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.