Best free apps for Mac & iOS

From powerful desktop publishing software to easy-to-use video tools, there’s something for everyone in our no-cost software collection

You’ve already spent a lot of money for the privilege of using a Mac, iPhone or iPad. Do you really have to hand over even more of your cash to get apps that’ll push the hardware? The answer is no, of course.

There’s a top-notch selection of free software available on the internet and in the App Store. Whether you want to create an illustration or a publication, plug some functionality gaps in macOS or iOS to work better for you, or you want to use your kit in more parts of your daily life, there is – to paraphrase Apple – (probably) a free app for that.

We asked two long-term Apple users, both of whom have been using and writing about Macs for decades, to identify the cream of the crop. Over the following 11 pages, discover their choices and why you should download them.