Let's begin with NVDA which is an open source screen reader for Windows XP and Vista.
NVDA comes in two formats, one for direct install on a computer and another that can be
run from a thumb drive. Here is the link: NVDA.
Another free screen reader that is available for download is called Thunder. You can
download Thunder at this link: Thunder.
System Access to Go is very intriguing. It includes speech and screen magnification
and is very well developed, with many useful options. They have several payment
options or you can pay the full price: $399.00 to $499.00 (depending on included options).
Go to this site for more information and download options: Serotek.
If you are in need of screen magnification, you might give Magic Lens Max a try.
You can go to the site and download a 30 day demo. If you like it, the cost is only $39.95.
Their website is Visionsuit.com.
For a screen magnification program with a few more features, such as optional speech
(SAPI 4 and 5 compliant) check out iZoom. Their site also offers a downloadable demo
and if you decide to purchase it, the cost is $199.00. They also have a free downloadable
magnification program to use with the Internet. You can visit them at iZoom.com.
Desktop Zoom is a very nice freeware program with variable magnification and speech.
You can download it from Here.