At some point, we all have to create a resume, write an essay, or type up a letter on our computers. One of the most popular programs we use is Microsoft Word. If you are a PC user, it comes preloaded on your device, so there’s no hassle and it’s easy to boot up.

If you use a Mac, there are ways to download it from Microsoft’s online market or purchase the hard copy of the program from basically any major retailer. For some of us, though, Microsoft Word just isn’t a good fit. Luckily, there are alternatives to using this program. You don’t have to sacrifice your needs – or even your computer’s memory – to use a program that’s more suitable for you. Here is our 5 free word processing alternatives to Microsoft Word.

FreeOffice 2016

SoftMaker’s FreeOffice 2016 supports all of the same file types as Microsoft Word, which allows for a fluid transition if you choose to switch programs. It seems to be perfect for the person who doesn’t want to work with Word, but still wants to work with the same type of software.

FreeOffice also has security options for those who have a need for password-protected files. Currently, FreeOffice is not compatible with MacOS, but if your device is running Linux, Windows or Android, it’s a viable option for you.

KOffice Words

KOffice’s Words is another open-source alternative. Unlike other options, Words includes KOffice’s own data platform, Kexi, which is similar to Microsoft’s data platform, Access. Although it isn’t exceptionally pleasing to the eye, Words has a lot to offer – from a customizable user interface and various formatting options.

KOffice also allows you to download their programs separately if you choose to do so, whereas many other software platforms are all-or-nothing. Words is available for MacOS, Linux and Windows.

LibreOffice

LibreOffice is probably the closest you can get to Microsoft Word without being Microsoft Word. It’s so close to the Microsoft software that they had the create a graph to tell you the difference. The program allows you to transfer files from Word easily without fear of losing any of your data.

LibreOffice has basically taken note of all the things Word could improve on and created its own program, while also improving parts of Word that people love. The program is updated often and sends out notifications of any changes, so you are always working with the most up-to-date version. The software is available for download for MacOS, Linux and Windows.

OpenOffice Writer

One of the big contenders in alternatives to Word is Apache’s OpenOffice Writer. For an open-source platform, OpenOffice Suite is pretty sturdy.

Writer has much of the same options as and looks somewhat like Word as far as appearances are concerned, but depending on what task you are trying to accomplish, some formatting options may be a bit different. If you are comfortable configuring some settings, Writer is an ideal option as an alternative.

Google Docs

If speed and ease-of-access are vital to you, and you hate waiting for a program to boot up, Google Docs should be on your list. Unlike the aforementioned programs, you don’t have to download Google Docs, as it is web-based.

As long as you are connected to wifi, you are able to edit your files as needed. There is also an ‘offline mode’ for when an internet connection isn’t available, however this mode does come with limited editing options. Your files are saved to Google Drive, which is linked to your Google account. Through mobile apps, you are able to view, edit, and save all of your files from virtually anywhere.

If you feel the need to change up your word processing platform, or simply don’t want to sacrifice your wallet for a licensed program, these alternatives are all great options in their own way.