EssentialPIM: Inexpensive Alternative to Outlook

used to review programs called "PIMs" (Personal Information Managers), and there were a lot of them. Today, to most people, "PIM" means "Outlook."

But there are still alternatives, like EssentialPIM. Astonsoft Ltd has just released EssentialPIM v. 3.0, which lets you enter and track your calendar and tasks, contacts, notes, and e-mail. The single-user version is $39.95, and the network edition is $49.95; portable and free, limited versions are also offered. Synchronization capabilities help you share data with platforms like Outlook, Windows Mobile Devices, iPod, and Palm. And it's available in several languages.


An attractive, intuitive interface lets you move among tools easily, and there's nothing difficult about using any of the modules. Click on the EPIM Today tab, and you can see an overview of today's schedule, tasks, and emails.

I suggest you check out the 30-day free trial.

EssentialPIM lacks some of Outlook's business contact management capabilities and its integration with other applications, but it can be a good alternative.