Selecting the right app for a specific function is crucial. It may often take time to explore different alternatives than the ones we are already accustomed to or adapt to new solutions, but the dedication invested usually yields more than one surprise. This is the case with these nine free and open-source applications for Mac that clearly stand out against their paid alternatives.
Very, very interesting free and open source applications
- Blender is a highly capable tool for 2D and 3D design and animation. This open-source project not only has the backing of industry giants like Epic Games and Ubisoft but is also constantly updated, making it an excellent choice for both enthusiasts and professionals. Its robust set of tools allows users to create high-quality models and animations.
- Handbrake, an essential for video encoding and decoding, holds a special place in our list. This free and open-source project is available not only for Mac but also for Windows and Linux. Its broad support for different formats makes it a clear leader in the area of video encoding.
- Oracle’s VirtualBox is a virtualization solution for x86 systems. As free software, it can compete with and in some aspects, surpass options like Parallels or VMWare. It’s perfect for running another operating system on our Mac, allowing us to experiment with different environments without leaving our main platform.
- Darktable, the free and open-source competitor to Lightroom, is perfect for working with RAW image files. This app allows easy management of our digital files and is backed by an active and enthusiastic community that continuously develops and improves its functionality.
- Jellyfin is a strong response to Plex, and it’s free. In some aspects, it even surpasses the capabilities of Plex. Available not only for Mac but also for devices like iPhone, iPad, Android TV, Fire TV, with AirPlay support, it has become a pillar in the world of media centers.
- OBS Studio has established itself as the top choice for live streaming on multiple platforms. This free and open-source project, managed by a community of volunteers, allows users to stream high-quality content in real-time.
- VLC, more than just a simple video player, can handle a wide range of formats, providing smooth and stable playback. Its versatile and reliable functionality has made VLC one of the most popular and recommended free applications in the world of open-source software.
- Calibre is the ideal solution for managing our eBooks. This free software offers a robust set of tools for everything related to eBooks, from reading to organizing, editing, creating, sharing, backing up, and more, making it an invaluable ally for digital reading enthusiasts.
- Keka is essential for compressing and decompressing files on macOS. Although it is free, it also offers a paid option in the Mac App Store to support the creator, showing that value doesn’t always have to come with a cost.
Indeed, there are many other successful examples in the world of open-source software, such as OpenEmu, a game emulator; Kodi, an advanced media center; and Audacity, a powerful audio editor. However, for now, while we can play the highly anticipated Payday 3 before anyone else and for free, we’ll stick with the nine apps from the top list. It’s evident that free apps, in many cases, not only compete but also surpass their paid alternatives in various aspects.
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