Driver Update Reviews

With more than a few successful software applications under their belt, ParetoLogic has mastered the art of the graphical user interface (GUI). DriverCure is a pleasure to use with ParetoLogic’s signature slick graphics, and clean, user-friendly layout. The program’s “System Restore Point” and “History Tool” are safety features that go above and beyond while the email notification feature that notifies users of new drivers available for their computer, is a stroke of sheer genius.

DriverCure goes all out by scanning an impressive array of hardware and peripherals (printers, keyboards, networking devices), quickly and accurately identifying relevant drivers and then seeking out updates for the drivers. Appropriate updates are downloaded seamlessly, and all you have to do is give the go-ahead. Sweet as this is, the fact that this software also scans all your software applications for updates makes this application a clear winner.

Nobody ever accused ParetoLogic of going halfway, a point that is proven in their dogged determination to offer every possible resource to their users. The database for DriverCure is impressive, assuring that even the most obscure brands and their accompanying drivers can be found. If you need any help, ParetoLogic has you covered with Help Files, FAQs, 24/7 Customer Support, and even a user Forum.

Installation is fairly simple though we found it somewhat annoying that we had to supply information about the computer, especially when Driver Detective already identified it correctly. The interface is intuitive and easy to use. All the user needs to do is click the “Scan Now” button and then click on the interactive results. If a driver is out of date, the user will be able to download updated device drivers.

Driver Detective boasts many useful features including detection of your hardware devices, driver updates, BIOS information, and reports. This software provides manufacturer-specific drivers for the devices on your PC and features a Vista Ready Upgrade Wizard which tests your hardware for compatibility with Vista, searches for Vista drivers, and creates a Vista device driver migration CD. Not as seamless as our second and first place applications, but nevertheless a contender.

Driver Detective comes with a comprehensive set of Help files covering each of the major features. In addition, users can sign into the Members area of the Driver Detective website.

Driver Genius offers an uncluttered user interface with the standard line-up of commands and features. Clearly labeled tasks including “Update Drivers”, “Uninstall Drivers”, “Options”, “Tools”, “LiveUpdate”, and “Help” make operation of the program simple enough. “Backup Drivers” and “Restore Drivers” functions represent the product’s safety features competently. All in all, this is an easy to use driver retrieval product that offers solid albeit basic function and safety features.

The Driver Genius software features several tools to help you manage your computer’s device drivers including a Driver Download Manager that allows you to easily manage and update your device drivers and a Device Diagnostics tool that helps you find malfunctioning devices and repair them. This application does require a little more effort and interaction on your part than our top pick, but it still does a good job and as such, sits comfortably in our runner-up spot.

Driver Genius comes with a LiveUpdate function which is useful for updating both the software and the drivers database definitions. Built-in help files are also useful. Their website features an online user’s guide, FAQs, and online support.