GEDCOM (Genealogical Data Communication) is a file format used for storing and exchanging genealogical data between different software programs. It is a standard format that allows users to easily transfer their family tree data from one software program to another.
There are several GEDCOM file viewer software available for Windows PC that allow users to view and analyze their family tree data. In this article, we will explore the 8 best free GEDCOM file viewer software for Windows PC. These software programs are easy to use, feature-rich, and can help users in analyzing and understanding their family tree data. Whether you are a genealogy enthusiast or a professional genealogist, these software programs can be extremely helpful in your research.
In this guide, we will discover the 8 Best FREE GEDCOM File Viewer Software for Windows PC.
Let’s go,
1. GEDCOM Viewer
As the name suggests, GEDCOM Viewer is a family tree viewer, and it is an excellent one. You can open all the GEDCOM files seamlessly with this tool. The tool doesn’t modify any content of the original GED files, which is why genealogy scientists prefer this tool.
It asks you to select a person you want to see the family tree. When choosing a person, the tool displays their parents and grandparents. You can get a lot done with this tool as you learn it.
2. Notepad++
Notepad++ is a widely used tool for viewing and editing GEDCOM files. The tool does not natively support GEDCOM files, but you can install a plugin and seamlessly access and edit GEDCOM files. The process can be a little slow and involves some learning, but once you get the hang of it, this tool is the best.
3. Gedcom Lexer Plugin for Notepad++
Gedcom Lexer Plugin for Notepad+ is easily one of the best GEDCOM file viewers on the list. All you have to do is install this plugin along with your Notepad++, and your Notepad++ text editor can efficiently process GEDCOM files.
It has the remarkable feature of presenting tree structure and highlighting the syntax in colors. The plugin also allows you to customize colors, fonts, and styles. If you are a hobbyist, this tool will serve you well.
4. GedPad Pro
GedPad Pro is a decent GEDCOM file viewer with all the essential features you need to access a GED file. The best thing is that this tool can also edit your GED files to some extent.
For instance, you can change fonts and text styles with this tool. Another remarkable feature of the tool is its advanced encoding techniques. Because of that, it can analyze family trees more efficiently. So make sure to give it a try.
5. GedView
If you are looking for a GEDCOM file viewer that offers seamless portability, check out GEDView. It is a free and easy-to-use GED file viewer. To run the tool, you simply have to extract it in a folder, and you are all set.
Accessing GED files is seamless with this tool. Just click on family members from the list on the toolbar to view Descendants, Ancestors, mitochondrial DNA, Y chromosome, and other helpful information for the person. The only catch is that you can only read GED files with this tool and can’t make any changes. So this tool is best suited for hobbyists who like to view family trees.
6. GenViewer Lite
GenViewer Lite is a feature-rich GEDCOM file viewer packed in a compact size. At a mere 870KB, it is one of the lightest programs on the list. But don’t let the tiny size misguide you.
The tool lets users view GEDCOM files and other formats like PAF, SUB, TMG, PJC, FTW, FBK FDB, and XXX. With the free version, you can view the files in the General, Individual, and Family tabs which is more than enough.
7. GRAMPS
GRAMPS stands for Genealogical Research And Management Programming System. This is one of the best GEDCOM file viewers on the list, primarily because of its clean and modern interface. It is entirely free, and anyone can access this tool.
As a hobbyist, you can record every significant moment of your life with this tool. All you have to do is visit the site and get a detailed understanding of how the tool works. Then you can start recording everything yourself.
8. GenealogyJ
If you are looking for a free GEDCOM file viewer, then GenealogyJ will be very handy. It is a free genealogical data viewer and editor. Since this is a Java-based program, you must have Java on your computer. It allows you to open any GEDCOM file easily.
Then it also comes with many interactive ways to display data, including Family Trees, Tables, Geography, Timelines, etc. It is an easy choice for anyone from a genealogy researcher to a hobbyist. So make sure to check it out.
