What is the best family tree program to buy? COMPLETED

[J D------]

As this is my first post on here and not sure how everything works. Hopefully some one might enlighten me along the way?

So could some one please tell me which is the best program to buy or is it better to try and find a free one via the web?

J.D.

[Roger The Hat]

Hi, J.D., and welcome.

Unfortunately no one can make the choice for you.

Each package has different looks/features that appeal to different users; it depends what you prefer.
I use an early version of Family Tree Maker that came free with a newspaper. I tried a newer payed-for version but I found there was little functional difference, so I still use the old one.

Try searching on the 'net for free demo's/trial's to find one that suits you.

'Hat.

[Berlin-Bob]

Hi J.D.

Welcome to RootsChat

As 'Hat has said, everyone has their favourite.
Have a look through some of these programs, to get a sample of opinions.

Topic: RootsChat Topics: Family History Software, Genealogy Programs
http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php/topic,158637.0.html

Try searching on the 'net for free demo's/trial's to find one that suits you.

Good idea !  enter a few details (10 people or so) in one program and export ithe results as a GEDCOM file. Then import this file into any other test programs.

good luck,
Bob

[J D------]

Thanks for the tips, but as i am no where near ready to play with gedcoms ( what ever they are) i was looking more for what people would recommend as i haven't a clue what is good and what is bad.

Thanks
J.D.

[Springbok]

Hi jewdrop,

Welcome to Rootschat

 You should find some suggestions and opinions if you go back to the main Technical Board.

Everyone has a favourite Family History programme. (and a GED.com  is only the basic format on which all  FH programmes are based).Nothing to worry about!

Have a look at one or two free downloads before you buy.Many have a free demo and whilst you won't be able to use all the facilities you should get a flavour of which suits you best.

Spring

[Redroger]

Welcome to Rootschat JD. As a variation of what pthers have suggested why not download the free version of Legacy 7, instal it and then if you like to use it upgrade to the paidfor deluxe version which costs $29.95 US. Very good value, and regularly upgraded. MANY ROOTSCHATTERS USE IT.

[J D------]

Thanks for all your tips, i will look at what you all have surgested and hopefully i make a good choice? I think i will try one of the free versions first and if i find it is not to difficult, then maybe up grade it later.

J.D.

[Redroger]

Sound move! Remember this site if you need further help.

[mike175]

I must put in a word for RootsMagic which is very easy to get started with but gets more powerful as you learn more about it. You can get a free version here:

http://www.rootsmagic.com/Essentials/

GEDCOM is really only a standardized file format for transferring data between different family tree programs . . . well, it's supposed to be standardized but most programs seem to add on their own extra bits which may not be recognised by others, although the basic information should always be ok.

Mike