What is the best software to use in place of MS Office

[gamerguy319]

I am building my own gaming computer, but off the bat I wont be able to afford MSs Office. Are there any programs that do the job just as well but free?

 

[Sunius]

Libre Office is great!

 

[Hawkeye22]

^+1 for Libre.

http://www.libreoffice.org/

Open Office is just a step behind libre office.

http://www.openoffice.org/

 

[skaz]

+2 for Libre Office.

Google docs (aka drive) is pretty convenient though at times.

 

[robey]

I am building my own gaming computer, but off the bat I wont be able to afford MSs Office. Are there any programs that do the job just as well but free?

All previously mentioned options are great and will get the job done.

LibreOffice
OpenOffice
Google Docs/Drive (Web Application)

or Calligra Suite is a new, Modern Looking, addition to the line-up of MS alternatives

http://www.calligra-suite.org/

Robey

 

[The Stealthinator]

^+1 for Libre.

http://www.libreoffice.org/

Open Office is just a step behind libre office.

http://www.openoffice.org/

What difference is there between Libre and Open office?

 

[skaz]

Development either slowed or stopped for openoffice after it was bought by oracle/sun I believe, so the main guys behind it moved over and created LibreOffice.

I'd like to update my original post as well. I have recently taken a course in the study of Microsoft Office 2010 and was "forced" to purchase a copy for the course. I have to say, it was well worth the price tag. Can't say the new price model for 2013 is, as I'm not a big fan of subscription based systems. But 2010 is awesome. If you can find it on discount I highly recommend picking it up.

Besides the normal applications bundled in the suite, OneNote took me by surprise. I can't live without now for any heavy work. Really hope MS reconsiders their pricing model for 2013.

 

[gamerguy319]

Best answer selected by rolar.

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

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