CNET Editors' review
We review a lot of free software, and most of it, though decent, isn't really anything to write home about. But every now and then we come across a program like EfficientPIM Free. Even though the word "free" is in the program's name, we actually had to go back and make sure that the program really didn't cost anything. We found it hard to believe that such a feature-packed program could really be had gratis.
The program's interface is attractive and intuitive, with a variety of color schemes to choose from. EfficientPIM's layout is very similar to that of Microsoft Outlook, with tabs for Calendar, Contact, Events, Tasks, Diary, and Notes. The program also has a search function, password manager, and desktop note feature. Everything about the program is both detailed and easy to use; for example, it's easy to create new events, but there's still a high level of customization, with settings for importance, recurrence, colored labels, flexible reminders, and even user-defined alert sounds. Contacts include fields not only for names and addresses, but for spouses, birthdays and anniversaries, hobbies, and even photos. The Notes feature is actually a mini word processor, with plenty of options for text formatting. Although this free version of EfficientPIM alludes to some of the features that are available only in the Pro version, like spell check, this version of the software still offers a very impressive array of features. The program's Help file is well-written and thorough. Overall, we find it hard to imagine a free PIM that's a better choice than EfficientPIM Free.
EfficientPIM Free installs and uninstalls without issues. We highly recommend this program.
Publisher's Description
From Efficient Software:
EfficientPIM Free is a completely free while still beautiful, easy-to-use and powerful personal information manager that can help you organize and plan your business and private life. With EfficientPIM Free you can keep track of contacts, appointments, tasks, to-do lists, birthdays, and much more. The software also gives you space for keeping notes, diaries, and even passwords. In order to be successful you need to be organized and efficient. With EfficientPIM Free all of the things you need to manage are located in one, easy-to-use interface.
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All versions:
3.3 starsout of 15 votes
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Current version:
0 stars Be the first to review this product -
My rating:
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"Tracking Plug In is downloaded with your update"
Version: EfficientPIM Free 3.10 Build 327
Pros
The program itself is really great for appointments and contacts, both of which I need.
Cons
When I went to download the newest version, the constructions said that a tracking plug in would be downloaded too to track any websites I visited. I declined the update and will be deleting the program as soon as I know what else to use. Pretty sad, actually, for a really good program.
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"This is an excellent freeware program."
Version: EfficientPIM Free 3.10 Build 324
Pros
EfficientPIM Free is an excellent way to keep track of your events, tasks, contacts and notes. It even has a diary. Pretty much everything you need for day-to-day activities all in one program.
Cons
If you're like me, I really need the spellchecker. I just can't justify $39.95 for just that.
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"A very full featured personal organizer"
Version: EfficientPIM Free 3.0 Build 316
Pros
Lots of features
Very intuitive
A great alternative to off the shelf organizers
FREECons
Unable to import information from other software
Limited customization, but not a problem.Summary
When my old program (Stay Organized) didn't work with Windows 7 I checked Cnet for alternatives. I am really glad I found this. It does all my old organzier did and more. There are a few thing I have to get used to, but overall I am very happy. I am still finding new features, as I have only used it for about 2 weeks.
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"Would look better with a Ribbon GUI!!"
Version: EfficientPIM Free 2.98 Build 243
Pros
Awesome job at handling all my personal information needs!!
Cons
Sub-par interface. Kind of hard to find stuff. Does not have a Ribbon Interface!! Does NOT have rapport-building security notice (papers) to prove your personal data isn't shooting across the internet to hackers.
Summary
This is a program that would look and perform much much better with a "Ribbon" interface (like that found in Microsoft Office 2007 or 2010 or Nitro PDF Reader), or just something more easier to manage and move around in. Right now the program is a little difficult to operate.
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"Fails to import Calendar fields and duplicates contacts"
Version: EfficientPIM Free 2.97 Build 242
Pros
If it worked it would be good as a simple/basic contact and calendar manager.
Cons
Having verified that the .CSV files are correct, in Calendar the "Subject" field (e.g. John's Birthday") fails to import and a multitude of contacts appear twice even though they are not duplicated in the .CSV file.
Summary
Perhaps the problem could be that I'm working on an old PC*, but for me this product simply doesn't work!
* Windows XP & Office 2000 -
"glorified calendar"
Version: EfficientPIM Free 2.97 Build 240
Pros
i see nowhere where it allows you to work on a business plan- all this is is a glorified calendar.
Cons
see above.
Summary
see above
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"Very well designed/structured software"
Version: EfficientPIM Free 2.96 Build 238
Pros
Works great and it is FREE
Cons
Really no cons, but would be great if the password feature would fill-in the user ID and Password automatically when clicking on the link to the related website.
Summary
Hard to believe that a software this good does not require a license fee.
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"NOT impressed"
Version: EfficientPIM Free 2.96 Build 238
Pros
Nice interface
Cons
Failed to import address book/contact list. Only imported names, no addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, etc. from an exported mozilla thunderbird email client.
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"Great product .. free... looking into buying to pro"
Version: EfficientPIM Free 2.96 Build 237
Pros
very easy to use.. almost like outlook
Cons
still playing around with program no cons at this point
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"Too bad it cannot import .PST files from MS Outlook"
Version: EfficientPIM Free 2.96 Build 237
Pros
The company expects being able to import .PST files sometime next year, along with version 3.
Cons
Currently It only can only import CSV files. That won't work for me because that fails to import the comments I have for each of my contacts in MS Outlook. Similarly, it will fail to import recurring calendar events.
Summary
It would be a lot better if it allowed FULL migration away from MS Outlook.
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