Forget to buy Microsoft Office for your new computer right before the big prom? We've all been there before.
Fortunately, we've got three free alternatives that should get you through the night.
1.
Open Office If you're looking for a similar experience to Microsoft Office, Open Office is just your thing.
This suite is the most comprehensive office software available for zero dollars.
It includes everything a standard office user needs.
A word processor, spreadsheet editor, presentation editor, database, and even a drawing tool for diagrams are all incorporated into a solid piece of software.
Our only beef with Open Office is its outdated interface.
It still kinda looks like it was made in the early 90's.
This is obviously a minor criticism and if spiffy graphics and a colorful interface don't bother you, Open Office is a very good choice.
2.
Google Docs Google Docs is a relatively new office suite that's been launched to compete with Microsoft.
This Google suite includes a word processor, spreadsheet and presentation editors.
Unfortunately, Google Docs do not provide a database or diagram editor like Open Office does.
In the beginning you could only work on documents online.
This has since been remedied with Google Gears.
In addition, you're also given the ability to share and collaborate on your documents with other people.
This can be a necessity for teams and some companies.
3.
Zoho Like Google Docs, Zoho is very similar to Google Docs.
It allows for online collaboration and sharing with group members.
Unlike Google Docs, Zoho offers a host of other office tools, such as a note taker, wiki page and project management software.
Depending on your needs, these three office suites should make for a comparable alternative to Microsoft Office.
They're a great way to save a few (hundred) dollars in crazy economic times, especially when you need to save money for a tux!