Torrent, named after BitTorrent, is a file sharing protocol which allows files to be fragmented and downloaded from multiple sources called peers. Although the word “torrent” has been long associated with illegal piracy and forbidden files, the torrent file itself is simply an instruction set of where to find those file fragments, so they can come together to form a whole. All the fragments are hosted by other computer users connected to the torrent network, such as yourself.
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- Best Torrent Clients For Mac
Mac OS X Nightly builds Previous Releases. Source Code Nightly tarballs Previous tarballs How to build. Windows (early preview) Nightly builds. SHA256 Hashes Code Signing Policy Windows MSI packages: free code signing provided by SignPath.io, certificate by SignPath Foundation. The Mac Client apps that are provided by some reliable developers of Torrents are listed below: uTorrent App (Mac) The uTorrent app is an incredible lightweight client managed by the BitTorrent for Mac OS X. The client was developed around the year 2005 and since then it has revolutionized the downloading process of the users. A Mac may not be prone to as many viruses, yet your IP will be seen using any of these Mac clients. Once you find the best torrent client for MAC, you need to check out the best VPN for MAC to keep you safe while using any torrent clients. It does not matter where the torrent.
Best torrent clients for Mac
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It might sound complicated, but peer-to-peer is actually a very smart and efficient way to share files that don’t rely on single servers or private storage. Mac Torrents are no different to their PC or Linux counterparts. The only thing that isn’t the same is the choice of torrent clients themselves.
What is a Mac torrent Client?
As torrents became popular, the stigma around their use was diminished. Users worldwide were surprised at how quickly they could download files without experiencing the paywall or slowdown of traditional file-sharing systems.
To start downloading files through torrent, you just need to download and install a torrent client (software). The torrent client will then follow the instructions given in the torrent file to complete your download. Think of it like a download manager, specifically built for torrent files.
Torrent Mac clients come in different shapes and sizes, but all ultimately do the same thing — download files (called leeching) or upload files (called seeding). The right torrent client for you depends on your needs. You can opt for small and simple, or look for something more complex boasting advanced features. Downloading and installing a torrent client isn’t illegal per se, but all users should be wary of some nuances.
Is a torrent downloader for Mac legal?
Although torrents have historically been seen as illegal file-sharing systems, they are not inherently illegal at all. Torrent clients have many legitimate uses, including the sharing of open-source software or publically available files. The advantage of using a torrent client in these situations is potentially faster download speeds, especially if you use the best torrent downloader available.
Assuming the files you’re downloading aren’t subject to copyright or distribution laws, there should be no cause for concern. Conversely, if you’re using the torrent client to download files that you’d normally have to pay for, you may be breaching legislation, depending on the jurisdiction you reside in.
What to look for in a torrent Mac client
When it comes to reviewing a torrent downloader for Mac, there are a few considerations to take into account. At a high level, a basic user who runs the torrent client to download files infrequently will be happy with the most basic, lightweight app, and they don’t necessarily need the best torrent software. Those who wish to contribute and share their own files, or spend a lot of time downloading and uploading, might want to enjoy some of the advanced features available. For example:
- Bandwidth limiters allow you to throttle your download or upload speed to ensure your internet connection remains available for other tasks, or to ensure you don’t use all of your internet data.
- Magnet URI functionality lets you begin your Mac torrent download from a link rather than physically downloading a torrent file first.
- Encryption helps to mask the torrent activity to throw off your ISP monitoring and enjoy full-speed downloads in the case of ISP throttling.
- Superseeding enables you to become an uploader much faster after a download, but carries a risk of failing the upload if there’s only one downloader on the other end.
- Pricing can either turn on some advanced features, extra security, and ensure no advertising, or offer you a basic torrent client for free.
As you can see, most of the features separating various torrent clients are generally of a more pro-level nature. For the majority of basic users, they are less important than the look and feel of the torrent app. So what’s the best torrent client for Mac? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of the most popular Mac torrent clients so you know where to pull the trigger.
BitTorrent and uTorrent
BitTorrent for Mac is one of the original torrent clients designed to implement the BitTorrent protocol. It comes with the advantage of many years of experience and updates under the hood.
Strangely, BitTorrent also owns and operates uTorrent, another leading client. At face value, they are essentially the exact same software, right down to the user interface.
The key difference between the two apps is that BitTorrent for Mac only releases stable, tested versions, whereas uTorrent releases alpha and beta versions for those who wish to test out the latest features before everyone else. The early releases can beg the question: Is uTorrent safe? When it comes to subscribing to alpha and beta builds, it’s a matter of buyer beware — best for advanced users.
Another key difference is that uTorrent is slightly smaller than BitTorrent, and therefore easier to launch and less taxing when running a Mac torrent download.
Generally speaking, uTorrent still might be the better option for basic users who download torrents infrequently, simply because of its simplicity and lightweight build. Just hope those betas are stable enough!
Pros:
- Small and lightweight
- Ability to schedule downloads
- Long history of reliable updates
Cons:
- Contains ads (!)
- Both clients are susceptible to some security issues
Vuze and Vuze Plus torrent for Mac
If BitTorrent and uTorrent are the small, lightweight clients that get the job done — Vuze is created for the more advanced user who wishes to enjoy extended functionality.
The key difference here is the ability to add plugins for new features. Vuze comes in two versions. The first is Vuze Leap and the second Vuze Plus, which is essentially the same except for professional virus protection and the ability to preview files as they are downloading. Vuze Plus is also a paid client with all ads removed.
Vuze in general is likely a more suitable candidate for tech-savvy users who wish to take full advantage of the expandable plugin functionality. When set up correctly, it can be a top candidate for the best torrent downloader for Mac.
Pros:
- Expandable functionality through plugins
- Simple interface that borrows from the best
- Vuze Plus features added security
Cons
- Contains banner ads unless in paid version
- Two versions can lead to confusion
Folx Pro – the best torrent client for Mac?
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Folx Pro is a paid torrent client, which means there are no ads and it comes with some great security measures right out of the box. Folx covers all of the basic features you would want in a torrent client, including scheduling. You can even search for new torrent files to download from within the client, instead of having to browse the web.
Additionally, Mac users will appreciate the look, which takes after macOS and feels right at home. The interface is beautifully simple — refreshing after the added visual noise of competing Mac torrent clients.
Downloading with Folx Pro is thus even simpler than with other apps:
- Use the top search bar to type in your keyword and hit Return
- Wait for all results to show up
- Choose the appropriate file and click Download on the right-hand side
Pros:
- No ads whatsoever
- Built-in security measures
- macOS-inspired design
Cons
- Paid version only
Maintain your security at all times
One of the most important considerations to keep in mind when downloading torrent files is the risk of viruses or malware. Because there’s no single owner or distributor of the file at hand, it’s very easy to upload malicious files and escape the liability or consequences of doing so. Often, hackers will hide malicious software or scripts in popular torrent files. In these cases, it’s best to try to download torrent files that are distributed from a trustworthy source. Additionally, the best torrent software should come bundled with some security measures.
In any case, it’s a good idea to always scan your Mac for viruses. Thankfully, there’s an easy to use app called CleanMyMac X which will not only scan your system and quarantine malicious files but also optimize your Mac and help you properly configure your privacy settin
To quickly check your computer after every torrent download with CleanMyMac X:
- Open the app and navigate to Malware Removal tab under Protection in the sidebar
- Click Scan and wait for the process to finish
- Remove any malware found
Now that you know what Mac torrent clients are and some of the features to look for, you’re ready to get started with your unlimited file sharing. It’s recommended that you lean on the side of caution though, so a paid torrent client is your best bet.
Thankfully, you can try both Folx Pro torrent app and CleanMyMac X virus scanner for free during a seven-day trial with Setapp — a subscription service for Mac that grants you access to more than 150 indispensable apps to enrich your digital life. What are you planning to download now?
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Many people only think of torrenting on Windows devices, although there are many who use Macs.
With torrent clients, you can download torrent files, or you can use torrent magnet links. Each of them can be used to download and share files via the internet, and each of the Mac BitTorrent clients offers something different. A good BitTorrent application needs to be easy to use, reliable, and fast, and download files from fellow computer users.
The downloading of torrent files is easy, provided you have the best torrent client that fits your needs. Some of you may consider this a very simple program, which automates the process of steering P2P traffic. However, more advanced users would like to customize everything.
Here you can learn more about torrents, which the best BitTorrent for Mac is, and how you can use them safely.
What Are Torrents?
Torrents are small files, which you can download, and from these, they give a torrent client the instructions of how to go about downloading the full file. A key example is a movie.
The BitTorrent protocol enables users to share large files using a peer-to-peer network. In use, portions of the files can derive from thousands of users rather than one person. As you download this file portions, the client also uploads them from your PC or Mac in what they call ‘seeding.’ (Read our Torrent Downloads Guide)
To download a torrent, you must have a torrent client. It is this, which connects to the network, and from there, the most of the intervention you need to do is find the right torrent sites that have the torrent links for files you want to download.
Magnet links were an improvement over the small torrent files because you don’t have to download these files to your desktop. The client checks all the information and will then go about automatically downloading the file you choose.
Is Torrenting Legal?
Torrents and BitTorrent technology are 100% legal, although many use this delivery method to download files that have links hosted on such sites as The Pirate Bay and Kickass Torrents
Many shared files like the latest movies or TV shows are often subject to copyright laws. It is here that downloading them is subject to copyright law infringement.
Movie studios and music companies often monitor torrent activity. In severe cases, they can bring court cases against torrent sites to have them shut down, or even individuals they suspect of infringing copyright.
What is the best BitTorrent client for Mac?
Here we have some of the best torrent clients for Mac you can use to download torrent files quickly.
1. Folx
Pros
- Built-in search – Pro version only
- Ad-free client for Mac
- Highly customizable
- Deals with high numbers of torrents
Cons
- Not as lightweight as some other apps
- Many features only in PRO version
Folx ranks high on our list of torrent applications for Mac because it is currently; one of the only torrent clients that are completely compatible with macOS Catalina.
Folx makes downloading torrent files very convenient: it allows you to set the priority, control the download and upload speed, and tag your downloads for quick content searches.
Folx allows you to download torrents from both trackers and magnetic links.
You can sign up for the Pro version of this torrent downloader for Mac.
It will enable you to search for torrent content directly from the application. This makes it easier than browsing torrent trackers to find the file you want.
All you have to do is enter your search term into Folx’s search bar, and it will search the massive list of torrent trackers to present you with the results.
2. qBittorrent
Pros
- Search many torrents at the same time
- Familiar uTorrent appearance
- Ad-free Mac BitTorrent client
- Small install footprint
Cons
- Torrents can freeze
- Can consume large amounts of RAM
Due to the non-advertising nature of qBittorrent, this makes it arguably one of the best torrent clients for Mac. Additionally, the familiar interface of qBittorrent to uTorrent makes it one of the best torrent clients for Mac to get to know and use.
The client application is designed to give you the flexibility of downloading files with no unnecessary hassle. It is simple to use, it is free and open-source, and nevertheless, it is loaded with features.
It supports private torrents and magnetic links, includes its built-in search and provides download prioritization. It is no surprise most users consider it one of the best torrent applications for Mac.
qBittorrent is compatible with macOS Sierra, High Sierra, Mojave and Catalina.
3. Transmission
Pros
- Minimalistic interface
- Free and no ads
- Lightweight RAM use
Cons
- No built-in torrent search
- Lacks tracker exchange
- No customer support
Transmission is a further free and open-source torrent client. It’s very RAM, lightweight and fast. It also requires fewer system resources, has support for magnetic links and may even find local systems, which are connected to your system.
Transmission is worthy of its title as one of the best torrent client applications. It’s easy to use, as proven with the fact Ubuntu has elected it to be their standard bit torrent client.
With the Transmission app, you will have standard functions, such as web interface, exchange peers, encryption, DHT with tracker editing and lots more.
For the moment, Transmission is functioning well on Catalina, although there have been user reports of it being buggy at times. If you already upgraded to Catalina, share your experience using the Transmission app.
4. Vuze
Pros
- Built-in torrent search
- Works with large numbers of torrents
- Built-in media player
- Fast and easy to use
Cons
- Adware during installation
- Too many ads in free version
- Built-in torrent search is not the best
Vuze is one of the best download Bittorrent for MAC you can make and has been for a few years. It comes with plenty of useful features. Torrent search is available directly from inside the app, and you can use the Web Remote function to manage your torrent downloads from remote locations.
Vuze can play the video directly with the media player, and the possibility of playback from a device connected to your Mac.
If you sign up for Vuze Plus, you can automatically locate torrents, which are similar to ones already subscribed. You can also get rid of the annoying ads that pop up as you use the app.
Using Vuze Plus as an HD video player lets Vuze offer smooth playback with a handful of formats like QuickTime, AVI, XVID, as well as adding various language subtitles.
Vuze hasn’t officially been given the green light for full Catalina compatibility, although many users state the apps work okay on macOS 10.15.
An honourable mention is Deluge, which was a close tie for the number four spot. It is open-source, yet can be complicated and heavy on resources.
FAQ
Is uTorrent safe for Mac?
At one stage, uTorrent began bundling extensions for features that were unwelcome by most users who just want to download torrents and magnet links. However, these were annoying more than harmful to the torrent client.
Like any of the other best MAC torrenting client here, uTorrent is safe to use so long as you uncheck boxes during installation for add-ons you don’t want.
Does uTorrent work on Mac?
While uTorrent could have a place on the list here as one of the best torrenting client, MAC updates have stopped it working.
The desktop version doesn’t support macOS Catalina, and users will need to swap to the uTorrent web version or use one of the clients from the list above.
Best Torrent Clients For Mac
The web version may be the way forward and has many features. It may be the best BitTorrent client out of them all. It is easy to use, very light on your system and allows you to stream video.
Torrent Client For Mac Catalina
With the new BitTorrent client, you can watch a movie before you finish downloading, other features comprise changing formats to play files on mobiles, and as it is web-based, and you have the best search features possible.
While uTorrent may be the best, and the PRO version is very affordable, you still need to make sure your identity is hidden. A Mac may not be prone to as many viruses, yet your IP will be seen using any of these Mac clients.
Once you find the best torrent client for MAC, you need to check out the best VPN for MAC to keep you safe while using any torrent clients.
Best Torrent Clients For Mac
It does not matter where the torrent storm comes from; your IP will be exposed. With the movie and recording studios watching, it does not take long for them to find out the whereabouts of every person downloading torrents.