Microsoft Word Online
Available for any operating system.
Sharing and collaboration features similar to Google Docs.
Multiple templates to choose from.
Export to DOCX or PDF.
Lacks some features of the desktop version.
‘Upgrade’ buttons sprinkled throughout to advertise advanced features.
Word Online offers an almost-full version of the popular word processor in a online window window.
Of all the options in this list, this one looks the most like the traditional version of Word.
Your documents can also be embedded directly in your website.
Microsoft Word Mobile App
Runs on Android and iOS.
Surprising number of features for a mobile app.
Works with Apple Vision Pro.
LibreOffice
Typing on a small screen can be difficult.
Edits and new creates limited to devices smaller than 10.1 inches.
Another way to use Word files for free is through Microsoft’s mobile app.
With just three menu buttons, the app is free from clutter and fairly simple to understand.
The app is more than just a document viewer.
The Microsoft Word app is free for Android and iOS.
Microsoft 365 Free Trial
Store documents online to sync and share between devices.
Unrestricted access to the Microsoft Office suite.
A credit card is required.
Automatically renews if you don’t cancel the trial.
For this, Microsoft offers a free trial of Microsoft 365 Family.
The trial includes the complete version of Word for up to six people across various platforms and multiple devices.
The free trial lasts 30 days and requires a valid payment method.
Microsoft charges a yearly fee if you don’t cancel the subscription.
LibreOffice Writer
LibreOffice
Completely free.
Looks like the classic version of Word.
Small prompt and dialog menu text.
Must roll out the whole suite just to use Writer.
Collaborative Editing is under development.
Several options are available when you’re ready to save a document.
WPS Writer
Downloadable templates.
Clean and simple interface with tabs for organization.
Some features have limited usage until you pay.
Several ‘upgrade’ buttons advertise pro-level features.
WPS Writer (formerly Kingsoft Writer) is another multi-platform word processor.
Right off the bat, you’ll notice the polished user interface.
They include a chatbot and a text generator that’s perfect for writing inspiration.
You’ll also get document encryption features, PDF exporting, and document translations with a neat side-by-side view.
Several features appear free but you’ll need to pay to access them, including PDF editing.
Google Docs
Save documents to the cloud and access from all devices.
Real-time collaboration with detailed tracking of changes.
Built-in AI features for summarization and text generation.
Access to free add-ons for additional features.
Offline editing requires a net internet ride extension.
Fewer features than similar desktop programs.
Google Docs is a full-featured word processorcompatible with Word files like DOCX and DOTM.
Docs allows for seamless document collaboration with several users.
A unique feature in Google Docs is direct access toGemini, the company’s AI tool.
Use it to create outlines, brainstorm ideas, build lists, and more.
Docs is net online gate-based on a computer and works through an app for Android and iOS.
