JDownloader download manager review (2024)

TechRadar Verdict

Performance issues, weird download format and optional bundleware aside, JDownloader is superb for anyone who downloads large numbers of files.

Pros

  • +

    Remote control option

  • +

    Completes CAPTCHA forms for you

  • +

    Add-ons expand program capabilities

Cons

  • -

    Adware-laden installer

  • -

    Can be slow to start and memory-hungry

  • -

    Extensions can be flaky

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Download managers have a rather different role than a few years back. They used to be about using simultaneous downloads to max out a weedy dialup connection, but with the majority of people enjoying high-speed broadband, this is less important. Now the focus is rather different.

JDownloader

JDownloader download manager review (1)

Where to download:http://jdownloader.org/

Type: Download manager

Developer:AppWork

Operating system: Windows, Mac, Linux

Version:2

JDownloader is a free, open source tool that makes it quicker and easier to download files from hosting sites. This means that the likes of Mega, Rapidshare and so on are no longer a pain – even if they feature irritations such as CAPTCHAS and time limits before download links can be clicked. JDownloader can automate the entire process for you – just provide the initial link and everything else will taken care of for you. Downloads can be paused and resumed, transfers can be scheduled, and as an added bonus the program is available for multiple platforms.

The download of JDownloader itself is a bit annoying because the installer is hosted on Mega, and is supplied in RAR format. Mega tries to get you to install its own download software, and not everyone will have the software required to decompress the RAR file. On top of this, the installer tries to coax you into install Avast Antivirus software; it might be a great security tool, but bundleware like this is never welcome.

User experience

While JDownloader may initially look a little intimidating, in practice it's wonderfully simple to use. A clipboard monitor means that as soon as you copy a URL it is automatically analysed and added to the program. Thanks to this, you can set about collecting a large number of links and set them to download in one batch.

JDownloader is a real time saver thanks to the number of things it can automate for you, and the remote access option is a very nice touch for monitoring large downloads while away from your computer. Reducing hosted file downloads to a single click is praise-worthy indeed.

Latest updates

The latest version of JDownloader features improved performance and several minor bug fixes. For full details, see the JDownloader change log.

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JDownloader download manager review (2)

Sofia Elizabella Wyciślik-Wilson

Freelance writer

Sofia is a tech journalist who's been writing about software, hardware and the web for nearly 25 years – but still looks as youthful as ever! After years writing for magazines, her life moved online and remains fueled by technology, music and nature.

Having written for websites and magazines since 2000, producing a wide range of reviews, guides, tutorials, brochures, newsletters and more, she continues to write for diverse audiences, from computing newbies to advanced users and business clients. Always willing to try something new, she loves sharing new discoveries with others.

Sofia lives and breathes Windows, Android, iOS, macOS and just about anything with a power button, but her particular areas of interest include security, tweaking and privacy. Her other loves include walking, music, her two Malamutes and, of course, her wife and daughter.

You can find her on Twitter and Mastodon.

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JDownloader download manager review (2024)

FAQs

JDownloader download manager review? ›

JDownloader is a real time saver thanks to the number of things it can automate for you, and the remote access option is a very nice touch for monitoring large downloads while away from your computer. Reducing hosted file downloads to a single click is praise-worthy indeed.

Is the JDownloader browser extension safe? ›

It is pretty good, reliable, fast and battle-tested. The code is partially open source (according to wikipedia), therefore only the reviewable code is potentially secure (assuming people review the code).

Is the internet download manager better than the JDownloader? ›

For All Industries, JDownloader is a better choice. If you are confused between Internet Download Manager or JDownloader, you can also check if the software has customizable modules for your industry. Industry-specific functionalities will ensure higher efficiency and ROI.

Why do people use JDownloader? ›

JDownloader is a free, open-source download management tool with a huge community that makes downloading as easy and fast as it should be.

Is JDownloader legal? ›

Is it illegal to use JDownloader? Using JDownloader, a legitimate download management tool, is not illegal.

Is JDownloader an adware? ›

The JDownloader installation contains adware according to several sources, including the developer's own forums.

Does JDownloader work with Chrome? ›

Install our software extension "Open in JDownloader" Once you install our software, please refresh all your existing Chrome Tabs/close Chrome browser and restart Chrome browser. Choose the file you wish to download with JDownloader via the right click context menu button.

Which browser has the best download manager? ›

List of Best Browsers for Downloading:
  • Opera.
  • Mozilla Firefox.
  • Google Chrome.
  • Microsoft Edge.
  • Brave Browser.
Feb 6, 2024

Can I trust Internet Download Manager? ›

IDM is one of the most popular Download manager for Windows. Rest assured, it is perfectly safe. I have been using it since many years. The context of HP support must be that apps outside the Store have a slight risk of malware.

Why is my JDownloader so slow? ›

Especially for faster internet connections, older HDDs can be the bottleneck when it comes to downloading. If you have an SSD on the system JDownloader is running on, be sure to let JDownloader download onto that SSD and not on other/older connected magnetic harddrives.

Can I delete JDownloader? ›

You can find an uninstaller script within your JDownloader directory with the filename Uninstall JDownloader . In case you've installed JD manually, just delete the JDownloader installation directory. Use the package manager you've used to install JDownloader to uninstall it.

What is the best download manager? ›

List of Best Download Managers for Windows
  • Ninja Download Manager.
  • JDownloader.
  • Internet Download Accelerator.
  • EagleGet.
  • BitComet.
  • uGet.
  • FlashGet.
  • GetGo Download Manager.

Is JDownloader free? ›

JDownloader is a powerful, free, and open source download manager.

Which is better JDownloader or free download manager? ›

For All Industries, JDownloader is a better choice. If you are confused between Free Download Manager or JDownloader, you can also check if the software has customizable modules for your industry. Industry-specific functionalities will ensure higher efficiency and ROI. However, do check for the hidden price, is any.

Does JDownloader extract files? ›

JD is able to extract most of all archive types. This feature is enabled automaticly. If JD does not extract them, the archive might be incomplete, or the password is missing. Get the password, rightclick on the link in JD [Extras]->[Extract files].

Is Internet Download Manager illegal? ›

It's crucial to understand that utilizing pirated software, such as IDM, constitutes an infringement of copyright laws and is considered illegal.

How do I know if my browser extension is safe? ›

Read the description. Look for things that may be questionable, like tracking info or data sharing. Check out the reviews. Look for users complaining of oddities happening, speculating on their data being taken, or for anything that strikes you as odd.

Is it safe to download browser extensions? ›

Extensions essentially live inside your browser until you choose to uninstall them. In general, they are safe to use.

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