SpeechPad XP for Windows

Though this text editor differentiates itself by converting typed words into speech, it lacks some of the most common (and useful) features for text editors. It does have a basic, easy-to-understand interface that lets you create, open, and edit a file. You can format font style, size, and color. You can't adjust any page-setup options, but you can insert time and date macros, which is odd for a program geared toward novice users.

The application's real draw is its ability to read all or part of the document's text back to you, with or without punctuation. The speed and voice type can be adjusted, though this 15-day trial version provides only one technologically outdated voice that makes C-3PO sound like a Shakespearian actor.

SpeechPad XP saves in both plain-text and RTF formats, but you can't reopen the file in the program. This application won't impress intermediate or advanced users, but novices may find it amusing and slightly useful.