5 Best FTP Clients for Windows and Mac to Simplify File Transfer

The relevance of FTP technology may have diminished in recent years, but it still serves as a quick and efficient way to transfer files between devices and platforms. Whether you need to move files from PC to PC or PC to mobile, or if you're a web developer looking to transfer media files to your WordPress host, having a reliable FTP client is essential. With numerous options available, we've identified the five best FTP clients for Windows and Mac to streamline your file transfer process.

FTP Clients for Windows and Mac

FTP software is a must-have for anyone dealing with websites, file servers, or IT administration. A capable FTP client ensures smooth and hassle-free uploading and transferring of media files. Additionally, it should seamlessly integrate with popular third-party cloud storage services like OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox.

1. Cyberduck (Windows and macOS)

If you're new to FTP clients and don't want to invest in a paid option just yet, Cyberduck is the perfect choice. This open-source FTP client is available for both Windows and Mac and offers a wide range of features despite being free.

Cyberduck supports popular cloud storage services, including OneDrive, Google Drive, Amazon Drive, and Box. It also integrates with Cryptomator to encrypt your files for added security.

Pros:

• Cross-platform availability
• Open-source and free
• Support for third-party cloud storage services
• Integration with Cryptomator to encrypt files

Cons:

• Lack of dual-panel mode

Price:
Free to download and use. No strings attached.

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2. WinSCP (Windows)

WinSCP is a free FTP client exclusively designed for Windows. Despite its simple appearance, it packs a punch with its powerful features. It supports not only FTP but also SFTP, SCP, and WebDAV protocols for versatile file transfer capabilities.

In addition, WinSCP offers a command-line interface and script support, making it an excellent choice for power users who require advanced functionalities.

Pros:

• Multiple protocol support, including WebDAV, S3, SFTP, SCP, FTPS, and FTP
• Ability to create automatic rules for task automation
• File encryption support
• Support for multiple languages
• User-friendly interface compared to Cyberduck
• Free to download and use

Cons:

• No availability for Mac or Linux

Price:
Free to download and use.

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3. CuteFTP (Windows)

CuteFTP, owned by Globalscape, is a premium FTP client specifically designed for power users. Despite its higher price tag, the software offers robust features that make it worth the investment. It has been around since 1990 and has established itself as one of the top solutions for file transfer on Windows.

CuteFTP allows you to create automated scripts to perform tasks in the background without your intervention. It supports transfers via FTP/S, HTTP/S, and SFTP protocols and offers a drag-and-drop interface for seamless file management.

Pros:

• Excellent user interface
• Password manager add-on
• Ability to create automated scripts
• Support for FTP/S, HTTP/S, and SFTP transfers
• Drag and drop interface

Cons:

• Subscription-based offering

Price:
Free trial available, followed by a yearly subscription fee of $59.99.

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4. Transmit 5 (macOS)

Transmit 5 is a premium FTP client exclusively available for macOS. With its stunning user interface that seamlessly blends with macOS Big Sur, Transmit 5 offers a visually appealing and intuitive experience. It supports uploading, moving, and downloading files from various sources, including favorites like Box, Google Drive, and OneDrive.

Transmit 5 stands out for its blazing-fast speeds compared to other FTP clients. It also features a dual-pane interface for efficient file management.

Pros:

• Beautiful user interface
• Dual-pane interface
• One-time purchase option without a subscription
• Panic Sync function for secure data backup
• Support for large Amazon S3 file transfers

Cons:

• No one-time purchase option from the Mac App Store

Price:
7-day free trial available, followed by a one-time purchase fee of $45.

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5. ForkLift 3 (macOS)

ForkLift 3 is another macOS-exclusive file manager and transfer client available at an affordable price. It features a dual-pane interface and supports Google Drive and Amazon S3 for seamless file transfers to and from remote servers. Power users can also perform multiple transfers simultaneously.

Pros:

• Dual-pane interface
• Supports transfers via SFTP and FTP
• Multi-rename tool for batch file renaming
• Dark mode support

Cons:

• Occasional failed file transfers over 2GB

Price:
Free trial available, followed by a one-time purchase fee of $29.99.

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Manage Files With FTP Clients for Windows and macOS

Choose an FTP client that suits your needs from the list above and simplify your file management process. Beginners can start with Cyberduck, a free and open-source option available for both Windows and Mac. As your workflow becomes more demanding, you can consider paid solutions like CuteFTP and Transmit 5 for advanced features and enhanced performance.