Downloadable Software
Another category of reader is the downloadable application. These are by far the most sophisticated systems - as stand alone applications they should be. Some of these products do cost money, but not very much. I have not purchased these applications so I cannot vouch for their quality. Personally, I use Google's tools, (all three versions) and I've messed around with the online and browser based tools. I can't imagine what else I'd need to do with RSS feeds that I would need a dedicated application. But if you're a serious news junkie you may need such a tool.
NewsGator (www.newsgator.com) - Newsgator offers several versions of their application. They are available for both Mac and PC. It's priced between $20 - $30 with a free 30 day trial.
GreatNews (www.curiostudio.com) - GreatNews (PC only) is free, but it's still in beta.
KlipFolio (www.serence.com) - This software (PC only) is a modular desktop RSS dashboard, available for free download. It is probably the smallest and most customizable solution available, and with many different skins, it's definitely the most stylish. One advantage to KlipFolio is that you can have a new module for each RSS feed you add. Each module can be sized and shaped however you like. Giving different sources different looks can help you visually parse through your incoming information.
For more information about Feed Readers check out a recent article on Techcrunch - www.techcrunch.com/2006/03/30/the-state-of-online-feed-readers.
