Software and apps
More Software and apps Posts
The Best Mobile Scanning Apps
by Ben Keough and Melanie Pinola
These free apps turn your phone into a scanner and produce high-quality PDFs, JPEGs, and text documents.
The Best Dictation Software
by Kaitlyn Wells
Apple Voice Control and Nuance Dragon Home 15 are the best dictation tools we’ve tested, though both struggle with some accents and speech impediments.
Back Up and Secure Your Digital Life
by Ivy Liscomb
From password managers to backup software, here are the apps and services everyone needs to protect themselves from security breaches and data loss.
The Best Two-Factor Authentication App
by Max Eddy and Thorin Klosowski
Two-factor authentication is critical to securing your online accounts, and Duo Mobile offers the best combination of security, accessibility, and ease of use.
The Best Video Games of 2024 So Far
by Arthur Gies and Haley Perry
2024 has seen some great video games, but these are the best of the best this year so far.
The Best Transcription Services
by Signe Brewster
We found that the AI-based Temi is the best transcription service for people who need a readable and affordable transcript for general reference.
How to Revive an Old Computer for Your Kid—or Decide on a New One
by Kimber Streams and Dave Gershgorn
If you have an older computer that feels too slow to get anything done, these tips may keep it out of a recycling center for a little longer.
Automatic Settings Are Boring. Bring Mood to Your Photos With These Easy Color Adjustments.
by Phil Ryan
Adjusting color can make your photos pop in ways that automatic settings never could. Here’s how.
The Best VPN Service
by Max Eddy
You might not need a VPN, but if you want to add an extra layer of security to your web browsing, Mullvad has been our pick for years.
10 Apps to Add to Your Kid’s First Phone (That Aren’t Social Media)
by Ellen Lee
Learn an alien language. Identify local wildlife. Take care of a digital pet—and yourself. These apps can be fun and helpful additions to your kid’s phone.
The Best Online Fax Services
by Melanie Pinola
If you need to send occasional faxes for free, no service does it better than Dropbox Fax. Need to fax sensitive info? Give mFax a try.
The Best Parental Control Apps to Manage Screen Time (and Keep Your Kid Safer Online)
by Ellen Lee
Most tweens and teens have their own phone. The right app can help set limits—and aid kids in developing healthy tech habits.
How to Set Up a Tablet for Kids
by Ellen Lee
If you're handing a smartphone or tablet to your child for the first time, here are a few tools that can help the transition go smoothly.
So You’re Locked Out of Your Two-Factor Authentication App. Don’t Panic.
by Max Eddy
If you lose your phone or switch devices, you might get locked out of your online accounts. Here’s how to prevent that from happening.
The Best Fantasy Sports Apps
by James Austin
Fantasy sports can seem intimidating, but ESPN Fantasy, with its useful features and user-friendly layout, is the best option for most beginners.
How to Organize Your Digital Files
by Melanie Pinola
With the right setup of folders and file names, you’ll always be able to find what you need on your computer.
The Best Password Managers
by Andrew Cunningham, Thorin Klosowski, and Max Eddy
Everyone should use a password manager, and after researching dozens and testing six, we recommend 1Password because it’s secure and easy to use.