What Is Lifehacker Used For: Features, Reviews & Alternatives
Tips, tricks, downloads for getting things done.
Editorially updated Oct 5, 2025
The overview
What Lifehacker is for
1Core Capabilitie
- Categorized article archive for browsing by topic (e.g., Windows, Mac, Linux, Productivity, DIY)
- Site-wide search bar with keyword filtering for locating specific guides or software review
- Downloadable utility links for direct access to recommended software or script
- Step-by-step tutorial format with numbered instructions and embedded screenshot
2Specialized Workflow
- "How-To" series deep dives offering multi-part guides on complex topic
- "App Directory" for curated, editor-vetted software lists across various task
- Reader tips submission portal for community-contributed hacks and solution
- Dedicated "Downloads" section for custom scripts, templates, and pre-built solution
Who it helps
Useful ways to use Lifehacker
A practical path
Locating a 'How-To' Guide via Search
A user lands on the homepage or arrives via a search engine query (e.g., 'how to remap keyboard shortcuts Windows 11'). They utilize the site's prominent search bar to input their specific problem or desired outcome
External signals
Reviews & reputation
Aggregated review score
A long-standing authority for practical, actionable advice on software, productivity, and digital life. Valued for its clear, step-by-step tutorials and curated tool recommendations, though some users note occasional content bloat or dated articles.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
1How does Lifehacker fund its content production and remain accessible without a paywall?⌄
Lifehacker primarily generates revenue through display advertising, affiliate links for recommended products and software, and sponsored content partnerships. This model allows all core tutorial and advice articles to remain freely accessible to readers without requiring a subscription.
2Can I submit my own tips, tricks, or software recommendations to be featured on Lifehacker?⌄
Yes, Lifehacker maintains a 'Reader Tips' submission process. Users can send in their own productivity hacks, software discoveries, or unique solutions via a dedicated submission form or email address, which are then reviewed by editors for potential publication.
3Are the software downloads linked on Lifehacker always free or open-source?⌄
While Lifehacker frequently highlights free, open-source, or freemium software, it also recommends paid applications and services when they offer significant value or unique capabilities. Each recommendation typically specifies the licensing model and pricing structure where applicable.
4How frequently is new content published, and how can I stay updated?⌄
Lifehacker publishes new articles daily, often multiple times a day, across various categories. Users can stay updated by subscribing to the RSS feed, following Lifehacker's social media channels, or signing up for the daily/weekly email newsletter which curates recent popular posts.
5Does Lifehacker offer personalized recommendations or a way to save articles for later?⌄
Lifehacker itself does not offer personalized content recommendations or an integrated 'read later' feature. Users typically rely on browser bookmarks, third-party read-it-later services (like Pocket or Instapaper), or the site's search and category browsing to revisit content.
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