Lab

Desktop search

Desktop search isn't a new invention (and anyone who remembers Lotus Magellan for DOS knows that the concept predates even Windows), but it is a necessary one, with ever larger hard disks costing ever less and being filled to capacity ever more quickly courtesy of cheap broadband connectivity. One thing's for sure: Windows Search isn't up to the job, so what is?

It's all too easy to fall into the trap of assuming that because Google rules over the web search domain it must be the best choice on the Desktop. Or, you assume that all Desktop search clients are free and do much the same thing in much the same way, so you download and play with them all instead of mastering one.

The truth is that markets, technologies and brands can change very quickly in the information age. Google should know that all too well, rising from nothing to everything in a few short years. It certainly doesn't have a stranglehold over the Desktop search space, nor is it innovating here as it did online early on. Instead, dozens of companies big and small are making a serious play for your Desktop, your data and ultimately your dollars.

The problem is deciding which is best for you, and avoiding the mistake of investing time and data in the wrong solution. We can only make recommendations based upon the average user requirement of a Desktop search application, because ultimately we all have different requirements. However, everyone needs one to find what they want, when they want without breaking their PC in the process. By applying our usual tough Labs-testing policy, we can reveal the strengths and weaknesses that will help you reach the right decision.