Don't Pay for These 7 PC Software!

People pay for software when it's worth it. The problem is that many software categories aren't worth the price tag. Whether it's a one-time purchase or a subscription, here are 7 types of PC software you shouldn't pay for!

 

7. PC Cleanup Tools

There are a lot of shady PC cleaning apps out there. But even for legitimate PC cleaning tools, you shouldn't pay a dime. This is because Windows already includes the core tools ( Disk Cleanup and Storage Sense ) you need to clean your system.

There's no need to pay anything to clean up your PC. Instead, follow our quick Windows cleanup guide, then set up automatic PC cleanups so you don't have to spend time on it in the future.

6. Antivirus software

 

Security suites are one of those subscriptions that people often pay for. Windows has strong built-in protection, and the paid versions of these tools don't add core malware protection. Instead, they're bundled with tools like VPNs and password managers.

5. File compression tool

Paying for WinRAR is one of the longest running online jokes. This file compression and extraction tool has a reputation for being a paid app with an endless trial that never forces you to pay. There is no reason not to pay for WinRAR or any similar tool.

 

Windows has native support for decompressing many compressed file formats.

4. Driver update tool

It's important to keep your core drivers up to date, but driver update tools aren't the best way to do it. They're notorious for downloading the wrong drivers, installing them incorrectly, or creating similar problems that are worse than having outdated drivers.

Instead, let Windows Update install basic driver updates, use AMD software, update your GPU, and run the motherboard utility for core system drivers. No need to pay and less risk of something going wrong.

3. Note taking application

Paid note-taking tools have some value to some people, but others feel the need to use them.

 

I spent all four years of college with OneNote, only using a fraction of its capabilities, and never felt the need to upgrade to something more powerful. Apps like Goodnotes look great, but they aren't for everyone.

2. PDF Tools

The paid version of Nitro PDF is useful for heavy PDF editing. But many have also realized there are free tools to handle any editing you need.

Some people may need to pay for a PDF editing tool if they work with them all day. But for the needs of the average user, it's not worth it.

1. AI tools

People sometimes use AI tools to help with ideas or when they can't find answers elsewhere online, but many people aren't interested in creating AI images, using AI to do work, or don't want to spend time with these tools.

Many people don't like AI being pushed into everything. Because it sometimes provides convincing false information, causing serious consequences if users use it irresponsibly.