For simple single-row panoramas, the most beginner-friendly options mentioned were Autostitch and Microsoft ICE. Autostitch is extremely simple: load images and choose output size. Microsoft ICE is also easy to use, but adds interactive controls like horizon, center point, and projection adjustments.

Hugin was also recommended by users who found it effective and mostly automatic once set up, but several people felt it has a steeper learning curve and a less polished interface than the simpler tools above. If you want the easiest start, try Autostitch or ICE first; if you want more control and are willing to learn, Hugin is a solid option.

A few shooting tips matter as much as the software:

• Shoot in manual exposure so every frame matches.
• Keep the camera level and aligned as well as you can; a tripod helps, but you can start without a dedicated pano head.
• If your scene includes straight architectural lines, pay attention to projection and alignment choices in the stitching software.

In short: for the easiest beginner experience, start with Autostitch or Microsoft ICE; for more flexibility, Hugin is a good next step.