Our verdict: FreeOffice is a compact office suite that handles Word, Excel and PowerPoint files well and is free for business use too. You choose between ribbons and classic menus. It is closed source, and SoftMaker uses it to promote its paid SoftMaker Office.
About SoftMaker FreeOffice
FreeOffice is made by the German company SoftMaker. FreeOffice 2024 contains three programs: the word processor TextMaker, the spreadsheet PlanMaker and Presentations. Each one opens and saves the matching Microsoft Office formats.
The interface can be switched between modern ribbons and classic menus with toolbars, and a touch mode adds larger icons for tablets. SoftMaker also offers free mobile versions of the three apps for Android and iOS.
What it does well
- Three core apps. TextMaker for documents, PlanMaker for spreadsheets and Presentations for slides.
- Microsoft Office formats. Works with Word, Excel and PowerPoint files without conversion steps.
- Ribbons or menus. Switch between a ribbon interface and classic menus and toolbars.
- Touch mode. Larger icons and wider spacing for touchscreen PCs.
- USB flash drive install. A bundled tool copies FreeOffice and your documents to a USB stick.
Who it is for
Good fit
Home and office users who want a light Microsoft Office replacement, including businesses.
Look elsewhere
People who need a database, a drawing app or open-source software.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free for personal and business use
- Good Microsoft Office file compatibility
- Choice of ribbons or classic menus
- Portable copy on a USB stick
Cons
- Closed source
- Only three apps: no database or drawing program
- Promotes the paid SoftMaker Office suite
How to install SoftMaker FreeOffice
The download is a standard MSI installer for Windows; double-click it to install. If setup fails with error 2502 or 2503, SoftMaker's support page explains how to fix the permissions of the Windows Temp folder. On first start you choose between the ribbon and the classic menu interface.
Questions about SoftMaker FreeOffice
Is SoftMaker FreeOffice free?
Yes. FreeOffice 2024 is free for both personal and business use.
Can FreeOffice open Word and Excel files?
Yes. TextMaker, PlanMaker and Presentations open and save Word, Excel and PowerPoint files.
Can I run FreeOffice from a USB stick?
Yes. After installing it on your PC, use the Start menu entry Install SoftMaker FreeOffice on a USB flash drive.
