In today’s world, software is almost as important as electricity. From the moment you wake up and check your phone to the time you finish work on your laptop, you’re using apps and programs that make life easier and help you stay connected. The most used software didn’t get popular by accident they earned their place by solving real problems. These tools help billions of people talk, work, create and have fun every day.
The software world in 2025 shows how much technology has changed to meet our needs. Whether you are a student doing homework, someone working from home or just trying to keep in touch with family and friends, the most used software has something for everyone. Some of these programs help your phone or computer run smoothly, while others use AI to help you write or come up with new ideas. Let’s see what makes each one cool and why so many people use them every single day.
Table of Contents
Comparison of Top 10 Most Used Softwares
| Sr | Name | Rating | Pricing | Compatibility | Features |
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| 1 | Microsoft Windows | Paid | Windows, Desktop, Laptop |
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| 2 | Android | Free | Android phones, Tablets, Smart devices |
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| 3 | iOS | Free | iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch |
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| 4 | macOS | Free | Mac computers, MacBook, iMac |
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| 5 | Microsoft 365 | Paid | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Web-based |
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| 6 | Google Workspace | Freemium | Web-based, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
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| 7 | Zoom | Free version (40-min limit),Pro: $149.90/user/year,Business: $199.90/user/year,Enterprise: Custom pricing | Windows,Mac,iOS,Android,Linux,Web |
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| 8 | Google Chrome | Free | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome OS |
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| 9 | Visual Studio Code | Free | Windows,Mac,Linux |
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| 10 | ChatGPT | Freemium | Web-based, iOS, Android |
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1. Microsoft Windows: The ubiquitous desktop operating system, powering work and play
Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Windows is kind of like the base of your computer the thing that helps everything else run. It’s the main program that gets your computer started and lets you use all your other apps. You can think of it like the manager that keeps stuff organized, from opening your photos to getting online. It’s been around for a really long time and is still one of the most used software out there. Why? ‘Cause it just works well, feels familiar and can handle pretty much anything you throw at it.
Windows works for all kinds of people students, office folks, gamers and anyone using a laptop or desktop. You will spot it in schools, businesses and homes all over. It’s easy to figure out, even if you’re not a tech expert, but still strong enough to do the heavy stuff. Whether you are typing up homework, gaming with friends or running a company. Windows is the go to setup that helps you get it done, that’s why it the most used software in the world.
Key Features
- Easy-to-use desktop with Start menu and taskbar
- Built-in Microsoft Store for downloading apps
- Windows Defender antivirus protection
- Multiple desktop support for better organization
- Cortana voice assistant integration
- Regular security updates and improvements
- File Explorer for managing documents and folders
- Built-in web browser (Microsoft Edge)
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Works with almost all software and hardware
- Familiar interface that's easy to learn
- Great for gaming with excellent compatibility
- Strong business and enterprise features
- Regular updates and security patches
- Huge community support and tutorials
❌ Cons
- Can be expensive to purchase
- Sometimes gets slower over time
- Vulnerable to malware if not protected
- Updates can sometimes cause issues
- Uses more system resources than some alternatives
Device Compatibility:
Windows works on most desktops and laptops, including brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and even custom-built PCs. It is made for Intel and AMD processors. For smooth performance, your computer should have at least 4GB of RAM, but 8GB or more is better.
Pricing & Plans:
Visit the official website and look for a “Pricing” or “Plans”.
2. Android: The world's most popular mobile OS, defining smartphone experiences
Android
Android runs most smartphones around the world. It is like the brain of your phone, helping you do stuff like texting, taking photos, watching videos or playing games. Google made Android free for phone companies to use, so brands like Samsung and LG can put it on their devices. That’s why Android shows up on all kinds of phones from low cost ones to expensive flagships. It is a big part of why Android keeps popping up on lists like Top Software in the World 2025 and the Essential Software List 2025.
What really makes Android one of the most used software platforms is how easy it is to use and customize. You can change how your phone looks, pick from tons of apps on the Google Play Store, and link it with stuff like Gmail, YouTube and Google Drive. And if you like having choices, Android gives you a lot of them. No surprise it is always at the top of Global Software Usage Trends 2025 and other lists for Popular Software Applications 2025. It is pretty much built for people who want their phones to work their way.
Key Features:
- Google Play Store with millions of apps
- Customizable home screens and widgets
- Google Assistant voice control
- Built-in Google services integration
- Multiple user accounts support
- Advanced notification system
- Split-screen multitasking
- Biometric security options
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Available on many different phone brands
- Highly customizable interface and features
- Huge selection of free and paid apps
- Great integration with Google services
- Regular security updates
- Supports widgets and live wallpapers
❌ Cons
- Can vary in quality between phone manufacturers
- Some apps might not be as polished as iOS versions
- Battery life can vary significantly
- Security depends on timely manufacturer updates
- Can feel overwhelming for non-tech-savvy users
Compatibility:
Android is the system that helps many phones and tablets work. Big brands like Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus and Xiaomi use it. But it’s not just for phones it’s also in smart TVs, smartwatches and other smart gadgets. That is why Android is so popular and useful all around the world.
Pricing: Free for Android user
3. iOS: Apple's elegant mobile ecosystem, renowned for seamless integration
iOS
iOS is Apple’s own system that runs on iPhones and iPads. It’s known for being super easy to use, fast and safe. Apple built iOS just for their gadgets, so everything fits together really well. When you’re using an iPhone, you’re using iOS it’s got that clean look, runs smooth and does not really need you to be a tech expert. It just works, that’s why so many people stick with it. And yeah, it’s kind of like the brain behind your iPhone that makes things run the way they should.
A big reason iOS made it into the most used software list is its strong reputation for being secure and reliable. Apple’s pretty picky about what apps go in the App Store, so the stuff you download is usually safe and works well. It’s a solid pick if you want something that’s simple but still does a lot. Plus, it plays really nice with other Apple stuff like Macs, AirPods and Apple Watches. So in the world of Top Software in the World 2025 and Popular Software Applications 2025, iOS totally earns its spot for giving users a smooth, trusted, all in one experience that just feels right.
Key Features:
- App Store with curated, high-quality apps
- Siri voice assistant integration
- Face ID and Touch ID security
- iMessage and FaceTime communication
- Control Center for quick settings
- AirDrop file sharing with other Apple devices
- Regular iOS updates for all supported devices
- Screen Time parental controls and usage tracking
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Excellent security and privacy protection
- Smooth performance and user experience
- High-quality apps with strict review process
- Regular updates for older devices
- Great integration with other Apple products
- Simple, intuitive interface
❌ Cons
- Only works on Apple devices (expensive)
- Less customization options than Android
- Limited file management capabilities
- Can't use alternative app stores
- Expensive to repair if damaged
- Some features restricted to newer devices
Device Compatibility:
iOS is the system that only works on Apple devices like iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch. It is made just for Apple products, so it runs really well on them. But you can’t use it on phones or tablets from other companies, which means you have fewer choices for devices.
Pricing:
- Unlike operating systems like Microsoft Windows, iOS is not sold separately. It’s Free for compatible devices.
4. macOS: Apple's creative desktop OS, beloved for its design and performance
macOS
macOS is the system that runs on Apple’s Mac computers kind of like Windows, but built the Apple way. It looks clean, runs fast, and plays super well with other Apple stuff like your iPhone and iPad. That’s a big reason why tons of students, artists and folks who care about design go for it. It’s steady, safe and really shines when you’re editing photos, making videos or messing around with music. If you are into creative work, macOS is one of the top software in the world 2025.
What really makes macOS stand out and land on so many essential software lists for 2025 is how smoothly it works with other Apple gear. You can start typing an email on your Mac, then finish it later on your iPhone without skipping a beat. Or copy something on your iPad and just paste it right into your Mac like magic. Pretty cool, right? It’s a great pick if you are already using Apple products, or just want something that’s powerful but not a pain to figure out. That’s why it keeps popping up on lists for most used software and popular software applications 2025. It is just that easy and smooth to use.
Key Features:
- Dock for easy app access and management
- Spotlight search for finding anything quickly
- Mission Control for managing multiple desktops
- AirDrop for wireless file sharing
- Time Machine automatic backup system
- Built-in apps like Safari, Mail, and Photos
- Handoff feature to continue tasks on other Apple devices
- App Store for downloading Mac applications
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Excellent build quality and reliability
- Great for creative work and design
- Strong security with fewer malware threats
- Seamless integration with other Apple devices
- Beautiful, intuitive user interface
- Long-lasting hardware with good resale value
❌ Cons
- More expensive than Windows computers
- Limited software compatibility compared to Windows
- Fewer gaming options available
- Hardware upgrades often not possible
- Smaller selection of available models
- Can be challenging for Windows users to adapt
Device Compatibility:
macOS runs exclusively on Apple Mac computers including MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac mini, and Mac Pro. It’s optimized specifically for Apple’s hardware and cannot be legally installed on non-Apple computers.
Pricing:
- For consumers, macOS is generally free. It comes pre-installed on all new Apple Mac computers, and major macOS updates are provided as free downloads for compatible Mac models.
5. Microsoft 365: The essential suite for productivity, cloud-connected and collaborative
Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is kind of like having your whole office in one place right on your computer or phone. It comes with everything you’d probably need for school, work, or just getting stuff done at home. You’ve got Word for writing, Excel for handling numbers and PowerPoint to make slideshows. There are other handy apps too. And here’s the cool part: it saves your files to the cloud by itself, so you can open them from anywhere and don’t have to stress about losing your work. It’s a big deal in the Top Software in the World 2025 list for a reason.
This all-in-one tool has become one of the Most used software because it makes working with others super simple. You can send stuff to friends or coworkers, and everyone can work on the same file at the same time. You’ll see their changes as they happen, which saves a ton of time. Whether you’re a student working on a class project, a teacher setting up a lesson or someone in business dealing with reports, it’s got what you need. It’s no wonder it’s leading in Global Software Usage Trends 2025 and showing up on every Essential Software List 2025.
Key Features:
- Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook included
- 1TB of OneDrive cloud storage
- Real-time collaboration on documents
- Works online and offline
- Microsoft Teams for video calls and chat
- Access to web versions of all apps
- Regular updates with new features
- Cross-device synchronization
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Industry-standard office applications
- Excellent collaboration features
- Large amount of cloud storage included
- Works on multiple devices simultaneously
- Regular feature updates and improvements
- Great integration between different apps
❌ Cons
- Monthly or yearly subscription cost
- Can be overwhelming for basic users
- Requires internet for full functionality
- Some advanced features have learning curve
- Subscription needed to access all features
- Can be slow on older computers
Device Compatibility:
Microsoft 365 works on Windows computers, Macs, iPhones, Android phones, and even in web browsers. It’s made to look and work the same on all devices, so you can start your work on one device and finish it on another without any problems.
Pricing:
For Home:
- Microsoft 365 Basic: $1.99/month or $19.99/year
- Microsoft 365 Personal: $6.99/month or $69.99/year
- Microsoft 365 Family: $9.99/month or $99.99/year
For Business (per user/month, paid annually):
- Microsoft 365 Business Basic: ~$6.00
- Microsoft 365 Business Standard: ~$12.50
- Microsoft 365 Business Premium: ~$22.00
For Enterprise (per user/month, paid annually):
- Microsoft 365 E3: ~$36.00
- Microsoft 365 E5: ~$57.00
6. Google Workspace: Cloud-first tools for seamless collaboration and productivity
Google Workspace
Google Workspace is Google’s set of tools made for work and getting things done. It helps people create, share, and work together on projects easily. You probably know some of the apps already—like Gmail for email, Google Docs for writing, Google Sheets for spreadsheets, and Google Slides for making presentations. All your stuff is saved in Google Drive, so you can get to your files from any device as long as you have the internet. And don’t worry about losing your work because it saves everything automatically.
What makes Google Workspace one of the most used software around is how easy and teamwork-friendly it is. Lots of people can work on the same file at once and watch each other’s changes happen live—it’s kind of like magic! It’s great for students doing group projects, teams working on presentations, or even families planning events. Plus, it’s free to use for personal stuff and works right in your web browser without having to install anything. That’s why it’s on the essential software list in 2025 and keeps topping the charts in global software usage trends.
Key Features:
- Gmail with custom domain support
- Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides for productivity
- Google Drive cloud storage and file sharing
- Google Meet for video conferencing
- Google Calendar for scheduling and planning
- Real-time collaboration on all documents
- Admin controls for business management
- Mobile apps for all major platforms
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Excellent real-time collaboration features
- Free version available for personal use
- Works entirely in web browsers
- Automatic saving prevents data loss
- Easy sharing and permission controls
- Great integration between all Google services
❌ Cons
- Requires stable internet connection
- Limited offline functionality
- Less advanced features than Microsoft Office
- Privacy concerns with Google's data collection
- Formatting can be limited compared to desktop apps
- Dependent on Google's service availability
Device Compatibility:
Google Workspace works on any device that has a web browser, like Windows, Mac, or Linux computers, and also on iPhones and Android phones. It also has special apps for phones and tablets to make it easier to use on touch screens.
Pricing:
Business Starter:
- Annual Plan: $7.00 USD
- Flexible Plan (monthly): $8.40 USD
Business Standard:
- Annual Plan: $14.00 USD
- Flexible Plan (monthly): $16.80 USD
Business Plus:
- Annual Plan: $22.00 USD
- Flexible Plan (monthly): $26.40 USD
Enterprise: Pricing is custom and requires contacting sales.
7. Zoom / Microsoft Teams / Google Meet: Connecting the world through video calls and teamwork
Zoom
Video chat apps like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet are some of the most used software in the world in 2025. They let you see and talk to people online, no matter where they are. These apps got super popular during the pandemic when everyone had to work and study from home. But they’re still important because they make it easy to have face-to-face talks without being in the same room. You can use them for family calls, work meetings, or online classes.
These platforms are part of the top software in the world 2025 because they make remote talking feel natural and simple. You can share your screen to show things, record meetings to watch later, and even have fun with virtual backgrounds. They’re great for students in online classes, workers teaming up from different places, and families who want to stay connected. Pretty much anyone who needs to work or chat with people far away finds these apps useful in global software usage trends 2025.
Key Features:
- HD video and audio calling
- Screen sharing and presentation tools
- Chat messaging during calls
- Recording capabilities for meetings
- Virtual backgrounds and filters
- Breakout rooms for small group discussions
- Calendar integration and scheduling
- Mobile and desktop apps available
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Easy to use with minimal setup required
- High-quality video and audio
- Support for large numbers of participants
- Screen sharing makes presentations simple
- Recording feature for reviewing later
- Work across different devices and platforms
❌ Cons
- Requires stable internet connection
- Can drain battery quickly on mobile devices
- Free versions often have time limits
- Audio/video quality depends on internet speed
- Security concerns with some platforms
- Can be tiring for long meetings (video fatigue)
Device Compatibility:
These video conferencing platforms work on Windows and Mac computers, iOS and Android smartphones and tablets, and through web browsers. Most also offer dedicated apps that provide better performance and features than browser versions.
Pricing:
While Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet all offer free basic versions, their paid plans vary in price, generally increasing with features like longer meeting durations, higher participant capacities, more cloud storage, and advanced functionalities such as recording, transcription, and integration with broader productivity suites.
8. Google Chrome: The dominant web browser, fast, secure, and feature-rich
Google Chrome
Google Chrome is a web browser. It’s kind of like your front door to the internet. You can use it to visit websites, watch videos, shop online or scroll through social media. Chrome is super fast, easy to use, and has a bunch of cool tools to make things simple. It’s like having a smart friend who shows you around the internet so you don’t get lost. No wonder it’s on the Top Software in the World 2025 list.
Chrome is one of the Most Used Software today because it works really well with other Google stuff. It also saves your bookmarks, passwords and history across all your devices. So if you save something on your laptop, you’ll see it later on your phone too. Handy, right? Whether you’re watching YouTube, doing homework or just looking up fun facts, Chrome has your back. That’s why it’s part of the Popular Software Applications 2025 and the Essential Software List 2025. It just makes life online easier.
Key Features:
- Fast browsing with quick page loading
- Sync across all your devices
- Built-in Google search and translation
- Thousands of extensions and add-ons available
- Incognito mode for private browsing
- Built-in password manager
- Automatic updates for security and features
- Developer tools for web development
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Very fast and responsive browsing
- Excellent sync across multiple devices
- Huge library of extensions available
- Strong security with regular updates
- Clean, simple interface
- Great integration with Google services
❌ Cons
- Can use a lot of computer memory (RAM)
- Google collects browsing data for advertising
- Battery drain can be significant on laptops
- Some privacy concerns with data collection
- Can slow down with too many tabs open
- Limited customization options
Device Compatibility:
Google Chrome works on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, and also on iPhones, Android phones, and Chromebooks. It looks and works the same on all devices, so browsing the internet feels easy and familiar everywhere.
Pricing:
- Google Chrome is a free web browser.
9. Visual Studio Code (VS Code): The developer's choice for versatile and powerful code editing
Visual Studio Code
Visual Studio Code, or VS Code as most people call it, is a simple program that helps people write computer code. It helps you build software, websites and apps. Think of it like a really good text editor that’s made just for people who code. It’s free, made by Microsoft, and has become super popular because it makes coding easier and more fun. Even people who are just learning to code love it. This most used software has pretty much taken over the coding world because it’s so easy to use and doesn’t cost anything. You’ll see it everywhere when people talk about Top Software in the World 2025.
VS Code is one of the most used software tools because it has lots of helpful features. It can finish your code for you, help you find and fix mistakes and works with almost every coding language you can think of. And honestly, it is perfect for students who are learning to code. It’s also great for professional developers who build big apps. Anyone who wants to create digital projects will love it. The Global Software Usage Trends 2025 show that this Popular Software Applications 2025 pick is not going anywhere soon. It’s become the top choice that makes the Essential Software List 2025 for good reason.
Key Features:
- Syntax highlighting for hundreds of programming languages
- IntelliSense code completion and suggestions
- Built-in Git version control integration
- Thousands of extensions and themes available
- Integrated terminal for running commands
- Debug tools for finding and fixing code issues
- Live Share for collaborative coding
- Customizable workspace and settings
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Completely free and open-source
- Lightweight but powerful features
- Huge extension marketplace
- Excellent Git integration
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Active community and regular updates
❌ Cons
- Can be overwhelming for complete beginners
- Requires learning curve for advanced features
- Can become slow with too many extensions
- Primarily designed for developers
- Some features require additional setup
- Not suitable for non-coding tasks
Device Compatibility:
VS Code works on Windows, Mac and Linux computers. There is also a web version called VS Code for the Web that you can use in a browser. It looks and works the same manner which system you use.
Pricing:
- Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is entirely free to download and use for both private and commercial purposes.
10. ChatGPT / Other Generative AI platforms: Revolutionizing content creation and intelligent interaction
ChatGPT
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Claude are kind of like super-smart friends you can talk to whenever you want. They help with writing, homework, stories, tricky questions, and even coding. You can ask them pretty much anything, and they’ll give you a quick, easy answer. It’s like having a really smart helper by your side who’s always ready to jump in. These tools have totally changed how people learn, work, and figure stuff out. And the best part? Anyone can use them.
That’s why they’re now some of the most used software out there. People all over the world use them every day. Students use them to get help with school, workers use them to write emails or plan stuff, and writers use them when they’re stuck. Even if you’re just curious about something, these tools can explain it in a way that makes sense. They’ve earned a top spot on the Top Software in the World 2025 lists and are a big part of the Global Software Usage Trends 2025. They’re easy to use, super helpful, and feel like having a smart buddy who never gets tired of helping out.
Key Features:
- Natural language conversation interface
- Help with writing, editing, and proofreading
- Code generation and programming assistance
- Question answering on virtually any topic
- Creative writing and brainstorming support
- Language translation capabilities
- Image generation (some platforms)
- Integration with other apps and services
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Available 24/7 for instant help
- Can assist with a huge variety of tasks
- Easy to use with natural conversation
- Great for learning and education
- Helps overcome creative blocks
- Free tiers available on most platforms
❌ Cons
- Can sometimes provide incorrect information
- May not have access to current events
- Quality varies between different platforms
- Paid features often required for best experience
- Potential for over-dependence on AI assistance
- Privacy concerns with data sharing
Device Compatibility:
Most AI platforms can be used in web browsers on any device, like computers, phones or tablets. Many also have apps for iPhones and Android phones. Some even let other programs connect to them using something called an API.
Pricing:
ChatGPT offers a free tier, with ChatGPT Plus costing $20/month and ChatGPT Pro at $200/month, while other generative AI platforms generally use token-based pricing for API access (e.g., input/output tokens in USD per million tokens) or project-based costs ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars for custom solutions.
Vijay Datt is a website developer, software expert, and SEO specialist. He writes about the latest software, graphic design tools, and SEO strategies. With expertise in web development and image creation, he helps businesses grow online. His articles provide valuable insights to enhance digital success.
