Best Free Windows Software You Must Install
Your Windows PC can do much more than you imagine if you install the right software. Whether you are using Windows 10 or Windows 11, the tools listed here represent the best free Windows software you must install to unlock speed, productivity, and professional-level performance—all without spending a dime.
This guide is based on real-world usage, trending searches, and discussions from communities like Reddit.
Why This List Matters
Unlike generic software roundups, this guide focuses on:
- Real user adoption with the most popular apps
- 100% free and safe downloads
- Optimized for both Windows 10 and Windows 11
- Practical daily-use value rather than filler apps
If you have searched for the best software for PC, this list gives you exactly what you need.
Top 10 Most Used Windows PC Software
Google Chrome
Category: Web Browser
- Fast browsing and strong security
- Syncs across devices
- One of the best apps for Windows 10 laptops
VLC Media Player
Category: Media Player
- Plays almost every audio and video format
- No ads or tracking
- Essential free app for Windows 10
LibreOffice
Category: Office and Productivity
- Free alternative to Microsoft Office
- Ideal for students and professionals
- One of the best free software for Windows 10
7-Zip
Category: File Compression
- Lightweight and extremely fast
- High compression ratio
- Must-have in top 10 most used Windows PC software free download
Microsoft PowerToys
Category: System Utilities
- Developed by Microsoft
- Advanced productivity features
- Optimized for Windows 10 and 11
Notepad++
Category: Text and Code Editor
- Fast, powerful, and efficient
- Perfect for developers and writers
- A classic best software for PC
Spotify Free Version
Category: Entertainment
- Millions of songs instantly available
- One of the most popular free apps for Windows 10
GIMP
Category: Image Editing
- Professional photo editing tools
- Free Photoshop alternative
- One of the best free software for Windows 11
CCleaner Free Edition
Category: System Optimization
- Cleans junk files and improves performance
- Still among the top Windows PC software
Zoom
Category: Communication
- Online meetings and remote work
- Lightweight and reliable
- Essential PC software today
Best Free Software for Windows 10 and Windows 11
All the software above is:
- Fully compatible with Windows 10
- Optimized for Windows 11
- Frequently recommended in Reddit discussions
These tools work perfectly on laptops, desktops, and even low-end PCs.
Pro Tip: Install Only What You Need
Installing fewer, high-quality apps keeps your PC faster and more secure. Every tool in this list delivers real value, not just features.
Final Verdict
This is not just another software list. It is a carefully curated collection of the best free Windows software you must install in 2026. Whether you want better productivity, performance, or entertainment, these apps represent the best software for PC—free, trusted, and essential.