Downloader.Desktop
Downloader.Desktop: Free, open-source desktop downloading with queues, scheduling, and local control. Ranked #17 of 58 in Download Manager Software by our editors (7.6/10); pricing: Free plan; best for desktop users wanting queues, scheduling, and a local API.
At a glance
- Editor score7.6 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forDesktop users wanting queues, scheduling, and a local API
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Video downloadingYes
- Facts checked23 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Multipart downloads with pause, resume, speed limits, and progress details
- Configurable queues and a scheduler for timed downloading
- Local API, CLI, and browser extensions for link handoff
Where it doesn't
- HLS video downloading requires an optional plugin
- Support is limited to community channels and documentation
- Desktop-focused deployment does not provide a hosted web workspace
Our verdict on Downloader.Desktop
Downloader.Desktop is a free, open-source download manager for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It is aimed at solo users and small teams that want local control over file transfers rather than a hosted workspace. Links can be pasted individually or in batches, then organized into queues with configurable concurrency. The desktop application can pause, resume, or stop transfers, while a documented Windows portable option supports use without a conventional installation.
Its strongest differentiator is control over how downloads run. Multipart transfers use multiple connections, and per-connection progress details make activity visible while speed limits help manage bandwidth. Queues can be scheduled to start and stop at set times, which suits recurring or off-hours jobs. The local API and command-line interface extend those controls beyond the desktop window. A browser extension for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox sends links directly to the application, and listed integrations include GitHub Releases and Ollama. An optional plugin adds HLS video-stream downloading and website-saving tasks for offline use.
The product keeps its scope focused on local desktop and browser workflows. Support is provided through community channels and documentation, so organizations seeking a formal support program or hosted administration should evaluate alternatives. The HLS capability also depends on installing an optional plugin rather than being part of the core application. Choose Downloader.Desktop if configurable queues, scheduling, multipart transfers, and local API or CLI access matter more than a managed online service. Users who need a browser-only experience, broader built-in media tooling, or enterprise-oriented support may prefer a different download manager.
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Downloader.Desktop pricing
Downloader.Desktop fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Browser integration | Yes |
| Video downloading | Yes |
| Download scheduling | Yes |
| Concurrent downloads | Not verified |
| Remote control | Yes |
| Portable version | Yes |
| Deployment | Desktop, Browser extension |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome extension |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 5 integrations: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Ollama, GitHub Releases |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 23 Sep 2026 |
Downloader.Desktop integrations
Downloader.Desktop lists 5 integrations on its own site.
- Chrome
- Edge
- Firefox
- Ollama
- GitHub Releases
Alternatives to Downloader.Desktop
- Free Download ManagerA broad free manager with acceleration, torrents, scheduling, and multi-platform support.9.3
- JDownloaderA broad free download manager for queues, plugins, archives, streams, and remote control.9.2
- Internet Download ManagerA capable paid Windows manager for organized, resumable and scheduled downloads.9.1
See all Downloader.Desktop alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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