As an avid user of open-source software since the late 1990s, I’ve grown accustomed to relying on free and often fantastic applications. However, there are some open-source titles that go above and beyond, making them worth paying for. Here are seven such apps that I’d gladly pay for due to their exceptional quality and usefulness.
Docker is a game-changer for developers and administrators alike. This powerful containerization platform allows users to deploy applications quickly and easily, saving time and effort. With Docker, you can spin up containers with just a few commands and access your services instantly.
VirtualBox is another indispensable tool in my digital arsenal. As a virtual machine manager, it enables me to create, manage, and switch between multiple operating systems with ease. Whether I need to test new OS versions or simply run an old favorite, VirtualBox has got me covered.
OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is an incredibly powerful live streaming tool that’s surprisingly free. With its intuitive interface and robust features, OBS makes it easy to create high-quality streams from your desktop. From solo live streams to multi-source productions, OBS is the ultimate broadcast studio for content creators.
Nextcloud is a pioneering open-source project that’s helped me transition away from the Google ecosystem. This self-hosted cloud solution allows me to deploy applications on my local network, keeping my data private and secure. With Nextcloud, I can access and manage files like I would with Google Drive – but without sacrificing my security.
Zen Browser is a magnificent web browser that should have been released years ago. With its sleek design, powerful features, and efficient performance, Zen Browser has become my go-to choice for browsing the web. Its customizability and theming options make it a joy to use, and I’d gladly pay for this fantastic browser.
KDE Plasma is a stunning Linux desktop environment that’s both beautiful and functional. With its sleek interface, intuitive controls, and powerful features, KDE Plasma is an exemplary example of what a modern desktop should be. Its flexibility and user-friendliness make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a seamless desktop experience.
Jellyfin is a versatile media server that enables users to stream multimedia content across their local network. With its user-friendly interface and robust feature set, Jellyfin makes it easy to share music, movies, TV shows, books, photos, and even live TV recordings with family and friends. Its ease of use and flexibility make it an essential tool for anyone looking to enjoy their media collection at home.
These seven open-source apps have won me over with their exceptional quality and usefulness. Whether I need a powerful containerization platform, a robust virtual machine manager, or a fantastic live streaming tool, these applications deliver. If they were available as paid software, I’d be more than happy to support them – in fact, I already do!
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/7-open-source-apps-id-honestly-pay-for-because-theyre-that-good