Your choice will be determined by two primary factors:
- Computer Type (PC or Mac)
- What Operating System (OS) you are running on your computer
- Cost
Mac users unfortunately have a limited choice.
PC users may choose from a large range of genealogy programmes ranging from basic versions to fully featured versions.
Operating Systems
Most PC based computer programmes are designed to run on Windows operating systems. Generally the programmes are designed to run on several Windos versions - the most common being Windows 95, XP, Vista & Windows 7.
Mac users have a limited choice but the very popular Family Tree maker (FTM) will soon release a Mac version of their programme.
Cost
Genealogy programme costs range from free to expensive. Like most things you pay for what you get.
Free programmes provide a basic entry into creating a family tree - no bells and whistles and limited (if any) ability to manipulate the information you record.
Some 'free' programmes offer the ability to upgrade to a fully featured version by payment of a fee. You can use these free (basic) versions to evaluate the programme before you decide to upgrade (buy).
Paid programmes regularly go through several stages of development. Most providers charge a fee to move to the next version of the programme, so you need to be careful when choosing software and ensure that minor upgrades are not subject to a fee. You should only pay for major upgrades.
Most Popular Genealogy Programmes (There are many more than listed here - a web search will locate others):
PAF (Personal Ancestry File) - PC - free software sponsoired by the LDS Church
Legacy - PC - free basic version upgrade to fully functional version approx US$30.00
Family Tree Maker - PC - full version only; approx AU$60.00 - AU$100.00 (Soon to release a Mac version)
RootsMagic - PC - free trial version. full version approx US$50.oo
Reunion - Mac - free demo version. Full version approx AU$175.00
PAW2U - Mac - free
Whatever programme you choose you should first look at all the alternatives and where possible try the demo and trail versions to see what best suits you. The most popular programmes all do the same job but vary slightly in the way they accomplish common tasks.