program is minimal. This online application is design to help you to focus on your writing skills. It has a “focus mode” option that can highlight the paragraph you are writing.

Features:

  • You can get the support of full-screen mode.
  • It is simple to use.
  • You can on or off typewriter sound.
  • Supports syntax to format headers, bold, italics, as well as bullets.
  • It allows you to use keyboard shortcuts.
  • Spell check via a browser.
  • It provides a word counter.
  • You can export to PDF file.
  • Supported platforms: Web and browser extension.

Link: https://www.calmlywriter.com/online/


#7) Ginger software

Ginger is one of the oldest writing enhancement tool. It is one of the best free word processor that will help you to correct text as you type, picking up many common grammatical errors like punctuation, sentence structuring, subject-verb agreement, writing style, and wording. Apart from the usual grammar, the checker offers a set of unique little features in it like text reader, translator, trainer, etc.

Features:

  • Ginger software is well efficient Grammarly checker tool to detect misspelled words.
  • It helps you correct all errors at once and allows you to undo all changes with just one click.
  • This program allows you to do the switching between US and UK English languages.
  • Ginger punctuation checker helps you to check punctuation mistakes in your content.
  • You can add your words to the personal dictionary to consider them as errors in the future.
  • Identify document errors and correct them.
  • Spelling and grammar check.
  • Help improve users’ English writing skills.
  • Supported platform: Windows, iOS, Mac, and browser extension.

Link: https://www.gingersoftware.com/


#8) JotterPad – Writer, Screenplay, Novel

JotterPad is an Android application that is designed especially for writers. It has a plain text editor helping you to write books, poems, novels, essays, etc. The tool enables you to focus on converting your thoughts into a plain text file.

Features:

  • You can quickly search for phrases.
  • It supports Markdown (Text to HTML conversion tool).
  • It allows you to count words.
  • This tool helps you to control the version of the document.
  • Write or edit the text in the cloud.
  • Print or publish your work to PDF.
  • It has a built-in dictionary to search for words.
  • Supported platform: Android.

Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jotterpad.x&hl=en_IN


#9) Evernote Web

Evernote is an application designed for writing notes. This free word processing software helps you capture and prioritize your ideas, to-do lists, and projects across more than one computing device.

Features:

  • You can move or remove the section of the page.
  • It allows you to change the design of the paper.
  • Erase unwanted strokes or marks.
  • Enables you to highlight the color of the text.
  • You can copy, cut, or paste selected shapes or strokes.
  • Supported platform: Windows, iOS, Android, and Mac.

Link: https://help.evernote.com/hc/en-us/articles/209122047-Start-writing


#10) Readable

Readable is a word processor that helps you to test the readability, grammar, and spelling of your text. It supports integration with API into your content management software. You can paste your text into this tool, and it will give you instant analysis. It also recommends improvement.

Features:

  • It can analyze the quality of the text.
  • This free word processor tool can check the density of the keyword.
  • The application gives readability alerts.
  • It provides team management facility.
  • Readable allows you to share text, file scores, and websites.
  • Supported platform: Web.

Link: https://readable.com/


#11) Dragon Naturally Speaking

Dragon Naturally Speaking is software for speech recognition. This application allows you to talk, and your words will appear on the screen. It helps you to make documents without using a keyboard.

Features:

  • It allows you to control your PC by voice with accuracy and speed.
  • This tool is faster than typing text with a keyboard.
  • It can be used by students, enterprise users, and professionals.
  • Supported platform: Windows, Android, and iOS.

Link: https://www.nuance.com/dragon.html


#12) Scribus

Scribus is a free and open-source desktop publishing software. It is specially designed for typesetting, layout, and presentation of files. This app can also create PDFs and forms.

Features:

  • It offers a user-friendly interface.
  • Support publishing features like color management and PDF creation.
  • You can draw vector drawings.
  • This application Supports documentation creation tools like LaText, Lilypond, etc.
  • You can import or export a huge number of files to Scribus.
  • Supported Platform: Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, Solaris, PC-BSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD, and Haiku.

Link: https://www.scribus.net/


#13) Draft

A draft is a tool that helps you to write a draft simply and easily. It is one of the best word processing programs that enables you to control the version of the documents. This software allows you to import documents from a wide range of cloud services.

Feature:

  • Email your doc into the draft.
  • It can assist you with transcription.
  • Support Markdown.
  • You can share your document with others.
  • It allows you to comment on your writing.
  • Supported platform: Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Link: https://draftin.com/


#14) iA Writer: The Markdown Writing App

iA writer creates a clean and easy to use writing environment. It helps you to edit your text file in any app you like. This app has a focus mode that allows you to stay in the flow.

Feature:

  • It can highlight the syntax.
  • This tool can search the document.
  • Support customization of the template.
  • It supports automatic table alignment.
  • The app offers two modes light and dark mode.
  • It helps you to write a phrase and a sentence.
  • Supported platform: Mac, Android, iOS, and Windows.

Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.ia.iawriter.x


#15) Writer Plus (Write On the Go)

Writer Plus (Write On the Go) is a writer app. This tool helps you to write notes, poems, novels, and essays on tablets or phones. It supports many languages, including English, Russian, German, Chinese, and French.

Feature:

  • It enables you to open, make changes, and save a text file.
  • This tool provides keyboard shortcuts.
  • Provide support of Markdown format
  • It utilizes a limited system resource.
  • Writer Plus enables you to use H3, H3, H4, italic & bold, list, numbered list, and more.
  • Supported platform: iOS, Android, Mac, OS X, and Windows.

Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.easy4u.writer


#16) iA Writer

iA Writer is a text editor that gives users a clean, simple, and distraction-free writing experience. This tool can be used devices like smartphones, tablets, and more.

Feature:

  • Supports keyboard shortcuts.
  • It can highlight the current sentence and word you are typing.
  • You can connect to cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox.
  • It has easy to use writing interface.
  • Supported platform: Mac and Windows.

Link: https://ia.net/writer


#17) Writing Challenge

Writing challenge is a tool that provides an easy way to improve writing. You can write stories step by step. It helps you speed up your writing by adjusting the timer.

Feature:

  • This tool helps you to generate creative ideas.
  • It provides many combinations to start your stories.
  • This software offers an option to suggest in your story.
  • Supported platform: Android, Mac, and iOS.

Link: https://www.writingchallengeapp.com/


#18) Novelist – Write your novels

Novelist is the app that can be used to write novels. It is free software that allows you to backup and restore documents with Google Drive. This software offers a book preview facility. The tool has a rich text editor that saves your document automatically.

Feature:

  • Write anything using any browser.
  • It has templates that help you to write a book.
  • Book compilation in EPUB (e-book file format), HTML format.
  • You can insert comments in your book.
  • It allows you to see and restore previous versions of the text.
  • This application offers a comfortable night mode that enables you to focus on writing.
  • Supported platform: Android.

Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=it.returntrue.novelist


#19) Pure Writer

Pure Writer is a simple text software that is designed to have a good user experience. This tool helps you to recover accidentally removed documents. It saves the article if the content is changed.

Feature:

  • Check if the article is saved in the database or not.
  • Offers history records and undo and redo features.
  • Integrate this tool with WebDAV (Web Distributed Authoring and Versioning).
  • It this software fails to autosave the file, you won’t be able to exit the editor without saving it.
  • Supported platform: Mac, Windows, and Android.

Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.drakeet.purewriter&hl=en_IN


#20) Write Room

Write Room is an application that helps you to write without distraction. This tool offers a full-screen writing mode. It helps you to focus on your writing.

Feature:

  • You can handle large document information quickly.
  • It offers live reading time and word count.
  • You can select sentences, words, and paragraphs using a command.
  • It automatically log activity to a spreadsheet.
  • The application provides themes to save switch and save settings.
  • This tool enables you to choose paper textures, background images, and typing sounds.
  • Supported platform: Mac and iOS.

Link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/writeroom


#21) Ulysses (for Mac)

Ulysses is a tool that helps you to manage you’re your projects. It enables you to work anywhere, anytime. This tool helps you to transform the text into a PDF file. You can export text file HTML for use on the web.

Feature:

  • This software offers a clean and distraction-free environment.
  • It helps you to enhance plaintext.
  • Ulysses has a hierarchic group that enables you to organize your writing project.
  • Collaboration, for example, with your colleague using Dropbox.
  • Export text file to Markdown, HTML, or rich text.
  • Publish stories to Medium and WordPress.
  • Provides live preview to see how your output will look like.
  • It has numerous styles and themes.
  • Supported platform: Mac and iOS.

Link: https://ulysses.app/


#22) Byword

Byword is a writing app that has tools for writing Markdown and rich text formatting files. It has a word checker and counter feature. This program supports VoiceOver API. You can use this software to capture ideas and notes that are available in all the devices.

Features:

  • It helps you to make writing easier.
  • This tool can Sync text files across all the devices, including Mac, iPhone, iPad.
  • You can export texts file to HTML and PDF documents.
  • Publish to Blogger, Medium, Evernote, Tumblr, WordPress, and many more.
  • Supported platform:Mac and iOS.

Link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/byword/id420212497


#23) Writer

Writer is a word processor that enables you to create documents for free. This tool offers readability, contextual grammar, and style suggestions. It allows you to integrate with Blogger pages or WordPress.

Features:

  • Allows you to collaborate with team in real time.
  • It helps you to review and document approval easily.
  • You can save the document as PDF and MS Word.
  • This tool helps you to manage your workflow.
  • Enables you to merge documents together.

Link: https://www.zoho.com/writer/

FAQ:

❓ What are Word Processor Software?

Word Process Software are applications that help you to write and manage stories, emails, ideas, social media posts, articles, and more.

💻 Which are the Best Word Processor Software?

🏅 Why use Word Processor Software?

Word Process Software are used because:

  • They help you to make writing easier.
  • It offers numerous writing styles, suggestions for grammar, vocabulary, syntax.
  • Applications identify document errors and correct them.

⚡ What are the general features of Word Processor Software?

Here are the best features of Word Process Software:

  • Word Processor Software solves grammatical errors like punctuation, sentence structuring, subject-verb agreement, writing style, and wording.
  • Export text file to Markdown, HTML, or rich text.
  • It helps you to make writing easier.

When you sit in on a virtual conference or when your boss starts firing off their favorite productivity tips, what do you do? You open a digital document and take notes. 📝

…probably with the same word processing software you’ve used since the ninth grade. 👀

Word processing software isn’t what it used to be—it’s better.

These tools have evolved beyond the boring blank screens we felt forced to use. Now, word processing can actually be fun!

Rich text editing, dynamic formatting, intuitive writing assistance, and collaboration features are some of the greatest benefits to using top word processing software. But the best part? It’s also incredibly affordable.

Follow along as we dive into every must-have word-processing feature and the 10 best word-processing software for every team, writing style, and use case! Complete with detailed feature comparisons, pros and cons, pricing, ratings, and more!

What is a Word Processing Software?

Word processing software is an application used to capture, format, and edit any form of writing—whether it be your general thoughts, meeting notes, SOPs, or email drafts. Your mind may immediately go to typewriters, but the benefits of word-processing software extend much further than that.

document everything ClickUp CTA

Thanks to the modern development of project management software, collaboration tools, and intuitive design, word processing software can do more than you ever thought possible! You can edit one document alongside your peers, arrange documents by category, share them via simple links, and flex your creativity with rich formatting. And these days, that’s just the bare minimum!

The thing is, there are a ton of word processing software to choose from these days.

In fact, we’d bet our bottom dollar that you can think of a few off the top of your head as we speak! You might even have a top three!

But with the number of new, flexible, and exciting features being added to word processing tools each day, it’s important to know what to look for in your go-to software in order to best serve your use case and to get the most bang for your buck.

What Should You Look for in Word Processing Software?

All this talk about advanced features makes you wonder—what does this functionality actually look like?

You don’t have to settle for the basic features we grew up struggling with. You also don’t have to fork over an arm and a leg to access powerful software that can take your documents so much further!

Team editing documents in ClickUp Docs
Multiple team members editing a document at once in ClickUp Docs

Here is a list of our favorite, must-have features to look for in your next word-processing software:

  • Ease of use: Make sure your software is easy to learn, share with others, and efficiently supports your most-used functions
  • Cloud-based and a reliable offline mode: Things happen! You might lose your wifi connection, need to switch devices, or be asked to share your documents on the spot. Cloud-based software and offline functionality ensure these hurdles won’t pose any real problem
  • Collaboration features: These features make it possible for you to edit and develop documents in real-time with the team! With clarity and without overlap. And consider it a bonus if you can also tag your team or comment on your text
  • Custom permissions and sharing: Especially if you often work with stakeholders, clients, or other departments, it’s important to have the ability to choose who can edit, view, or give access to your work
  • Version history: This is your way of keeping a digital paper trail. Plus, if you make a mistake, you’ll have the power to go back and restore your text
  • Integrations: The more integrations, the more information you can pull into your documents! Plus, it goes both ways, multiple integrations with your chosen word processing software means you can also access your documents from virtually anywhere and from any other tool
ClickUp Docs, Chat, and List view in ClickUp
Create detailed wikis, manage workflows, and collaborate with the team, all from your ClickUp Workspace

The 10 Best Word-Processing Software

There’s no reason why your word-processing software can’t be exciting, dynamic, or collaborative.

Digital editors and document sharing have come a long way in the past decade and we have tons of software to show for that growth! The challenge then becomes finding a tool that’s tailored to your unique needs and aligns with your work style.

So what do you do? You refer back to this list!

We’ve researched and tested the best word-processing software to bring you 10 of our favorites based on their best features, limitations, pricing, ratings, and more!

1. ClickUp

rich formatting and slash commands in clickup docs
ClickUp Docs allows rich formatting and slash commands to work more efficiently

ClickUp is the ultimate all-in-one productivity tool for teams across industries to centralize their work into one collaborative platform. ClickUp is known for its rich set of fully customizable features, including a built-in document editor to create everything from simple to-do lists to detailed wikis, then connect them directly to your workflow.

With the ability to convert text into actionable tasks, embed data from virtually any other work tool, and collaborate on documents in real-time, ClickUp Docs is the ideal word processing tool for teams, students, and enterprise companies alike.

ClickUp best features

  • Advanced word processing and work management features across every pricing plan, even Free Forever
  • Embed media, tables, bookmarks, and even other documents into ClickUp Docs to bring more context and value into your roadmaps and knowledge bases
  • Live detection in ClickUp Docs lets teams edit, contribute, and comment on the same document in real-time
  • Link Docs to tasks and add widgets to automatically update workflows from your document editor
  • Turn highlighted text into action items and delegate them to the team with threaded comments and @mentions
  • Hundreds of templates for any use case, including several created specifically for ClickUp Docs
  • Easy and secure sharing via URL for any guest, collaborator, or even public access
  • Over 1,000 integrations to embed work into ClickUp Docs from virtually anywhere
  • Nested pages and styling options to create visual hierarchies within every Doc

ClickUp cons

  • There can be a bit of an adjustment period learning all of ClickUp’s advanced features
  • Some views are not yet offered on the mobile app

ClickUp pricing

  • Free Forever
  • Unlimited: $5 per user, per month
  • Business: $12 per user, per month
  • Business Plus: $19 per user, per month
  • Enterprise: Contact ClickUp for custom pricing

ClickUp ratings and reviews

  • G2: 4.7/5 (5,680+ reviews)
  • Capterra: 4.7/5 (3,540+ reviews)

2. Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is a powerful word processor for anyone to create Word documents, spreadsheets, emails, and more. It’s part of the Microsoft Office Suite, which makes it easy to integrate with other Microsoft products like Excel and PowerPoint.

Word offers various features to help you stay organized, such as template options for different types of formal documents and advanced editing tools. You can add images, tables, charts, hyperlinks, and other media to enhance the look of your MS Word documents. The program also provides many features to help make creating documents more efficient, such as a spellchecker, auto-corrector, and thesaurus. 

Microsoft Word best features

  • OneDrive storage to save and access documents from anywhere
  • Real-time collaboration to share and edit with others
  • Spelling and grammar checker
  • Mobile app

Microsoft Word limitations

  • Functions on the toolbar are different from version to version
  • Many features of Word forms don’t transfer and cause the format to break when printing documents

Microsoft Word pricing

  • Microsoft Word is available as a standalone version for $159.99 or with a Microsoft 365 subscription

Microsoft Word ratings and reviews

  • Capterra: 4.7/5 (1,600+ reviews)
  • G2: 4.7/5 (1,000+ reviews)

3. Google Docs

Google Docs is an online word processor that makes it easy to create and edit professional documents. With real-time collaboration tools, Google Docs provides a platform for groups of people to collaborate on a single project, ensuring that everyone stays up-to-date with the document’s progress. Features like templated and automated formatting are also available to make your document look professional. 

With Google Docs, users can track changes, comments, and suggestions as they make revisions and edits. All of the documents you create in Google Docs are automatically saved in the cloud, so you can access them from any device at any time. So whether you’re on your desktop or mobile device, you can continue working!

Google Docs best features

  • @Mentions to pull relevant people, files, and events
  • Smart Compose helps you write faster with fewer errors
  • Third-party applications with project management tools
  • Comment replies from Gmail 

Google Docs limitations

  • Limitations on document sizes
  • Not suitable as a scalable knowledge base system 

Google Docs pricing

  • Google Docs is free with a Google account

Google Docs ratings and reviews

  • Capterra: 4.7/5 (27,000+ reviews)
  • G2: N/A

4. Grammarly

Grammarly is an AI-powered writing assistant. It helps you identify and fix grammar, spelling, punctuation, and other writing errors quickly. Grammarly offers suggestions while you’re using desktop apps or websites, including Gmail, ClickUp, LinkedIn, Google Docs, and more!

With Grammarly, you get feedback on your writing in real-time so you can improve it instantly. Plus, with its deep understanding of grammar topics and linguistics, you can trust your next report or project will be polished and professional. Grammarly makes it easy to focus on what’s important—creating strong, compelling content.

Discover the top content collaboration software!

Grammarly best features

  • Style Guide to capture voice and style for consistent documents
  • Text snippets to insert sentences and paragraphs in all workflows
  • Tone Detector for effective communication
  • In-app editor to upload documents

Grammarly limitations

  • Doesn’t work for all apps and websites
  • Expensive monthly subscriptions

Grammarly pricing

  • Free plan
  • Premium: $12/month
  • Business: $15/member per month

Grammarly ratings and reviews

  • Capterra: 4.7/5 (6,000+ reviews)
  • G2: 4.6/5 (1,200+ reviews)

5. WPS Office

WPS Office is a comprehensive office suite that provides you with the tools and features necessary to manage all your documents, files, and presentations efficiently. It supports popular file formats and is compatible with PC and mobile devices. With WPS Office, users can create and edit text documents, spreadsheets, and slide shows in an intuitive and user-friendly interface. 

It also includes powerful document management tools such as colorful themes, annotation, split PDF documents, and file format conversion. The software also has advanced collaboration capabilities that allow multiple users to work on the same file simultaneously. 

WPS Office best features

  • 100,000+ templates organized by categories
  • Multiple language support
  • Text extraction 
  • Watermark creation

WPS Office limitations

  • Limited ability to handle different work styles and preferences
  • A free plan is not available 

WPS Office pricing

  • WPS Premium: $18.99 for 6 months or $29.99 for 1 year
  • WPS Business (WPS Cloud Pro): Starts at $5.99/user per month

WPS Office ratings and reviews

  • Capterra: 4.5/5 (1,200+ reviews)
  • G2: 4.4/5 (200+ reviews)

6. Dropbox Paper

Dropbox Paper offers a simple way to start a project. The drag–and–drop feature allows users to break down complex tasks into easily manageable chunks. By inviting teammates to collaborate on projects, everyone can contribute to the conversation, comment on each other’s work, and brainstorm in real-time. 

The Master Doc feature allows anyone to create a hub for other docs. For complex or long-term projects, organizing documents from the start will boost productivity. It provides you with an efficient way to access and manage all the related documents by creating links to them. You don’t need to spend extra time searching for files. Search or navigate within the master document!

Dropbox Paper best features

  • Search bar to find  publicly viewable docs associated with a team member’s email address
  • Keyboard shortcuts to highlight specific text
  • Custom templates to standard forms
  • Auto-generated table of contents

Dropbox Paper limitations

  • Limitations on file upload sizes in a Dropbox account
  • Basic users can only be signed into three devices at a time

Dropbox Paper pricing

  • Plus: $9.99/month for 1 user
  • Family: $16.99/family per month for up to 6 users
  • Professional: $16.58/month for 1 user
  • Standard: $15/user per month for 3+ users
  • Advanced: $24/user per month for 3+ users
  • Enterprise: Contact Dropbox for pricing 

Dropbox Paper ratings and reviews

  • Capterra: 4.4/5 (100+ reviews)
  • G2: 4.1/5 (4,400+ reviews)

7. Notion

Notion is a document-based workspace for your notes, tasks, documents, and databases. It’s a versatile tool as a word processor to track any information, from project milestones and task reminders to travel plans and personal ideas. 

Notion’s operating system makes it easy to organize whatever you need to keep track of. With its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, you can quickly set up custom workspaces tailored to whatever type of project or goal. Plus, Notion allows you to link between different databases and notes, create checklists, embed media, and more.

Check out the best Notion alternatives!

Notion best features

  • iOS, Windows, web browser, MacOS platforms
  • Calendar, Kanban boards, lists, and gallery views
  • Real-time collaboration
  • Bidirectional linking

Notion limitations

  • Pricey premium plans compared to other word processors on this list
  • Limited project and task management features

Notion pricing

  • Free plan
  • Plus: $8/user per month, billed annually
  • Business: $15/user per month, billed annually
  • Enterprise: Contact Notion for pricing 

Notion ratings and reviews

  • Capterra: 4.7/5 (1,100+ reviews)
  • G2: 4.6/5 (1,000+ reviews)

8. Coda

Coda is a powerful document editor for creating and managing content. With Coda, you can create documents from scratch, edit existing ones, track changes, collaborate with others in real-time, and share them securely. The editor provides a range of tools to help you write fluently and quickly—including text formatting, image editing, tables, and hyperlinks. 

Coda also comes with built-in collaboration features, so you can invite people to join in on projects and discuss changes easily. With its easy-to-use interface and intuitive tools, Coda is a word processor solution for anyone looking to build professional documents!

Coda best features

  • Building blocks to upgrade documents into boards
  • Dashboards to view connected data
  • Google Calendar and Slack integrations
  • Drag-and-drop basic templates

Coda limitations

  • Not scalable as a document database compared to other word processors
  • Limited integrations with other apps 

Coda pricing

  • Free plan
  • Pro: $10/month per Doc Maker, billed annually
  • Team: $30/month per Doc Maker, billed annually
  • Enterprise: Contact Coda for pricing 

Coda ratings and reviews

  • Capterra: 4.6/5 (40+ reviews)
  • G2: 4.7/5 (300+ reviews)

Bonus: Compare Coda Vs. Airtable

9. Evernote

Evernote is an online note-taking application to help you be more productive and organized. With Evernote, you can store anything from text-based notes to images, videos, and audio recordings. You can even add reminders and read web pages offline. Evernote is available for various platforms, including mobile devices. Plus, it has a Web Clipper browser extension!

No matter what type of project you’re working on, Evernote makes managing the details easier. Whether it’s brainstorming new content ideas or planning a business meeting, Evernote gives you the freedom to capture, organize and sync all your information. With features like searchable tags and categories, you’ll have the tools to find what you need, when you need it.

Connect Evernote and ClickUp to manage your notes in one place!

Evernote best features

  • Calendar view to connect schedules and notes
  • Document scanner to go paperless
  • Due dates and reminders functionality
  • Google Calendar integration

Evernote limitations

  • Limited number of saved templates on all plans
  • Evernote Teams account has a shared 30 GB of uploads per month

Evernote pricing

  • Free plan
  • Personal: $6.67/month, billed annually
  • Professional: $9.17/month, billed annually
  • Teams: $14.99/month per user

Evernote ratings and reviews

  • Capterra: 4.4/5 (7,700+ reviews)
  • G2: 4.4/5 (1,900+ reviews)

10. LibreOffice

LibreOffice is a free open source office suite designed to make completing everyday tasks easier. It’s an open-source product, meaning that it’s free and available to all users. LibreOffice includes programs for word processing, presentation building, spreadsheet editing, database manipulation, formula editing, drawing, and more. 

Together these tools provide an intuitive user experience and help individuals create their best work. With LibreOffice, you can develop financial reports, spreadsheets, presentations, and more. If you want more functionality, extensions are available through the LibreOffice repository. 

LibreOffice best features

  • Formula editor to insert mathematical and scientific formulas
  • LanguageTool APIs for grammar checking
  • OpenDocument Format (ODF) extensions
  • Custom templates 

LibreOffice limitations

  • Outdated interface compared to other free word processing programs
  • Not scalable as a long-term document database 

LibreOffice pricing

  • LibreOffice is free

LibreOffice ratings and reviews

  • Capterra: 4.3/5 (1,600+ reviews)
  • G2: 4.3/5 (200+ reviews)

ClickUp—More Than the Average Word Processor

It’s time to ask for more from your word processing software, ClickUp Docs will show you how. 🙂

Edit with the team, turn your thoughts into actionable tasks, and connect your documents directly to your workflow, all without leaving your editor! No other word processor can enhance the value of your documents like ClickUp can. But the best part? ClickUp does it all for free.

Access ClickUp Docs, unlimited tasks, tons of templates and resources, more than 1,000 integrations, and so much more when you sign up for ClickUp today.

What are the best free word processors for the computer? 2020 list

Without a doubt, word processors are truly fundamental tools in the work of many people day after day. Since, they allow you to perform writing tasks as optimally as possible , since more than writing, they provide you with extremely useful functions (spelling correction, image management within documents, headings, tables of contents, etc.).

For this reason, they are considered as the most important tools of office automation, since always. Generally, people turn to Microsoft Word as the word processor, by default. But, as it belongs to the Microsoft Office package, it is inconvenient because is paid and for many, has a very high price .

In this sense, it is worth knowing other alternatives that are clearly free and luckily, today, you can find a large selection of free word processors. So, later, we detail 10 of the best free word processors you can use .

What are the differences between a free word processor and one of payment?

Also known as “word processors” , these programs can be free or paid and for that reason, it is appropriate to state what are the most important distinctions between one and other. Since, beyond the price, they have other differences that must be taken into account when selecting them.

Next, we refer to the main ones:

List of the best free word processors you can install in your computer

Now, it’s time to start with the best alternatives to Microsoft Word that currently exist. Taking into account that, many of these can perfectly replace the functions of the default word processor, that is, Word and most attractive of all, is that you will not have to pay a single euro for these >.

Next, 10 optimal solutions:

Google Docs

Google Docs

It is considered one of the best options to process texts for free and in addition to that, because it offers you the possibility to manage your presentations, forms and files associated with spreadsheets. Additionally, Google Docs has cloud integration that is fully linked to the Google Drive service, in this case.

For its part, it provides options so that you can share the documents made with other users , so that they can access them and thus edit them whenever they like. In other words, it works as a very useful and effective tool when working as a team. It should be noted that, it has options to manage your documents at the Personal level or at the Company level .

Libre Office Writer

Libre Office Writer

This word processor belongs to the office package identified as “Free Office” , which stands out as the best alternative office suite to Microsoft. In that sense, being programmed in Java, it is possible to port it to all operating systems, that is, to Windows and Mac , for example. It even has a mobile app for users of Android and iOS .

Now, regarding the main features of Libre Office Writer, we highlight that it is based on a tool that allows you to design and produce text documents where illustrations, diagrams and tables are included. It also supports many formats (up to the standardized ODF, the recognized .doc and HTML).

Additionally, it has a flexible interface , offers help functions, allows you to export the document in PDF format, etc.

Dropbox Paper

Dropbox Paper

Developed by Dropbox, this tool is a text processor and collaborative software at the same time . Because, it is a solution based on a collaborative document editing service through its web application for computers or through its mobile application with support for Android and iOS. De is based on a digital notebook and document editor.

In this sense, Dropbox Paper provides you three templates so you can create three different kinds of documents, which are: brainstorming, project overview and meeting minutes. However, you can also open a blank document and make your text freely.

Among other features, it is considered a good option to execute teamwork, this being its main foundation; so you can share documents with your contacts and have an option to add comments in real time.

OnlyOffice

OnlyOffice

This is an open source office automation package that you can easily install on your computer and work without relying on the Internet, although it also offers you an option to manage your documents in the cloud. That way, OnlyOffice is compatible with the vast majority of operating systems, such as Windows, Mac OS, Linux and has an app for Android and iPhone available on Google Play Store and App Store, respectively.

For its part, this office suite offers tools for word processing, spreadsheets and presentations . In reference to the first, we highlight that it has a very simple interface to understand, it is fully compatible with the most usual Office formats, provides productivity functions , supports teamwork in order to several users collaborate on the same project, etc.

Microsoft Office Online

Microsoft Office Online

If, above all, you prefer to manage your text files in Microsoft Word, but without paying anything; Microsoft Office Online is the best solution for you . Since, it is a commitment of the company to renew all its services, where it gives you the possibility of using the recognized office suite directly from the web and free . However, you need to stay connected to the Internet while doing your work.

It should be noted that, in this way, it also offers Excel Online, PowerPoint Online and OneNote Online, through “office.com” . But well, in reference to Word Online, to access you will have to register with your Hotmail email address and password . Once you are inside the document, you can choose between making a new one or selecting an available template. Thus, it offers practically all the functions of the classic Word.

Evernote.com

Evernote

At the time of creating texts and annotations, free of charge , this word processing service is one of the most used, nowadays. Which, can be used directly from its official website ( evernote.com ), that is, online; or if you wish, you can download your mobile application for Android, iOS or Windows in order to manage your text files from these devices anywhere.

Now, taking into account its main functions, we highlight that Evernote is based on a free service that provides different functions to its users when making documents. In this way, you have options to edit them easily, store them, add comments, share with other users quickly for greater productivity when it comes to a team project and many other options. In order to use this tool, you need to register on their website.

Authorea

This alternative consists of a complete word processor that is clearly focused on assisting the work of researchers and academics , very effectively. Since it allows them to write documents together, attach references, add figures, data and source code. Like the possibility of entering equations, comments and much more , in a simple way.

For its part, among its best functions, Authorea introduces the collaborative edition so that its users can work on the same document simultaneously and thus obtain the best productivity. It also has the ability to make any document public or totally private, track changes and support automatic citation format . It is appropriate to note that it has more than 40 specific styles.

AbiWord.com

AbiWord

Completely free, this program in Spanish is considered another of the most appropriate word processors when you want to replace the giant Microsoft Word. Thus, it is characterized by taking up little storage space on your computer and consuming few resources, so it loads quickly. Although it seems a bit outdated, the truth is that its interface deceives you and in reality, it is very effective.

Now, AbiWord has the necessary tools to write a good text and these tools are: Spell check, several types of text, supports the main formats (Word, TXT, HTML, RTF, among others), it is very simple to handle, allows to hide the toolbar to work more comfortably and without distractions. It also has the function of insert tables, save documents automatically every minute and support real-time collaboration .

CryptPad.fr

CryptPad

Refers to an office suite in the cloud completely private and secure . Which provides several tools to manage all types of jobs, because has an optimal word processor , as well as the possibility of using presentations, spreadsheet, editing code, conducting surveys, using whiteboard, cryptdrive and other options to facilitate file management. With respect to its word processor, it is completely focused on work teams.

One of its best advantages is that it is responsible for encrypting all the information you enter in the text tool , so that only authorized people enter the content and can collaborate on the. Taking into account other interesting features, we note that it allows you to organize all documents by folders, rename them, copy and paste them in other folders, search quickly , as well as drag and drop to simplify File management.

Nuclino.com

Nuclino

To finalize this list, we refer to this totally free word processor which, although it may be the least recognized of all those mentioned in the post, exhibits a good functioning when doing Documents written on your computer. In this sense, one of its most important features has to do with the possibility that several users collaborate in the documents in real time , being very useful for making annotations or explanations in work meetings.

Among other details, Nuclino allows you to add images in various formats to documents, as well as files, code and even videos. In addition to this, it allows you to manage tasks very easily , it has a simple interface to handle and advanced at the same time, compared to other word processors. In addition, this tool allows you to export information in various formats (even in PDF) .

Word Processing Software

What is word processing software? Word processing software is a tool that allows you to create, write, edit, and manipulate text to create documents. A couple of other word processing features they provide are saving, and printing text documents. Generally, you might work without a spreadsheet or slideshow maker, but ignoring a word processor is quite impossible. In this article, we shall discuss the best free word processing software in the world today.

MS Word

MS Word

1. MS Word

The first and the most commonly used word processing software in the world is Microsoft Word. A free word processing program that enables you to create, edit, format, save and print word documents with convenience. You can turn your word documents into web pages and also save the documents as PDF documents. The most prominent features of MS word are:

  • With text, you can add Pictures, Shapes, and Videos.
  • It offers default templates for Resumes, CVs, Forms, and Letters, etc.
  • Using a mobile application you can use it on Mobile Phones.
  • Documents are easily shareable using emails, pen drives, and Bluetooth as well.
  • You can edit your documents and apply rich formatting.
  • Apply passwords on documents for authorized access.
  • MS Word is supported on many platforms like Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows.

Grammarly

Grammarly

2. Grammarly

Grammarly is an online word processor which allows you to create, and edit documents. The special feature of Grammarly is that it corrects the grammar mistakes, vocabulary, sentence structure, exactly word for word. There are a couple of ways you can use Grammarly by integrating the extension into MS word, or online using a browser.

  • It corrects the grammar mistakes in the document.
  • It can delete contextual mistakes to correct mistakes in the document.
  • Grammarly is intelligent, it is capable of giving genre-specific suggestions.
  • It also teaches grammar learning.
  • It helps you to improve your wiring style.
  • Grammarly is supported on a Web browser and MS word extension.

Google Docs

Google Docs

3. Google Docs

Google docs is a free word processor online web application and very famous online text editor offered by Google for free. Google Doc offers various formatting, editing, and writing features. It also offers templates for resumes, letters, business letters, project proposals, and informal letters for free writing programs. Google docs is so powerful and easy to use that you would feel like using MS word in a web application and say “Another Word For Free.” The features of Google Docs are listed below.

  • Accessible from any device, Phone, Tablet, and computer.
  • Editing can be done anytime from anywhere.
  • Chat and comment features are also available.
  • Google Document can be converted to any other file like word processors file, PDF, and OpenDocument format, etc.
  • Insert images, Drawings, charts, and tables, etc.
  • Supported on every platform: web, iOS, Android, Mac.

CalmlyWriter

CalmlyWriter

4. CalmlyWriter

This one is my personal favorite. CalmlyWriter is free word processing software that gives you open writing software with no distraction. CalmlyWriter gives you a focus mode that highlights the current paragraph in real-time which you are writing. It is simple and easy to use.

  • Full screen with no distraction.
  • Easy to use.
  • Support text formatting like bold, italics, and bullet points, etc.
  • Keyboard shortcuts are also available.
  • Spelling and Grammar checking can be done and Grammarly Extension can also be used.
  • Like MS Word, a word counter is also available.
  • Documents can be exported to PDF files.
  • Can be accessed with the web.

Focus Writer

Focus Writer

5. Focus Writer

Just like CalmlyWriter Focus writer is also one of the word processing programs that give a distraction-less environment to write and edit documents. It shows the option by moving the mouse towards the edge of the screen.  It also gives you the freedom to translate into more than 20 languages of the world. Focus writer feels like a WordPad online without a need to download it.

  • Multiple text formats:
    • Rick Text Format
    • Text format
    • Open document format.
  • Focus writer gives customizable themes.
  • Supported platforms: Linux and Windows.
  • Ti gives complete records and statistics and corrections.

Grammarly Keyboard

Grammarly Keyboard

6. Grammarly Keyboard

It is a free application that provides you real-time grammar correction experience. it is a free word application for android it helps you to write error-free text anywhere using Grammarly Keyboard. It doesn’t matter on what platform you are writing like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, etc.

  • Real-time Spell and punctuation checking.
  • It offers a vast Vocabulary.
  • Using this you can improve your writing and grammar.
  • You can also see the explanations of why the error occurred and how it was removed.
  • It is an application available for both android and iOS.

Conclusion

There are many other applications you can use them like using WordPad online. However, by using these online applications you would not need a WordPad download for your system or cell phone. I hope you would have got an idea of what is a word processor and what is the best word processing software available to use online.

by Vlad Turiceanu

Passionate about technology, Windows, and everything that has a power button, he spent most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world. Coming… read more


Updated on February 9, 2023

  • Word processors are useful productivity devices or software that allow you to create and format text files. 
  • Wordpad is the best choice if you need an offline word processor and you do not want to install any additional software on your Windows 11 OS.
  • If you would rather have an online word processor, a great alternative is Google Docs. 

Windows 11 free word processors

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Windows 11 is a robust operating system, but the OS in itself is not capable of many core functions. Installed software applications bring it to life.

Productivity software like word processors is an essential part of our daily life. They also have become an integral part of a complete workstation. However, with many options to choose from, which word processor should be a must install on Windows 11?

This article introduces you to 5 of the best Windows 11 free word processors. You also learn why they might be the best free options for you.

What is a word processor?

Word processors are devices or software that allow you to create, print, or edit documents. These tools will transform commands given from a keyboard to electronic visual forms.

Several word processors are delivered via cloud services or installations on mobile devices or PCs.

Choosing the one that fits your needs will of course depend on the exact circumstances you find yourself in, and also your personal preference.

Does Windows 11 have a free Word Processor?

MS Word is the more common Windows word processor, but the free Wordpad comes with every recent Windows OS.

Even though Windows 11 upgrade is free on all PCs as long as they meet the minimum requirements for the Windows 11 installation, you need a subscription for apps like Excel, Powerpoint, and Word.

What are the best word processors to use on Windows 11?

WPS Office

Windows 11 free word processors

If you ever used Microsoft Word, then there would be no learning curve with WPS Office free writer. This app comes as a suite, including WPS Writer, WPS Presentation, and WPS Spreadsheet, but the writer is free.

It feels and behaves like a premium Word installation, and you will have free 1GB of cloud storage. You will find its repertoire of pre-installed templates convenient for creating various documents. It also gives the option for you to create your custom-made templates.

Suppose you work across different platforms or share files among friends and colleagues. In that case, you will find that it is compatible with several text file formats, including legacy editions of MS Word going as far back as Office 97.

The advertisements may be a drawback as you will find them distracting, but purchasing a premium version ensures you can work advert free.

The WPS Office team has now launched a complimentary word to pdf converter. This addition makes WPS Office Writer even more desirable.

WPS Office

Take advantage of the wide range of easy-to-use features that WPS Office has to offer today!

LibreOffice

Windows 11 free word processors

This word processor is an offshoot of Apache’s OpenOffice and has a team of eager coders who are given their talent for free. Libre office writer comes with the Libre office suite that is free. You will find it to be versatile and feature-rich.

In addition to the offline writer, you will find the interoperability among its Calc (spreadsheets), Impress (presentations), Draw (vector graphics), Math (mathematical formulae), and Base (databases) services advantageous.

It is excellent for collaborating across teams since you can share documents across Microsoft Word users without any compatibility issues. It also supports DOCX, PPTX, PPT, and other formats.

Compared to Microsoft Office, its template repertoire feels limited, but it makes up for this with a massive reserve of downloadable options on its project online library. Using plugins, you can also expand its features to include more language packs and grammar tools.

This free word processor for Windows 11 allows the liberty of choosing between a traditional toolbar and icon interface and a notebook bar similar to the 2007 MS office.

Some PC issues are hard to tackle, especially when it comes to missing or corrupted system files and repositories of your Windows.
Be sure to use a dedicated tool, such as Fortect, which will scan and replace your broken files with their fresh versions from its repository.

⇒ Get LibreOffice

WordPad

Windows 11 free word processors

Wordpad unlike the other word processors on this list does not have a suite of applications, but it has the one important advantage of not needing to be installed. It has been part of every Windows operating system since Windows 95.

It is somewhat of a watered-down version of Microsoft Word, but still very effective for creating basic documents as well as opening rich text documents and files that are created using other programs not installed on your computer.

Documents created with Wordpad can be exported in several formats including Rich Text Format (RTF). This format is generic for rich texts including bolds, custom fonts, bullets, etc. It is also compatible with DOCX formats, hence, it is a good alternative if you must work with Microsoft Word documents. It also offers compatibility for files created with Libre office.

Finally, unlike most of the word processors discussed, it has a free version and no paid options.

⇒ Get WordPad

Read more about this topic

  • 3 Easiest Ways to Change File Type on Windows 11
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  • Netwtw10.sys Blue Screen Error: 4 Ways to Fix It
  • How to Enable & Disable Fingertip Writing in Windows 11

FreeOffice

Windows 11 free word processors

This Windows 11 compatible word processor offers a wide range of options for easy editing of Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, and Word files. It is also a handy tool for exporting files in pdf and EPUB.

It comes with a small selection of easy-to-use templates, but you will be able to create additional custom-made templates.

FreeOffice TextMaker packs most features you will expect in a modern word processor including a feature for managing doc changes during collaboration, advanced options for formatting text, a feature for creating databases for managing footnotes and bibliographies.

The most easily noticeable drawback of the free version of FreeOffice TextMaker is an inability to save files in DOCX formats. You will need a paid version for this feature.

⇒ Get FreeOffice TextMaker

FocusWriter

Windows 11 free word processors

From the name of this free Windows 11 compatible word processor, you can deduce that it is built to help you focus more while writing. It is packed with tools to make you maximize your work productivity without distraction.

By default, it only displays a blank page, and the toolbar options will only appear after you move the mouse to the screen edge. This word processor goes the extra mile of fading all features except for the current paragraph, or sentence.

Users can also set alerts for different goals including word count. It does not have all the great editing features of most word processors discussed, but none come close in productivity.

⇒ Get FocusWriter

Are there good online word processor alternatives?

In this article, you’ve been introduced to word processors that work offline, requiring an installation on your operating system. If you prefer not to have app installations, there are several online solutions.

One of the most robust of the lot is Google Docs. It comes as part of a free Google Editors suite that also includes Slides, Sheets, Forms, Keep, and Google Sites.

This list has not been written in any particular order. Let me know in the comments which of these word processors you prefer.

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