Many of the most powerful tools people use on a daily basis are absolutely free. Some of these are open source alternatives to more mainstream products. Here are the top 5 free resources, along with their paid alternatives for comparison.
- Audacity Audio Recording Software: Audacity is an open source program that allows you to record and mix audio. All you need is a microphone and you can start creating and editing audio tutorials that can be used to create opt-in giveaways, tutorials, or voiceovers for video. Compare that to Adobe Audition which, while it is more powerful, sells for $349.
- CamStudio Screen Capture Software: CamStudio is a free tool to do screen capture videos. You can output your videos to avi or swf format, or you could just upload your file to Youtube and let Youtube compress it for you and you can download the .mp4. Compare this to Camtasia Studio, which will set you back at least $99.
- Anymeeting: Formerly known as Freebinar, Anymeeting is a webinar hosting alternative to GoToWebinar that is absolutely free. GoToWebinar starts at $100 / per month, while Anymeeting will let you hold up to a 200 person webinar absolutely free.
- Gimphoto + Gimpad = Free Photoshop: If you want to do some photo editing and manipulating, the Gimpad + Gimphoto combo can’t be beat. It’s the closest software you can get to Photoshop, and it’s free. Compare this to Adobe Photoshop which will cost you $699
- Google Keyword Tool: Google Keyword Tool is an invaluable resource for keyword research for both SEO and PPC advertising. When used in conjunction with a few other free tools, you have the power to research the relevance, traffic, competition, and commericality of your intended keywords. You could use Google Keyword Tool as well as a few other free resources, or you could use Market Samurai, an all-in-one tool that does it all, without the use of multiple resources. It gives you instant access to a free trial period and an introductory price of $97 if you purchase during the trial. After that the price is $149.
Well there you have it, the top 5 free resources for getting stuff done online. Feel free to leave a comment below and add yours.
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