by Ken Knepple 

I wanted to do a review on this piece of software because it seemed to be interesting and have a little bit of a personality. Another bonus is that the HTML Editor also has a free version, and it is well documented that free to me is good. You can find the CoffeeCup HTML Editor 8 at www.CoffeeCup.com. Another reason I wanted to review the software is because the developers of this application seem to be high on customer service which is obvious just after visiting their web site.

The HTML Editor 8 is a fairly decent size application weighing in at 17.91 MB which compared to other editors I have looked at is fairly slim. When installing on to your computer make sure your speakers are turned down. The application plays a little jingle that says “I like coffee in a cup” that took me totally by surprise. When you start the application up for those beginners out there it offers a tip of the day which can easily be shut off by clearing a checked box. Now I do want users to beware that there is also a full version out there available to purchase for $49.00. In fact you can buy everything CoffeeCup has to offer for under $600. The trial version gives the code editor and the page preview area but the visual editor is going to cost extra.

This software application will allow you to create basic Web pages for you and help you upload them to your Web site. There are a number of nice tools that I wish the trial version did offer like a Flash Form Builder, and a Google SiteMapper. If you are an expert site builder you need to stay away from this product. This application is meant for someone who is looking to build a personal site or a site for their family to use and does not have a whole lot experience. This software is not meant for you to learn HTML, or to maintain an existing site. There is no way to view the HTML or even open files that are not saved in the CoffeeCup Free HTML editor format.

Did I just lose 90% of my viewing audience I hope not. If you are an expert and you do have friends and family that constantly need you for your expertise and you simply do not have the time tell them to spend a few nights with the CoffeeCup software. The interface would give them an area to test out what color backgrounds look good with various text colors. The software also would show them the proper way to use XHTML, and PHP tags. The interface is very easy to work with. You can insert pictures, sounds, and tables with the just a few clicks of the mouse. Plus this would give them or you an endless amount of previews so if they design a little they can check out how it looks and sort of create a comfort zone for themselves.

I come away impressed that this tool is out there for the beginner, and if you are an expert and don’t have time to help out Uncle Mike with his personal website I would think it is a good idea to suggest this to him. Coming from a company that excels in customer service it is nice to see another company like CoffeeCup hold customer service as a high priority.