While countless free apps grace the digital landscape, some tasks genuinely benefit from the reliability and convenience that paid software offers. Here are a few essential paid applications I rely on daily for my Windows 11 setup, transforming my computing experience.
Unlock Your Windows Potential with Paid Software
Paying for software can elevate your Windows 11 experience with enhanced customization and security.
- Object Desktop offers 11 tools for deep Windows customization, including Start11 for a classic Start Menu.
- A paid VPN is crucial for online security and privacy, with Nord, Mullvad, and ProtonVPN recommended.
- GlassWire provides essential network monitoring and firewall control for app activity.
- BitWarden is a top-tier password manager, with its paid version adding valuable authenticator features.
- Adobe Photoshop remains the industry standard for image editing, despite its subscription cost.
What are the best paid apps for Windows 11?
Object Desktop, a suite from Stardock, provides 11 distinct tools to deeply customize your Windows 11 interface. Among these, Start11 is a standout, allowing you to ditch the default Windows 11 Start Menu for designs reminiscent of Windows 7, Windows 10, or entirely new layouts.
The suite includes:
- CursorFX: For creating custom mouse cursors.
- Deskcapes 11: A desktop background manager for animated backgrounds.
- DesktopGPT: Access to ChatGPT directly from your desktop.
- Fences 11: Organizes desktop icons into labeled “fences.”
- Groupy 2: Groups applications into tabbed interfaces.
- Multiplicity KM: A software KVM switch for managing multiple PCs.
- ObjectDock: A customizable dock for Windows, similar to macOS.
- SkinStudio 11: Customizes the appearance of windows.
- Start11: Offers alternative Start Menu designs.
- Tiles 2: Advanced virtual desktop controls.
- WindowBlinds 11: Customizes taskbar, Start menu, and window appearances.
These tools collectively allow for significant changes to your PC’s look and feel. While Linux offers even more customization, Object Desktop brings Windows respectably close.
Start11, specifically, is a personal favorite. It effectively restores a usable Start Menu experience, a feature I deeply appreciate.
Object Desktop typically costs around $50 annually, but sales can make it more affordable. Start11 is a more budget-friendly $10.
Why a Paid VPN is Non-Negotiable
I always pay for a Virtual Private Network (VPN). While many VPNs exist, opting for a paid service offers essential security and privacy. Look for multi-year deals to significantly reduce the cost.
A VPN adds a critical layer of security, especially on untrusted networks. Reputable VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, making it virtually impossible for others to monitor your online activities.
Services like Nord, Mullvad, and ProtonVPN are reliable choices. Always check for independent, third-party audits to verify their security practices and data handling policies before subscribing.
GlassWire: Your Network Watchdog
Constantly testing new software requires monitoring its network behavior. GlassWire has been my go-to for years to track which applications access the internet and where they connect.
GlassWire also simplifies controlling application internet access compared to the default Windows Firewall. Once an app is tested, I typically block its internet access entirely. A personal plan is available for $36 annually.
BitWarden: Essential Password Management
As online accounts multiply, robust password managers become indispensable. BitWarden is a powerful option that is largely free, but its $10 annual subscription unlocks an encrypted cloud vault, priority support, and an authenticator function.
While I don’t frequently use the vault, the built-in authenticator is incredibly convenient. Supporting the company for the value they provide is well worth the small yearly fee.
Adobe Photoshop: The Unrivaled Image Editor
Adobe Photoshop is so dominant in its field that its name has become synonymous with image editing itself. It’s one of the few premium software applications I consistently pay for due to its unparalleled capabilities.
For nearly any image manipulation task, Photoshop likely has a built-in tool. If not, a vast library of plugins and tutorials offers solutions. While I generally champion free and open-source software, Photoshop remains in a league of its own.
Its pricing can be complex: $23 per month for Photoshop alone, $20 per month for Photoshop and Lightroom, or $70 per month for the full Creative Cloud suite.
While open-source alternatives exist for some paid applications, the convenience and reliability of paid software often justify the cost.
