Free word processor RoughDraft works with RTF and TXT files, provides automatic spell check, and allows shortcut keys from nearly every command. WriteMonkey Jarte. When we talk about an online free word processor application, there is one program that is probably the best replacement for Microsoft’s MS Office. Google happens to have the solution to everything and this is probably the best solution for anyone that likes cloud storage and online word processor programs as Google Docs provides both. The Best Free Word Processing Software app downloads for Mac: Apache OpenOffice FormulatePro Microsoft Word Plain Text Editor Final Draft EndNote NFOV. Writer - Free Word Processor for Mac Before Google Docs, the leading free competitor to Word was LibreOffice’s Writer. It’s still around, it’s still free, and, well, that’s about it. Writer is a decent open-source word processor that, for the most part, has been replaced by other options.
- Free Word Processing For Mac Download
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Although Mac users may have had difficulty with Microsoft Word in the past, it seems that the processor is now one of the best options for Apple machines. Microsoft Word for Mac offers full. 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.
The Best Free Word Processing Software app downloads for Mac: Apache OpenOffice FormulatePro Microsoft Word Plain Text Editor Final Draft EndNote NFOV.
A good word processor is one of the few pieces of software you simply can't live without. You might be able to manage without a spreadsheet tool or something for making slideshows, but text documents are unavoidable. Thankfully, you don't need to splash out on a full Microsoft Office subscription; there are some superb word processors available to download and use completely free.
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.
Google Docs is the most obvious choice, 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, and any online tool is going to be surrounded by distractions like social media.
If you'd prefer an offline word processor, read on – the perfect one is only a click away.
1. WPS Office Free
A word processor with cloud storage and support for all text files
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 as well, which is a great companion to its word processor.
2. LibreOffice or Apache OpenOffice
All-singing, all-dancing word processors for any text-based work
LibreOffice is a fork of Apache OpenOffice, and although there are some differences between the two suites (LibreOffice receives more frequent updates, for example, and has a more lively userbase), their word processing components are so similar, we’re listing them together.
Both versions of Writer are feature-packed analogs of Microsoft Word, packed with all the features you could possibly 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.
3. FocusWriter
The ideal word processor for first drafts, with no fussy formatting
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 suitable for editing, but for productivity, FocusWriter is hard to beat.
4. SoftMaker FreeOffice
Another great looking word processor, but watch your file formats
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, which retails for £48.20 (about US$60, AU$75).
5. Writemonkey
Productivity-focused word processing with quick shortcuts
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 tricker 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.
These free word processors can be a great alternative to Microsoft Word. Many have very similar characteristics to Word and since they're free, you'll be saving hundreds of dollars by using one of them.
All of the free word processors below can create, edit, and print documents. Many of them can open and edit Word documents, automatically check your spelling, use a wide selection of free MS Word templates, create tables and columns, and much more.
Our top picks for a free word processor are at the top of the list. These have the most features and we suggest checking these out first to see if they'll fit your word processing needs. You should find that most of them can handle just about everything Microsoft Word can.
Free Word Processors Alternatives to MS Word
If you're looking for a free word processor that doesn't require a download, check out this list of free online word processors for only word processors you can access from anywhere you have an internet connection.
All of these word processor programs are 100 percent freeware, which means that you won't ever have to purchase the program, uninstall it after so-many days, donate a small fee, purchase add-ons for basic functionality, etc. The word processor tools below are free to download at no cost.
WPS Office's Writer
What We Like
Features a tabbed interface for better document management.
Includes 1 GB of cloud storage.
Free templates built in.
What We Don't Like
The whole suite has to be downloaded to use Writer.
WPS Office (previously called Kingsoft Office) is a suite that includes a word processor, called Writer, that's easy to use because of its tabbed interface, clean design, and uncluttered menu.
Spell check is performed automatically as you would expect to be done in a good word processor. You can easily toggle spell check on and off from the menu at the bottom.
Writer supports full-screen mode, dual page layout, and the option to hide the menus, which makes for a perfect distraction-free writing experience. There's even a viewing mode to protect against eye damage, turning the background of the page into a greenish color.
You can also add custom dictionaries, read/write to popular file types, create a cover page and table of contents, use built-in templates, encrypt documents, and easily view all the pages of a document from a side pane.
Writer is part of the WPS Office software, so you have to download the whole suite to get the Writer portion. It runs on Windows, Linux, and mobile devices (iOS and Android).
TextMaker From FreeOffice
What We Like
Several neat features.
Opens and saves to common file formats.
Great for making eBooks.
Automatic spell check is included.
Free for home and business use.
What We Don't Like
Relatively large download size.
Must download the whole suite of programs even if you'll just install the word processor.
SoftMaker FreeOffice is a suite of office programs, and one of the included tools is a free word processor called TextMaker.
Immediately after opening this word processor for the first time, you're given the option to choose a classic menu style or use a ribbon menu you might already be familiar with. The choice is yours, and there's even a touch mode option you can turn on.
Menu options are organized logically, and beyond the normal word processor features are ones for eBook-making, like PDF and EPUB exporting, chapter creation, and footnotes.
This free word processor can also preview documents before opening them, track changes, insert comments, add objects such as Excel charts and PowerPoint slides, and use shapes, among many other things.
TextMaker can open a huge variety of document file types, including ones from Microsoft Word, OpenDocument files types, plain text, WRI, WPD, SXW, PWD, and others. When you're ready to save, this word processor exports to popular formats like DOCX, DOTX, HTML, and TXT, as well as file formats specific to this program (e.g., TMDX and TMD).
TextMaker has to be downloaded as part of FreeOffice, but during installation, you can choose to install the whole suite or just the free word processor program. It runs on Windows 10, 8, 7, or Windows Server 2008. Mac 10.10 and higher is supported, too, as well as Linux.
OpenOffice Writer
What We Like
Works with lots of file formats.
Extensions and templates are supported.
Checks for spelling errors automatically.
Includes advanced and basic formatting options.
There's a portable option available.
What We Don't Like
You have to download the whole program suite even to use just Writer.
Might take a while to download on slow internet connections.
The interface and menus are dull and cluttered.
OpenOffice Writer has all the necessary features to make it on any list of good word processors. Plus, there's a portable option so you can use the program on the go with a flash drive.
Automatic spell check is included, as well as support for a huge variety of popular file types, the ability to add notes to the side of any document, and easy-to-use wizards for creating documents such as letters, faxes, and agendas.
A side menu pane lets you quickly switch between editing page properties, styles, and formatting to adding images from the gallery. You can even undock these settings so that you can have more room for writing but still have simple access to important tools.
Similar to WPS Office, below, you must download the whole OpenOffice suite to your computer even if you're just installing Writer. With the portable option, you have to actually install the entire office suite even if you just want to use the Writer tool.
WordGraph
What We Like
Includes unique advanced features.
Has a spell check.
You can download it apart from its whole suite.
Downloads and installs quickly.
What We Don't Like
Spell check doesn't work automatically.
The interface can be distracting.
WordGraph includes most of the standard features you'd find in any word processor, but it also has some unique tools.
In addition to adding things like graphics, charts, tables, and illustrations to a document, WordGraph can also produce PDFs, create a table of contents and index, and access files stored on online storage services like OneDrive and Dropbox.
While a spell check utility is included, it doesn't work in live mode, which means you must manually run it to check for spelling mistakes.
Unlike the two programs from above, you can download WordGraph on its own without having to download the SSuite Office software that it belongs to.
AbleWord
What We Like
Easy to use with a clean and uncluttered UI.
Lets you find spelling errors in your writing.
Popular formatting options are supported.
Can open and save to popular file formats.
What We Don't Like
Hasn't been updated since 2015.
Spell check isn't automatic.
Limited open/save file format options.
AbleWord opens documents quickly, has a really simple design, and supports editing and saving to popular file types. It's very easy to use and looks really nice.
There isn't much that makes AbleWord stand out among similar software except that it's not bogged down with unnecessary buttons or confusing features and settings, and you can use it to import PDF text into the document.
Spell check is built in but you have to run it manually because it doesn't find errors automatically.
This program hasn't been updated since 2015, so it probably won't be updated again any time soon, or ever, but it's still fully usable today as a free word processor.
AbiWord
What We Like
Spell check is automatic.
Supports automatic saving.
Lets you collaborate with others in real time.
Works with lots of file types.
Supports plugins.
What We Don't Like
Print preview isn't as easy to use as it is in similar programs.
Doesn't have a modern interface.
AbiWord is a free word processor with automatic spell check and common formatting options. The menus and settings are organized well and aren't cluttered or confusing to use.
You can share documents with others and have the changes reflected automatically, making live, real-time collaboration possible.
Common file types work with AbiWord, like ODT, DOCM, DOCX, and RTF.
During setup, you can enable or disable all sorts of extra features, like an equation editor, grammar checker, web dictionary, Google Search and Wikipedia integrator, translators, and file format support for DocBook, OPML, ClarisWorks, and others.
One downside to this program is that the print preview feature isn't like most programs in that you have to open the preview as an image in a photo viewer, which isn't supplied with AbiWord.
Jarte
What We Like
Customize the layout a number of ways.
Can be set up to auto-save every so often.
Opens documents in tabs.
Supports common document formats.
Small setup file.
There's a portable option available.
What We Don't Like
Must run spell check manually.
Could be hard to use.
No update since 2018.
Jarte is another free word processor that has a tabbed interface to keep all open documents easily accessible on one screen.
Common file types are supported, you can set Jarte to automatically save a document from every minute to every 20 minutes, and you can install several spell check dictionaries during setup.
Install twisted windows. Jarte can be configured to automatically open the last file you were using upon launching the program, which is a nice option that most of the other software from this list doesn't allow.
Unfortunately, the spell check feature isn't automatic, and the program itself is sometimes confusing to grasp.
WriteMonkey
What We Like
Completely portable (no installation necessary).
Features a very minimal interface.
Includes spell check.
Supports plugins.
What We Don't Like
Hasn't been updated since 2014.
Spell check isn't automatic.
WriteMonkey is a portable word processor that's centered around providing an interface with the least number of distractions as possible so that you can focus on writing and nothing else.
Every menu option in WriteMonkey is only shown if you right-click the document. From there, you can do everything from format text or check the spelling to open the preferences, create bookmarks, insert symbols, manage profiles, and lots more.
Although spell check is available, it's not automatic, which means you must open the utility manually to check for errors.
RoughDraft
What We Like
Supports automatic spell check.
Tabbed browsing helps organize open documents.
Lets you use shortcut keys.
What We Don't Like
Very outdated.
Supports a limited number of file formats.
Another free word processor, this one advertised for creative writers, is RoughDraft. It works with RTF, TXT, and DOC (from Word 2010–97) files, provides automatic spell check, allows shortcut keys for nearly every command, and lets you switch between various writing modes — Normal, Screenplay, Stage/Radio Play, and Prose.
It's simple to open and edit files from your computer because of the file browser that's open on the side of the program window. New documents appear in their own tab so that you can keep up to 100 files open in RoughDraft at the same time.
One of the downsides to this word processor is that the last version came out in 2005, making it highly unlikely that you'll get new features in the future. Also, while the DOC file format is supported, the file has to have been created in Word 2010 or older.
FocusWriter
What We Like
Provides multiple ways to create a distraction-free interface.
Colors and layouts can be customized.
Goals can be created to stay on task.
There's a portable option.
What We Don't Like
Can't open documents with rich text formatting.
FocusWriter is similar to WriteMonkey in that it's portable and has a minimal interface. The program automatically hides the menus and any buttons from being viewed, and you can run it in full-screen mode so that you don't see any other program windows.
Basic formatting is allowed in FocusWriter, like bold, strikethrough, and aligning text. You can also edit the foreground and background text, page margins, color, and line spacing to produce custom themes.
You can open and save documents to popular formats like DOCX, ODT, RTF, and TXT. However, documents with rich text formatting might import into FocusWriter in plain text and become completely unusable.
FocusWriter includes an alarm and lets you set goals regarding your typing, like to type a particular number of words or to type for a certain number of minutes per day.
Another advantage this program has over some of the other free word processors in this list is that it gets updated far more often, so you can be sure that new features and/or security updates are released as often as they need to be.
Judoom
What We Like
Supports tabbed browsing.
Makes project tracking easy.
Works with the two most popular MS Word file formats.
What We Don't Like
It's missing several features common in a Word processor.
Word counter doesn't update automatically as you type.
Free Word Processing For Mac Download
Judoom has a similar look and feel to Microsoft Word, and you can even use some of the same file types, like DOC and DOCX.
It's easy to keep track of projects because you can add up to two at a time and easily browse through local files and folders from a side menu. Any new documents that are opened are kept in their own tabs to keep everything closely together but organized at the same time.
While it's easy to use and has a clean look to it, Judoom doesn't include common features that you'll normally find in a word processor, like spell check, headers/footers, and page numbers.
Free Word Processing Software
Free Word Processing For Mac Air
AEdit
What We Like
Protect documents with a password.
Spell check is included.
Lets you edit unique document file formats.
Installs in seconds.
What We Don't Like
Doesn't open DOCX files.
Saves to just a few basic file formats.
Spell check isn't automatic.
Very outdated.
AEdit has a bit of an outdated interface since the development team abandoned the software and haven't released an update since 2001, but it still works just fine for a word processor.
AEdit lets you password protect documents and provides a spell check function, though it doesn't check for errors automatically.
The free AEdit word processor works with files in Microsoft's popular DOC format but not their newer DOCX format. You can also open 123, BAT, ECO, HTML, RTF, TXT, and XLS files.
However, when you save a document with AEdit, your options are limited to ECO, RTF, TXT, and BAT.
Free Trial of Microsoft Office
Free Word Processing For Macbook Pro
If you can't find a word processor that you're happy with, consider taking advantage of the free trial of Microsoft Office so that you can get the full capabilities of Microsoft Word for a whole month.