Here are our favorite alternatives to the default Windows applications.
Why Change the Built-in Windows Apps?
Why move away from using built-in Windows apps?
They’re a great way to get more out of your experience.
And the best part is that you don’t have to uninstall the old Windows apps.
you’re free to simply start using them, perhaps changing file associations if need be.
Don’t like them?
Just switch back or try a new alternative.
Our suggested apps work great on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Finally, two quick notes before we dive in.
First, all of our suggested alternatives are free to use unless noted otherwise.
Between Windows versions, there have been some odd naming choices (and even outright software replacements).
Related:Stop Using Notepad
But we have prettystrong opinions around here about Notepad.
And if you’re using Notepad as a catch-all note-taking system, seriously consider looking atOneNote.
File Search: Everything
Windows file search is slow.
Really, agonizingly, slow.
It’s a Windows file search alternative that uses file tables to perform lightning-fast file and folder searches.
It’s so fast the first time you use it you’ll be startled by the speed.
File Explorer: OneCommander
There’s nothing wrong with the basic Windows file explorer.
In those situations, you needan upgraded file manager.
OneCommanderis like Windows file explorer on steroids.
If there’s a useful way to view and organize files there’s a good chance OneCommander has it.
It’s a powerful tool for people who do serious work with their files.
Even with the upgrades to the file copy function over the years it’s still lackluster.
You’re stuck starting the process and just sorta hoping it completes properly without any hangups.
Never get stuck wondering where things went wrong or if the little progress bar will ever move, again.
The interface has received a few updates over the years, but there’s nothing 21st-century looking about it.
But don’t let that fool you.
InfranView is an absolute workhorse.
It will load dozens of image formats lightning fast.
It’ll even play a pile of music formats too.
you’re able to even load live streams in, watch DVD videos, and more.
It’s like a video and music codec Rosetta Stone, ready to play whatever you have lying around.
It really isthe Swiss Army Knife of media players.
It’ll get the job done.
But don’t let that put you off.
And for free-as-in-beer options, check out some lighter alternatives likeFlameshotandGreenshot.
Disk Cleanup: CCleaner
Over the years, the built-in Windows Disk Cleanup tools have matured remarkably.
From Windows XP to Windows 11, Disk Cleanup has gone from “That’s it?”
to “That’s not bad.”
If you’d like to check out another free option, do take a peek atAquaSnap.
Related:What’s the Best Antivirus for Windows 10 and 11?
(Is Microsoft Defender Good Enough?)
We give ithigh marks all around, especially in themalware/PUP removal department.
This is where Team Viewer really shines.
If you’re a one-person tech support operation, you need it.
Related:The Best Free Apps for Your Windows PC
