Net Nanny's default setting filters fewer naughty sites than any major blocking package, but it's by far the easiest to customize and use. Unless you need CyberSitter's strict site filtering, go with Net Nanny.

$999.00 MSRP

Microsoft Office Project 2003

$99.00 MSRP

Apple GarageBand Jam Pack

GarageBand users who want more sounds and instruments are better off with Apple/M-Audio's USB MIDI keyboard.

$69.95 MSRP

Microsoft Digital Image Pro 10.0

On the expensive side but easy to use and ideal for turning photos into creative projects.

$165.00 at Amazon

Microsoft Office 2008 for Mac

Office for Mac 2008 may be the best pick for business users, but most people can get by with less costly alternatives.

Microsoft Money 2007

If you're using an earlier version of Microsoft Money, the 2007 updates may not tempt you to upgrade, unless the latest version's new budgeting abilities fit your needs.

$70.44 at Walmart

Microsoft Excel 2004 for Mac

$119.95 MSRP

Microsoft Word 2007

If you're ready to let go of old habits from previous versions of Word and want to make sleeker-looking documents, Microsoft Word 2007 is worth the upgrade. However, less-expensive alternatives handle its core features without the clutter.

$99.95 MSRP

Intuit QuickBooks 2009

Intuit QuickBooks Premier 2009 keeps the program's well-designed, intuitive interface, while adding a few new features. It's a worthy upgrade for people serious about online banking, and it remains the best accounting program for small business owners. However, Intuit should be more generous with customer support, particularly for setup issues.

$99.95 MSRP

QuickBooks Simple Start 2005

QuickBooks Simple Start is easy to learn, but the lack of budgeting, payroll, and Excel-import tools limits its usefulness. We recommend a more powerful accounting app, such as QuickBooks.

Editors' Choice

$399.95 MSRP

QuickBooks 2006

QuickBooks Premier 2006 is the best upgrade in years. Its slick new interface is the best in small-business accounting, and its accounting toolkit is easy to learn. Small but growing businesses should buy it.

Editors' Choice

$59.95 MSRP

TurboTax Deluxe 2008 Federal + State

TurboTax 2008 is the most expensive tax app on the market, but it's also fast, complete, and straightforward. If finishing quickly is your goal, the extra cost is worth it. If you anticipate wanting live help support, look into TaxCut.