Cost / License
- Freemium
- Proprietary
Platforms
- Mac
+8
Microsoft Word Alternatives
Microsoft Word is one of the most widely used word processors, known for document editing, formatting, collaboration, and AI-assisted writing. Still, many users look for alternatives—often because of cost, licensing, or platform preferences.
On this page, you’ll find Microsoft Word alternatives that cover a wide range of needs. Some focus on being open source, others on strong real-time collaboration, and many work across platforms like Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can use the filters to narrow the list based on what matters most to you.
If you prefer a free and open solution, LibreOffice Writer and ONLYOFFICE are popular choices, offering desktop apps and good Microsoft Word file compatibility. For users who mainly work in a browser, Google Docs emphasizes easy sharing and live co-editing without installing anything. Privacy-focused users may want to explore Proton Docs, which stores documents with end-to-end encryption.
Word alternatives generally fall into two groups: offline desktop editors for working without an internet connection, and cloud-based editors designed for teams collaborating in real time. Some tools support self-hosting for full data control, while others prioritize convenience and instant access from any device.
Use the filters above to compare features like PDF export, spell checking, collaboration tools, platform support, and licensing—and find the Word alternative that best fits your workflow.
Alternatives list
ConstEdit word processor is a Google Chrome / Microsoft Edge web browser extension. It writes doc in the html format, which is the standard internet webpage format. Documents written are therefore directly viewable with any web browsers.
+2
Nimble Writer is a general-purpose tool for writing stories, be it short fiction stories or even complete novels or books. It focuses on being distraction-free, simple, and fully customizable.
+1
Combines lore library, detailed timeline, and manuscript editor in one workspace, with scene dating on custom calendars, contradiction checks by logic, cross-linked entries, live lore references, maps, family trees, viewer sharing, offline desktop sync, and no AI involved.
87 NovaScriber alternativesA most awesome tool to outline and write novels, stories, scripts and keep track of all your characters, locations, notes and ideas.
Cost / License
- Free Personal
- Proprietary
Application types
Platforms
- Windows
+8
A tailor-made writing application for fiction writers that lets you plan, organize, and write stories and series. You can create story outlines from pre-defined templates, create and manage rich and interesting characters, build immersive fictional worlds and more.
Cost / License
- Freemium
- Proprietary
Application types
Platforms
- Online
- Software as a Service (SaaS)
+9
Rich text editor for Windows 10 and 11 offering tabbed windows, autosave, minimal UI, support for multiple files, basic and advanced RTF editing, AI-powered features, extension support including ChatGPT, and a smooth workspace for daily and professional use.
+9
94 Dabble alternativesCloud-based writing platform tailored for novelists, featuring cross-device syncing, distraction-free focus mode, advanced plotting tools, detailed character and story planning, daily word goal tracking, scene organization, annotation, and editing with grammar checks.
Cost / License
- Paid
- Proprietary
Application types
Platforms
- Mac
- Windows
- Online
Verbum is a simple, user friendly word processor that works with a wide selection of file formats. When working with Verbum, do not expect to find fancy ribbon menus or lots of tools, like in Microsoft Office.
AbleWord is a very capable word processing application that can read and write most popular document formats including PDF's.
Bit.ai is a next-gen document collaboration platform that offers a smart editor to create interactive live docs, robust digital content library, & document tracking so teams can see how audiences interact with documents they share.
Cost / License
- Freemium
- Proprietary
Application types
Platforms
- Online
- Software as a Service (SaaS)
+9
United States
Romania
EU
South Africa
