Whether or not we realize it, we depend on apps for multiple reasons, personal and professional. Windows has a multitude of apps to choose from, and it’s common to wonder which ones are worth investing your time in and which ones should be avoided.
A smart way to judge which apps are good is by checking the number of downloads. Here’s a list of the most popular Windows apps downloaded in 2022.
Zoom Meetings
Number of Downloads – 1816140
With virtual interactions becoming more prominent, Zoom Meetings became one of the most downloaded apps in 2022. Founded in 2011, Zoom was noticed more than ever when people stayed home and couldn’t travel either to work or to meet their loved ones.
Zoom became synonymous with virtual meets since 2019, and the number of downloads started to increase rapidly. Zoom is free to use with the basic features, but you need to pay a fee if you wish to use it on a larger scale and for longer durations. Many companies integrated the app into their system to seamlessly connect with coworkers without having to worry about geographical restrictions anymore.

Microsoft Word
Number of Downloads – 1328569
Microsoft Word was first released in 1983 and has since become the most popular word processing tool to be used to date, with several upgrades since its first release. Today, Microsoft Word comes with built-in intelligent features that make it easy to create documents seamlessly. The documents can now be used for collaboration too, and people can edit and update the document conveniently. It offers various localizations and language correction tools as well.

Anydesk
Number of Downloads – 1018830
Remote access was once a distant dream, but thanks to Anydesk, it’s now something that’s not only possible but also comes with an array of features one never thought possible. Released for the first time in 2015, Anydesk took virtual workspaces to a whole new level by enabling people to access their work computers even when they were away from the system, thereby preventing any delays in the workflow. It’s no wonder this app was one of the most downloaded apps in 2022.

Roblox
Number of Downloads – 721170
Game development is one of the most promising careers today, and the best way to learn the skill is to practice regularly. Roblox is a gaming platform and creation system that helps young minds discover their passion for developing games using simple tools. Released in 2006, this platform is loved by people of all ages, and it’s no surprise the app is so heavily downloaded even today.

µTorrent
Number of Downloads – 1136624
Downloading large files is no longer a struggle thanks to apps like µTorrent. Torrents are easier to download because it pushes smaller portions of a large file, so you get the best download speed. Whether it’s a high-definition movie clip or a large file that you’re unable to email to your coworker, this app is the best way to share these files. Released in 2005, µTorrent is simple to use, making it a popular choice for sharing large files.

Netflix
Number of Downloads – 709828
Over-the-top streaming apps have gained a lot of popularity since the introduction of smart televisions, but Netflix was one app that people downloaded even on their computers way before smart televisions became a thing. The app was so popular people relate it to binge-watching while relaxing at home. Although the app is available on televisions, it’s still one of the most downloaded apps on windows devices.

Number of Downloads – 870952
When was the last time you sent out a conventional text message to someone? Whatsapp has taken over text messages for the better by making them more interactive, creative, and accessible. The free-to-use app is compactable with almost any mobile device and offers features that make conversations a breeze, irrespective of the location of the sender or recipient.
Released in 2009, Whatsapp gave Blackberry a run for its money by introducing cross-platform messaging. Today Whatsapp offers a plethora of features, including making calls, sharing images, locations, and even payments in certain countries.

Microsoft Excel
Number of Downloads – 696650
Spreadsheets are the most effective way to compile information, compare statistics, draw up graphs or make notes of tasks to do. Microsoft Excel comes with computation capabilities that offer limitless options to edit and create spreadsheets that are capable of storing any sort of information. From basic calculations to complex formulas that help separate data, you can get it all done using Microsoft Excel, and that’s just scraping off the tip of the iceberg. Microsoft Excel is so extensive, people take courses to learn how to make optimal use of the app.

Norton 360 Deluxe
Number of Downloads – 26462
People today have become more aware of security, and that’s where Norton 360 Deluxe comes into the picture. Back in the day, one wouldn’t know the difference between Norton 360 – an antivirus, and Norton 360 Deluxe, an antivirus on steroids. Norton 360 Deluxe not only protects against viruses, but it also provides dark web protection, parental controls, a VPN, and more. This app became a hot favorite at corporates, making it a highly downloaded app.

VLC Media Player
Number of Downloads – 835135
Imagine having to download multiple apps to listen to music, watch videos in different formats or play clips shared on your device. It’s not convenient, is it? That’s where VLC Media Player comes into the picture. The app enables cross-platform media storage and allows you to watch videos or listen to music using the same app. It’s a great way to share video presentations on multiple devices without worrying about the format getting messed up or the file not opening on the recipient’s end.

Apps You’ll Love
The apps mentioned above are from different walks of life and come in handy at some point or another, whether it’s on the personal or professional front. Considering how popular they are, you won’t regret giving any one of them a try.