With Flash video still the most popular format available on the Net, Softonic has loads of programs designed to help users download and convert FLV and SWF movies to a more usable format (such as AVI). Freez Flv to AVI/MPEG/WMV Converter tackles the conversion side of this operation, but unfortunately, it leaves a lot to be desired.

While the program is technically free, it constantly prompts and pesters users into visiting the developer's website, for no reason. The irritating 'There may be an update on our website' dialog box actually means nothing because this program isn't equipped with an update-checking service. For this reason, I've classified the software as 'Adware': true freeware doesn't pester the user like this.

The functionality of Freez Flv to AVI/MPEG/WMV Converter is limited to say the least. It allows you to convert any .FLV file to AVI, MPG or WMV and gives you some control over video encoding settings like frame rate and bit rate. Unfortunately, we found that choosing the wrong settings will result in not only a failure to convert the file correctly, but also Windows Explorer will crash: a pretty serious failing.

When we did manage to convert a file successfully, the end result was perfectly satisfactory. But given that we had the Explorer Shell (including the Start Menu and Task Bar) crash on us four times during testing, we cannot recommend use of this application. The program also doesn't include standard window menus or buttons, an irritating design choice.

Freez Flv to AVI/MPEG/WMV Converter is a poorly designed tool for converting popular video formats. When it works, it works well. But most of the time, it's liable to causing major system processes to crash. Not recommended.