KGet review
A free, open-source Linux download manager with practical transfer controls.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
KGet is an open-source download manager from KDE for Linux desktop users, particularly those who want a focused way to handle FTP and HTTP(S) transfers. It displays current and pending downloads, can run in the system tray, and supports pausing, resuming, and restarting files. Its free availability and Linux desktop focus make it a practical fit for users who prefer open-source software and do not need a cross-platform download tool.
Its feature set covers several everyday transfer needs without extending beyond download management. KGet can monitor the clipboard for download URLs, group downloads, assign default folders, and retry transfers after broken connections. Metalink support adds multiple URLs and checksums, while a configurable local web interface provides another way to interact with downloads. Konqueror integration connects the manager to KDE's listed browser ecosystem, although the broader integration scope is centered on that single browser.
KGet is best suited to Linux users who value straightforward file transfers, desktop integration, and control over interrupted downloads. The product is less suitable for anyone seeking broader platform coverage or a download manager with documented scheduling, concurrent-download, or video-focused capabilities. Its Linux-only scope keeps the product focused, while the lack of paid tiers means there is no plan structure to compare. KDE distributes KGet under the GPL-2.0-or-later license, reinforcing its open-source positioning. Choose KGet for FTP and HTTP(S) downloads, Metalink handling, clipboard monitoring, and configurable organization; consider an alternative when browser breadth, other operating systems, or those additional download workflows are priorities.
KGet pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free and open source with FTP and HTTP(S) support
- Pauses, resumes, restarts, and retries broken downloads
- Metalink checksums, clipboard monitoring, and download grouping
- Where it doesn't
- Linux-only platform scope
- Konqueror is the listed browser integration
- No documented scheduling, concurrent downloads, or video support
KGet fact sheet, pricing and score →
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