Key Details of Free Opener

  • Open over 80 different file types like PDF, RAR, ZIP, DOCX, PPTX & others from one program
  • Last updated on 06/02/11
  • There have been 0 updates within the past 6 months
  • The current version has 1 flag on VirusTotal badge_icon

Editors’ Review

Download.com staff

Free Opener opens a large variety of files without any hassle. There's nothing more annoying than trying to open a file, only to find that you don't have the right program on hand to do the job. We rarely keep the applications we review, but this is one that we plan on keeping around for personal use.

The program has a very simple user interface, with only three menu options: File, Edit, and Help. Using the File menu, we were able to browse for and select different files to view in the large window. One by one, we opened PDF, AVI, XLS, and HTML files without any trouble whatsoever. No matter what file we chose, each one opened clearly and effortlessly in the window. In terms of help, the About feature gives a listing of the numerous file types that are supported by the program. 

Another link sends you to the program's Web site, where you can access FAQs. The Preferences menu doesn't offer much, just the option to change the skin of the interface, but we can't complain because the program performed perfectly. Free Opener has one job, and it does it well.

The program installs and uninstalls cleanly.

Free Opener’s utility lies in its versatility and simplicity, making it ideal for users who want quick access to multiple file types without having to download separate software for each. Its support for a wide range of file formats—from documents like DOCX and PDF to multimedia files like MP4 and JPG—sets it apart as a convenient, all-in-one solution. The lack of unnecessary features ensures that it remains lightweight and user-friendly, even for those with limited technical expertise.

However, Free Opener is not without limitations. For advanced users or those looking to edit files, its read-only nature may feel restrictive. While it excels at opening files, it does not allow modifications, which may require users to turn to dedicated programs for specific tasks. For instance, editing a PDF would necessitate software like Adobe Acrobat, while advanced spreadsheet manipulation would still require tools like Microsoft Excel.

For users seeking a more comprehensive and feature-rich alternative, Universal Viewer is a noteworthy option. Universal Viewer also supports a wide array of file formats but includes additional functionalities, such as customizable keyboard shortcuts, plugin support, and file previews directly from zip archives. While Universal Viewer provides more advanced options, it may be slightly less intuitive for users who prioritize simplicity.

Bottom Line

Free Opener is a fantastic tool for its intended purpose: quick and hassle-free file viewing. It is particularly useful for users who frequently encounter diverse file types and prefer a single solution for opening them. With its clean performance and reliable operation, the program remains a must-have for basic file accessibility.



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Full Specifications

GENERAL
Release
Latest update
Version
1.0
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Platform
Windows
Operating System
  • Windows 7
  • Windows 2003
  • Windows 10
  • Windows ME
  • Windows 2000
  • Windows XP
  • Windows Vista
  • Windows Server
  • Windows 98
  • Windows NT
Additional Requirements
None
POPULARITY
Total Downloads
303,949
Downloads Last Week
21

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Program available in other languages


Last Updated


User Reviews

2.8/5

23 User Votes


Developer’s Description

Open over 80 different file types like PDF, RAR, ZIP, DOCX, PPTX & others from one program.
Open different file types on your computer. Open Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDF Files, and many other image, movie, and music file types. No specialty software is required to open any of these file formats. With Free Opener, once you download the software, you no longer have to worry about opening files again. Opens 75+ file types on Windows including PDF, DOC, AVI, DOCX, ZIP, JAR, XML, HTML, SWF, 7Z, PHP, XLSX, MKV, FLV, XLS, JPEG, TXT, PSD, WMV, CR2, CRW, GIF, MSG, NEF, TIFF, JPG, MOV, MP4, LOG, PNG, CS, INI, MPEG, MPG, CSS, MP3, CFG, HTM, BMP, JS, XLSM, WA, ICO, REG, DNG, ARW, MID, ORF, RAF, PEF, RESX, CF2, ERF, MEF, MRW, SR2, X3F.