Usenet Explorer

Tired of the run-of-the-mill newsreaders? Try this robust reader, but novices should keep their distance.

Interfaces based on the typical friendly and ubiquitous e-mail client are usually a snap to learn. However, Usenet Explorer offers one of the most confusing arrays of buttons we've seen on such an interface. Novices and perhaps even those with more Usenet newsreader experience will probably be intimidated by all the icons and check boxes. Fortunately, the publisher provides a great tutorial online, with step-by-step instructions that clear up all the mystery; we give high marks for that.

Once we mastered the tutorial, Usenet Explorer performed quickly and smoothly. It led us through connecting to our ISP's news server, and selecting (and filtering) groups and downloading headers was a simple matter. This app is very robust and reliable, but the appearance may drive away potential users. The 15-day trial limit is a little brief, and the $35 price tag seems a bit steep. Still, this feature-full newsreader is worth trying if you're looking for a new Usenet reader.