Top Windows Applications I Utilize Regularly for Enhanced Efficiency
In the realm of digital tools, there are numerous options available, each serving a unique purpose. Here's a roundup of some free software that can cater to various needs, from media playback and editing to programming and system utilities.
ScreenToGIF
ScreenToGIF is a versatile tool, often used for creating GIFs and capturing videos. It's particularly handy for IT support tickets, but regrettably, it doesn't support MOV files. For MOV files, Handbrake, another free application, comes in handy.
Handbrake
Handbrake is a tool primarily used for transcoding audio/video media, making them compatible with older devices, devices with specialized hardware decoders, or for publishing to YouTube. Advanced users can integrate Handbrake's CLI interface to automate batch processes, such as backing up DVD collections to a NAS.
VLC
VLC, a media player par excellence, can play a wide variety of media formats, including malformed files, YouTube links, and BBC iPlayer streams. Moreover, it can be used for screengrabbing images from video capture cards and accessing media files stored on a network.
Rufus
Rufus, developed by Pete Batard, is a free application used for writing ISO/IMG files to USB sticks for later use on a machine. Interestingly, Rufus can also be used to customize a Windows 11 install disk to bypass TPM requirements.
Notepad
Notepad++ is a lightweight development tool that offers excellent awareness of programming languages and syntax highlighting for coders. It supports Markdown and provides a plugin for previewing Markdown content before publication.
GIMP
GIMP, a bitmap image editor, offers features similar to Adobe Photoshop. It supports Photoshop file formats and RAW images, and allows working with multiple layers, effects, and filters. GIMP can be customized using Python or C/C++ plugins and can be called from the command line/terminal for batch editing.
Inkscape
Inkscape, a vector graphics editor, is a viable alternative to Adobe Illustrator. It works with Illustrator files and SVG files, and is used for creating diagrams, annotating images, and preparing SVG files for 3D printing.
Handbrake's Presets
Handbrake offers presets for easy use and can handle single files or multiple files in a queue with specific configurations. This makes it a convenient tool for users who want to perform tasks quickly without delving into complex settings.
VLC for Network Access
Lastly, VLC can be used to access media files stored on a network, such as a NAS, making it a versatile tool for managing media across devices.
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