Top Free Software Every PC User Should Install in 2025

Today, I’ll walk you through some of the most important free software programs I personally use on my computer. These are divided into four categories: Productivity & Recovery, Hardware Monitoring, Video & Audio Tools, and Bonus Picks.

1. Microsoft Power Toys
A must-have suite of utilities to enhance productivity on Windows. Features include:

• Fancy Zones: Organize windows into custom layouts, perfect for ultra-wide monitors.
• Mouse Highlighter: Highlights clicks, ideal for tutorials.
• Image Resizer: Bulk resize images via right-click.
• Other tools: Power Rename, Color Picker, Keyboard Manager, and more.

2. Recuba (Recuva)
Recover deleted files from hard drives, USBs, and memory cards. Simply select the drive, scan, and recover files like videos, photos, documents, or emails.

3. Revo Uninstaller
Goes beyond the standard Windows uninstaller by removing leftover files and registry entries. Features “Hunter Mode” to uninstall programs lacking a default uninstaller.

4. HWMonitor
Monitor CPU, GPU, RAM, voltage, fan speeds, and temperatures in real time. Helps detect overheating or instability before it becomes a problem.

5. Cinebench R23
Benchmark tool that evaluates CPU and GPU performance. Great for system reviews and overclocking tests.

6. OCCT (by OCBase)
A system stability tester that stress tests CPU, RAM, GPU, and PSU. Features include 3D adaptive testing and VRAM benchmarking.

7. Fan Control
Advanced software for total control of all fans (CPU, GPU, and case). Supports custom profiles and temperature-based controls. Created by RM Software and free to use.

8. DaVinci Resolve
Professional-grade video editing software with visual effects and multi-track support. It’s beginner-friendly and backed by a strong online tutorial community.

9. VLC Media Player
Plays almost any video/audio format including AVI, MP4, MKV, FLAC, and more. Supports streaming, file conversion, and DVDs.

10. Photo Editing with 2.0
Free tool for graphic design, icon creation, and image manipulation. Great for red-eye removal, sharpening, and applying effects.

11. OBS Studio
Perfect for screen recording, streaming, and live mixing. Allows simultaneous capture of multiple sources and integrates with YouTube and Twitch.

12. Plex Media Server
Turn your digital media into a personal Netflix-like library. Works across devices and supports remote access (with paid version). Combine with Jellyfin for full remote access for free.

13. HandBrake
Video transcoder to compress or convert files for different devices. Great for ripping DVDs or shrinking files for compatibility. For Blu-rays, use DumboFab DVD Ripper instead.

Bonus Software

• AS SSD Benchmark: Benchmark read/write speeds for SSDs.
• Audacity: Powerful audio editor for voiceovers, podcasts, and music. Open-source and multi-track supported.

That wraps up the list of my favorite free software. Let me know what you think in the comments, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!