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.
Edit and create documents online with Word Online. Work collaboratively in real-time using your browser. Requires Microsoft 365 sign-in. Save and share documents in OneDrive. Use alongside desktop Office applications for a flexible workflow.
United States
Etherpad is a highly customizable Open Source online editor providing collaborative editing in really real-time.
Germany
EU
Ulysses is a text editor for creative writers. Used by bloggers, poets, students and published novelists all over the world, it offers an integrated environment to brainstorm, draft, revise and even submit text on a professional level.
GermanyEU
Atlantis is an innovative, no-nonsense word processor carefully designed with the end-user in mind. Compact, fast-loading, but still powerful and efficient, Atlantis will be the perfect companion for a wide range of your word processing tasks, – from simple to most complex.
United States
Focus on your words not the interface. Quoll Writer is a writing application that helps you focus on your words. Clean and uncluttered. Feature rich. Features are where you would expect them to be.
Australia
Cloud-based word processor with AI assistant for improved writing, document publishing across platforms, e-signature, mobile apps, and MS Word compatibility. Offers collaborative tools, custom workflows, secure cloud storage, and seamless integration with other Zoho applications.
India
Working on a project, researching a topic or writing an article? Walling makes it easy to break down your ideas, refine them and visually organize them.
Edit, create, and view your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations — all without internet access.
United States
Ellipsus is a collaborative writing tool purpose-built for creative writers. Designed for seamless collaboration and fearless creativity, Ellipsus makes it easier than ever to write, edit, and share stories—with anyone and on any device.
GermanyEU
Dropbox Paper is more than a doc—it’s a workspace that brings creation and coordination together in one place.
United States
Authorea is the online document editor for researchers that allows researchers to write, cite, host data, and publish research documents. Authorea is trusted worldwide by leading researchers writing and publishing content in every discipline, from astrophysics to zoology.
United States
