Best Free Alternatives to Internet Download Manager
4 programs compared
Internet Download Manager (IDM) is fast and reliable, but it is paid after a 30-day trial and only runs on Windows. These free download managers offer the same core features – faster downloads, resuming after a lost connection and browser integration – and most of them also run on macOS and Linux.
Quick answer
- Free Download Manager – the most complete free alternative, also for macOS, Linux and Android.
- AB Download Manager – free, open source and modern.
- Xtreme Download Manager – looks and works much like IDM.
Comparison at a glance
| Software | Price | Runs on | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Download Manager | Free | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android | The most complete free alternative |
| AB Download Manager | Free · open source | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android | A modern, open-source choice |
| Xtreme Download Manager | Free · open source | Windows, Linux | The closest look and feel to IDM |
| JDownloader | Free | Windows, macOS, Linux | Many files and file-hosting sites |
Free Download Manager
The closest free match to IDM’s features: split-and-resume downloads and browser integration, plus torrents and video preview – on every major platform.
Good
- Same core features as IDM
- Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux and Android
- Also downloads torrents
Keep in mind
- Not open source
AB Download Manager
A newer open-source download manager with a clean interface, queues, a scheduler and a browser extension.
Good
- Free and open source
- Modern, uncluttered interface
- Queues and schedules
Keep in mind
- Newer project with a smaller community
Xtreme Download Manager
If you are used to IDM, XDM will feel familiar: segmented downloads, resume support and browser integration in a similar layout.
Good
- Looks and works much like IDM
- Free and open source
- Light on system resources
Keep in mind
- No Android version
JDownloader
Built for downloading lots of files at once: it grabs every link on a page, downloads them in parallel and unpacks archives automatically.
Good
- Excellent for batch downloads
- Unpacks archives automatically
Keep in mind
- The Windows installer may offer extra software – decline the offers
- The interface can feel dated