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i replaced windows built in apps with — Windows' built-in apps often feel inadequate, but there are numerous lightweight alternatives that can enhance your experience..

I Replaced Windows Built In Apps With

Windows’ built-in apps often feel inadequate, but there are numerous lightweight alternatives that can enhance your experience.

I Replaced Windows’ Built‑In Apps With These Lightweight Alternatives

Windows operating system comes pre-installed with a variety of built-in applications designed to perform essential tasks. However, many users find these apps to be underwhelming, lacking in features, or simply not user-friendly. Fortunately, there are numerous lightweight alternatives available that can significantly improve your productivity and overall user experience. Below, we explore some of the best alternatives to common Windows built-in apps.

1. File Management: Explorer vs. FreeCommander

Windows Explorer is the default file management tool in Windows, but it can be cumbersome and limited in functionality. For users looking for a more robust solution, FreeCommander offers a free, lightweight alternative that enhances file management capabilities.

Dual-pane interface: This feature allows users to view two folders side by side, making file transfers easier.
Customizable layout: Users can adjust the interface to suit their preferences.
Built-in FTP support: FreeCommander includes FTP functionality, allowing for easy file transfers to and from servers.

2. Image Viewing: Photos vs. IrfanView

The Windows Photos app is often criticized for its slow performance and limited editing features. A popular alternative is IrfanView, a lightweight image viewer that supports a wide range of formats.

Fast performance: IrfanView is known for its quick loading times, even with large image files.
Batch processing: Users can easily convert and edit multiple images at once.
Extensive format support: It supports a vast array of image formats, making it versatile for different needs.

3. Text Editing: Notepad vs. Notepad++

While Windows Notepad is a simple text editor, it lacks advanced features that many users require. Notepad++ is a powerful alternative that offers a plethora of features for both casual and professional users.

Syntax highlighting: Ideal for programmers, Notepad++ supports syntax highlighting for multiple programming languages.
Plugin support: Users can enhance functionality with various plugins available for download.
Tabbed interface: This allows users to work on multiple documents simultaneously.

4. Media Playback: Windows Media Player vs. VLC Media Player

Windows Media Player is often seen as outdated and lacking in features. In contrast, VLC Media Player is a free, open-source media player that supports a wide range of audio and video formats.

Wide format support: VLC can play virtually any media file without the need for additional codecs.
Customizable interface: Users can modify the player’s appearance and functionality to suit their needs.
Streaming capabilities: VLC allows users to stream media from various sources, including online platforms.

5. Email: Mail App vs. Thunderbird

The built-in Mail app in Windows is often criticized for its limited features. Mozilla Thunderbird is a free email client that offers a more comprehensive email management experience.

Multiple account support: Thunderbird allows users to manage multiple email accounts from different providers in one place.
Advanced filtering: Users can create custom filters to organize their inbox effectively.
Extensive add-ons: Thunderbird supports a variety of add-ons to enhance functionality.

6. PDF Viewing: Edge vs. SumatraPDF

While Microsoft Edge has a built-in PDF viewer, it may not meet the needs of all users. SumatraPDF is a lightweight alternative that focuses on simplicity and speed.

Fast loading times: SumatraPDF is known for its quick performance, making it ideal for viewing large PDFs.
Minimalist design: The interface is clean and straightforward, allowing users to focus on the content.
Portability: SumatraPDF can be run from a USB stick without installation, making it convenient for on-the-go use.

7. Note-Taking: OneNote vs. Simplenote

Microsoft OneNote is a popular note-taking app, but it can be overwhelming for users who prefer simplicity. Simplenote offers a lightweight alternative that focuses on ease of use.

Syncing capabilities: Simplenote automatically syncs notes across devices, ensuring accessibility.
Tagging system: Users can organize notes with tags for easy retrieval.
Clean interface: The minimalist design allows users to focus on their notes without distractions.

8. System Monitoring: Task Manager vs. Process Explorer

Windows Task Manager provides basic system monitoring tools, but for users needing more detailed information, Process Explorer is a powerful alternative.

Detailed process information: Process Explorer provides in-depth details about running processes, including resource usage.
Search functionality: Users can search for specific processes to find out more about them.
Customizable interface: The layout can be adjusted to display the information most relevant to the user.

9. Disk Cleanup: Disk Cleanup vs. CCleaner

Windows Disk Cleanup is a basic tool for freeing up space, but CCleaner offers more advanced features for maintaining system performance.

Comprehensive cleaning: CCleaner can remove temporary files, browser caches, and other unnecessary data.
Registry cleaning: The tool can also clean up the Windows registry to improve system stability.
User-friendly interface: CCleaner’s interface is intuitive, making it easy for users to navigate.

10. Backup Solutions: File History vs. Macrium Reflect

Windows File History provides basic backup capabilities, but for users looking for more robust solutions, Macrium Reflect is a powerful alternative.

Full disk imaging: Macrium Reflect allows users to create complete disk images for backup.
Incremental backups: Users can perform incremental backups to save time and storage space.
Scheduling options: The software offers scheduling features to automate backup processes.

Conclusion

Replacing Windows’ built-in apps with lightweight alternatives can significantly enhance your computing experience. These alternatives not only provide better performance but also offer additional features that can improve productivity. Whether you need a more efficient file manager, a faster media player, or a more capable email client, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs.

Source: Original reporting

Further reading: related insights.