Switch Kit › Office alternatives › Switching to WordCraft
Switch Kit guide 11 · 15-page PDF
A free alternative to Microsoft Word: switching to WordCraft
WordCraft is a free, open-source word processor from the ArtCraft team, designed to feel familiar to people who use Microsoft Word software. This page sums up what you should know before switching; the guide takes you through a safe test with your own files.
Short answer
WordCraft is a free, open-source word processor that reads and writes DOCX, ODT, RTF and Markdown, with track changes, comments, compare and mail merge. It has no VBA macros and no native printing yet (you print via PDF). Test your own documents first (version 0.8, alpha).
Word vs WordCraft at a glance
| Word | WordCraft | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Microsoft 365 Personal: €99/year in Spain (US$99.99 in the US) | Free |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, mobile, web | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Formats | DOCX native, many others | DOCX, ODT, RTF, HTML, Markdown; .doc open only |
| Macros | VBA | None (preserved in .docm) |
| Printing | Native | Through the PDF viewer for now |
| Maturity | Industry standard | Alpha (v0.8), about 60% ready |
Prices are US or Spanish list prices checked on 31 October 2026 and vary by country. Maturity figures for ArtCraft apps are the developers' own estimates.
What to know before you switch
- Reads and writes DOCX, ODT, RTF, HTML, Markdown and plain text; opens .doc without saving it.
- Track changes, comments, document compare and mail merge from CSV or spreadsheets.
- PDF export with links and bookmarks.
- No VBA macros (they are preserved in .docm); charts read-only; SmartArt not editable.
- No native printing yet: print through the PDF viewer.
Facts checked on 31 October 2026. Prices and versions change; check the official sites.
Is it right for you?
A good fit if…
- You write letters, reports and CVs.
- You use Word mainly for DOCX files.
- You want to stop paying for an office subscription.
Better to wait if…
- You rely on macros, SmartArt or complex templates.
- Your work depends on Outlook mail merge.
How to switch from Word to WordCraft in five steps
- Check the fitRead what is ready and what is missing, and decide whether WordCraft suits your work today.
- Install from the official sourceDownload WordCraft only from the official site and verify the checksum. Keep Word installed for now.
- Run a five-file testOpen five real files from your own work, edit and export them, and note what changes.
- Use both for two weeksDo new, low-risk work in WordCraft while keeping Word for anything urgent.
- Time your subscriptionIf you decide to leave, cancel at the cheapest moment and download everything first.
The guide expands each step with checklists, a test sheet and a two-week plan.
Other free options worth knowing
This guide focuses on one alternative, but it is not the only one. These well-known options may suit you better depending on your work. See the full comparison of free Office alternatives.
LibreOffice Writer
Mature free, open-source word processor.
ONLYOFFICE
Free desktop editors with strong DOCX compatibility.
Word on the web
Microsoft's free browser version with a Microsoft account.
Inside the guide
The two tools at a glance · a self-assessment (good fit or better to wait) · what feels familiar and what is still in progress · a five-file compatibility test · plug-ins, AI and workflow notes · timing your exit from your subscription without surprise fees · protecting your work before you leave · safe installation · a gentle two-week migration plan · a printable checklist.
Printable A4 PDF in English · instant download · checklists you can tick · written by Julian Beaumont, 20 years of hands-on experience with creative and digital tools.
€7PDF, VAT included
Get the guide · €7Frequently asked questions
What is a free alternative to Microsoft Word?
Several exist; WordCraft is a new open-source option with a familiar layout. The guide includes a test with your own files.
Does WordCraft open DOCX files?
Yes, it reads and writes DOCX natively.
Does WordCraft support track changes?
Yes, along with comments and document compare.
Does WordCraft work on Mac and Linux?
Yes. WordCraft has builds for Windows, macOS and Linux, from getartcraft.com or the project's GitHub.
Is WordCraft safe to download?
Download it only from the official sources. Each release ships with SHA-256 checksums so you can verify the file; look-alike download sites exist.
Can I keep Word while I test WordCraft?
Yes, and the guide recommends it. Both can be installed side by side, so you test with real files before changing anything.
Next steps
Stopping Microsoft 365? Read what happens to OneDrive, Outlook and your files.
New to ArtCraft? Start with the free overview of all thirteen apps.
