Apache OpenOffice Impress review
A free, open-source desktop option for presentations across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Apache OpenOffice Impress is a desktop presentation application in the Apache OpenOffice productivity suite. It is designed for individuals and teams that need free presentation software across Windows, GNU/Linux, and macOS. Its feature set covers multimedia presentations, animation and slide-show effects, drawing tools, 2D and 3D clip art, master pages, templates, and multiple working views. Presenter Screen support adds next-slide preview, timing, and speaker notes for live delivery.
Platform and file-format coverage are central strengths. Impress supports Windows, macOS, and Linux, while its native OpenDocument Presentation format provides an open file option. It can also import and export Microsoft PowerPoint .ppt and .pptx files, which makes it suitable for workflows that exchange presentations with PowerPoint users. Multiple-monitor support, outline and notes views, handout views, and multimedia capabilities broaden its use beyond basic slide creation. Flash .swf export is also included among its presentation features.
The trade-off is a narrower ecosystem than modern cloud presentation products. Real-time collaboration, external integrations, and AI features are not verified as part of the product offering. That makes Impress a practical choice for users who prioritize free desktop software, broad operating-system coverage, presenter controls, templates, and PowerPoint file compatibility. Organizations that need shared online editing, connected workflows, or AI-assisted presentation features should choose a product built around those capabilities instead.
Apache OpenOffice Impress pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free and open source across Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Imports and exports Microsoft PowerPoint .ppt and .pptx files
- Presenter Screen includes previews, timing, and speaker notes
- Where it doesn't
- No verified real-time collaboration features
- No verified integrations with external services
- No verified AI presentation features
Apache OpenOffice Impress fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update