Arguably one of the most popular desktop IRC client out there, mIRC is bursting at the seams with powerhouse features. Getting started with mIRC is easy, and once you’ve entered some basic details (e.g. nickname, email), and server information, you’re instantly connected. You can also connect to one of the many random global IRC servers pre-configured with mIRC, or specify your own.

mIRC’s robust feature set includes goodies like multiple configurable buddy lists, simultaneous file transfers, connections to multiple servers, customizable notification sounds, system tray notifications, and much more. In addition to that, mIRC also has a powerful scripting language that can be used create custom scripts for automating tasks, as well as performing functions such as network communications. mIRC is a shareware program that comes with a (technically) 30 day trial. However, even after that, you can still keep on using it, but you just have to put up with a splash screen for a few seconds, every time you launch mIRC.

Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.

Price: Shareware with 30 day trial. Splash screen displayed for a few seconds on every start-up, on further use. The screen can be removed by registering the program, and paying $20 for a single user license.