5 paid apps you can replace for free
The full list from our post: what each tool replaces, what it does, how to start and the official link. All five are free to use.
rembg
Removes image backgrounds. Use it as a command line tool, a Python library, an HTTP server or a Docker container. MIT license.
How to start: Install it with Python (pip) or run the Docker image. The README has the exact commands.
Stirling PDF
50+ PDF tools: edit, merge, split, sign, redact, convert and more. Runs as a desktop app, in the browser, or on your own server, without sending documents to outside services.
How to start: Download the desktop app, or start it with a single Docker command (see the README).
Immich
Self-hosted photo and video backup with mobile and web apps, automatic background backup, duplicate prevention and search by faces, objects and metadata.
How to start: Runs with Docker Compose on a home computer or a small server. Our VPS guide shows how to set up a server step by step.
Upscayl
Free and open source AI image upscaler for Windows, macOS and Linux. It enlarges and enhances low-resolution images with AI models.
How to start: Download the installer for your system from the releases page on GitHub.
n8n
Workflow automation and AI agents with a visual editor plus custom code, 1500+ integrations and 9,000+ templates. Fair-code license: free to self-host.
How to start: Self-host it with Docker. Our VPS guide has a working n8n example.
Want to run these 24/7? See the VPS guide on this site (it contains referral links: I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you). One new free tool every day on Instagram and Facebook: @freetooldailyia.