By Brian Satterfield
(10/20/05)
The best things in life may be free, but most software isn't. Limited functionality, annoying adware, and pesky nag screens mean even most "free" software isn't actually without cost.
Don't give up, though--some gems are out there. Download.com's Desktop Enhancements category is a lot like a salad bar: there's something for everyone. If you enjoy seeing the Earth from an airplane window but have no upcoming travel plans, you'll get a lift from Holding Pattern Screensaver. If, on the other hand, you're bent on increasing your productivity, JetToolBar will help reduce the time you spend combing drives and folders. Then there's Konfabulator, which straddles the line between work and play with a collection of widgets that are both useful and amusing. Roll up your sleeves, put away your wallet, and take a gander at these 10 desktop enhancements.
Holding Pattern Screensaver
Get the same amazing views you'd get from an airplane window seat without the turbulence, chatty seatmates, or mystery-meat entrée. All that extra legroom isn't bad, either.
Toon Clock
Martha Stewart's head on an alien's body with the arms of Beelzebub? That's just one of the many kooky ways you can skin this animated clock, which also comes with more staid features such as alarms and time syncing.
CursorXP
Mouse cursors and pointers are inherently boring. That's why we like this customization tool, which transforms your cursor into candy canes, gears, and other fun images.
JetToolBar
If it's true that time is money, then it's smart to save as much of it as you can. This highly configurable organizational tool allows you to instantly access any file or program on your PC.
Rick's Picks Screen Saver
Taking you from the exotic beaches of Mexico to the scenic slopes of the Canadian Rockies, this assortment of professional-quality nature photos is certain to dazzle the eye.
Konfabulator
This collection of 16 elegantly designed programs (a.k.a. widgets) has all kinds of tricks up its sleeve. Find out the current phase of the moon, gauge a Wi-Fi signal, or get the local weather forecast.
TweakUI
Get under the hood of the operating system with this Microsoft-developed program, which lets hard-core geeks fine-tune aspects of their PC's appearance and behavior.
Bubbloids
Let this screensaver lull you into a trance, as bubbles of all sizes float across eight excellent-looking 3D backgrounds.
Qlock
This flexible utility lets you configure colorful world clocks and set alarms for multiple locations. Those friends in Tokyo will be glad when you stop accidentally calling at 3 a.m.
Iconoid
Change the text color of your desktop icons, quickly reposition them, or play Houdini and make them disappear altogether.
