Magic Whiteboard for Windows

We like the idea behind Magic Whiteboard; networked users can draw collaboratively on the same image from different computers. Unfortunately, the program's execution leaves a lot to be desired.

The program's interface is cute, with the drawing area framed by a border featuring cartoon animals and gnomes. The actual drawing features are lacking, and will be disappointing to kids who are already familiar with programs like Microsoft Paint. There's a pencil feature whose width can be adjusted on a scale from 1 to 18, and an eraser, but that's it. The really awful thing about this program, though, was its color selection error message. Although the program is supposed to give users access to a wide range of colors, every time we tried to switch, we got an error message, leaving us stuck with purple. Whatever redeeming qualities the program has are negated by this problem; what kid wants to draw with only one color? The program does contain a brief Help file, but this error message isn't anything that can be fixed on the user's end. Overall, given the program's lack of features and its buggy operation, we were highly unimpressed.

Magic Whiteboard has a seven-day trial period. It installs politely but leaves a file behind upon removal. We do not recommend this program; you'd be better off with a coloring book and some crayons.