Torrenting is a preferred way of downloading large files like software, movies, books, and more that are otherwise time-consuming to get from host servers. Today, many dedicated free P2P clients are available that allow fast downloading of large files from other peers within the network.
However, since torrenting is unregulated, it poses severe threats of cyberattacks to the tormentors. Luckily, some trusted and secured torrenting clients are now available that support fast downloading and prevent malware attacks.
We have gathered the 17 best torrenting clients so you can avoid the unsafe ones.
Top-notch P2P clients to use today – the quick list
Short on time? No problem. Check out this quick best torrenting clients list to begin safe torrenting now:
- BitTorrent – Powerful torrent client for desktop and mobile with features like an inbuilt search box, a download scheduler, and many more.
- uTorrent – Lightweight software, updates security features frequently, auto-download, remote control.
- Deluge – Customizable client, extendable through plugins, integrates with Chrome and Firefox, supports scheduled downloads.
- qBittorent – Free and open-source tool, built-in media player, encrypted connections, support private torrents.
- Vuze – Well-designed downloader, virus protection, compatibility with major platforms, inbuilt forums, and chat function.
Want to know about more options? Read along to find the complete list of the 17 best torrent/P2P clients you can use today.
What is a torrent client?
Downloading a file from the internet is easy; you click the download button, and the file comes onto your device automatically.
However, this differs from torrenting, which involves sharing files through a decentralized peer-to-peer (P2P) network. Basically, a torrent downloader is an application that enables you to download torrent files through the BitTorrent protocol.
Why having a safe torrent client is vital?
Torrenting is unregulated, which means you can download anything. Thus, it becomes easy for malicious actors to disguise malware in mislabeled torrent files. Downloading these files might install malware on your device. You may experience many problems, such as dramatic slowdowns, hardware failure, data theft, etc.
Using trusted and secure torrent software is the best way to avoid these threats.
Fortunately, some have paid-for subscriptions with premium features such as virus protection. Others employ mechanisms to flag off any form of ads when torrenting. Using such popular torrent clients significantly reduces the risks of malware attacks on your device.
It would be best to go for open source torrent clients as they don’t depend on advertising to make money. So they won’t barrage you with irritating or potentially dangerous ads. Also, such software is improved frequently, so you will likely experience a consistently seamless performance.
Note:
Before you download a torrent using any client, we strongly recommend connecting to a VPN. The VPNs on this list will encrypt all your internet activities by routing your traffic through private servers. No one can see what you are doing, not even your internet service provider or any other third party. According to our tests, ExpressVPN is the best service for torrenting as it offers remarkable speeds and advanced security features.
How to choose the best torrent clients
Follow these measures before selecting any client for torrenting:
- Device compatibility: The best torrent client has applications for all major operating systems. This way, you can manage torrents across multiple platforms.
- Ad intrusiveness: Some torrent clients like uTorrent have intrusive ads while others don’t. So, read the user reviews to determine their experiences and intrusiveness level.
- Security: Some torrenting networks host malicious links. Choose a torrent client with additional security features, like encryption, to keep you safe.
- Additional features: Find out what makes the torrent client stand out. The most common additional features include scheduling options, web seeding, peer exchange, and magnetic links.
- Usability and interface: Some torrent clients are complicated. Choose a user-friendly torrenting client that is easy to navigate.
- Resource usage: A good torrenting client should not consume too much computing power. Choose a lightweight client, especially if your device has limited processing power and memory.
Quick comparison of the best torrent clients
| Providers | Size | Compatibility | Customization | Plans |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BitTorrent | Very lightweight | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and web version | Excellent | Free and Pro Plans |
| uTorrent | Super lightweight | Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux | Excellent | Free and Pro Plans |
| Deluge | Very lightweight | Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, and Firefox | Excellent | Free only |
| qBittorrent | Lightweight | Windows, Linux, macOS, OS/2, and FreeBSD | Good | Free only |
| Vuze | Lightweight | Windows, macOS, and Linux | Good | Free and Pro Plans |
| BitLord | Heavy | Windows, macOS, and Android | Poor | Free only |
| Bitcomet | Lightweight | Windows | Good | Free only |
| Torch Browser | Lightweight | Windows | Good | Free only |
| WebTorrent | Very lightweight | Windows, macOS, and Linux | Poor | Free only |
| Tixati | Heavy | Windows and Linux | Good | Free only |
17 best torrent clients – The detailed list
1. BitTorrent
- Website URL: bittorrent.com
BitTorrent is a well-known and powerful torrent tool that has existed for a long time. It boasts tons of advanced features that are helpful for both beginners and advanced users. For example, it offers malware protection, playback, and much more.
Moreover, the Android app has a WiFi-only feature that lets you save data. With this feature enabled, the torrenting process continues only when connected to a hotspot, an excellent utility if you have a limited data plan.
Besides, you can easily find the torrent files you want in the search box.
2. uTorrent
- Website URL: utorrent.com
uTorrent is one of the best P2P software available. Here, searching and downloading torrent files is very easy. Also, you can find streaming magnet links and torrent files for your favorite content.
The highly configurable software allows you to tweak some features to suit your needs. For example, you can add more bandwidth to specific downloads and set upload and download speeds.
Interestingly, the entire application is smaller than a digital photo, so it doesn’t occupy much space on your device.
However, the tool has attracted criticism for allegedly letting hackers control crucial functions. However, BitTorrent has introduced a patch to address the vulnerability.
So now, the only annoying thing with this tool is the ads it shows while torrenting. (Though they aren’t intrusive or malicious.)
3. Deluge
- Website URL: deluge-torrent.org
Deluge is a well-established torrent downloader. The software is extremely lightweight and won’t clutter your hard drive space. We tested it on our laptop, and it worked flawlessly. Its recent updates let you create your own torrents.
The disadvantage is that the interface may be slightly complicated for beginners. However, it comes with a lot of customization for advanced users through various plugins. Additionally, you can integrate it with your browser and set scheduled downloads.
4. qBittorrent
- Website URL: qbittorrent.org
qBittorrent is another popular torrent downloader software. The software does the job, although the user interface isn’t highly polished or fancy. So, we recommend it if you are a beginner or your PC has low specs.
Furthermore, qBittorrent is open-source, which means it is updated and improved frequently. Also, it has an inbuilt media player and supports encrypted connections, proxies, and connects privately. The best part is that the client is compatible with major devices, and you can access and control it remotely.
Also read: qBitTorrent vs. uTorrent: Which is the better and safer today?
5. Vuze
- Website URL: vuze.com
If you are looking for a P2P client with powerful search capabilities, Vuze (formerly Azureus) is your best bet. It has impressive features like magnet link support, media and device playback, and remote control. The software wraps this practicability with a user-friendly user interface.
One of Vuze’s selling points is the chat functions and built-in forums. Plus, the subscription service has extra features such as integrated virus protection, bandwidth limiting, IP filtering, etc. Remember, the free version is ad-supported.
6. BitLord
- Website URL: bitlord.com
BitLord is a trustworthy free P2P downloader. The software is older than most clients on this list but performs excellently. In fact, the user interface is intuitive, making it effortless to navigate. You will also get a built-in player to play content before downloading.
The client works well; we didn’t experience any issues during downloads. Some helpful features of this tool include a download organizer, automatic subtitle, password protection, and torrent feedback list.
7. BitComet
- Website URL: bitcomet.com/en
BitComet is the fastest BitTorrent client. However, it is specifically designed for Windows only.
Besides the basic torrenting client features, it adds some things to the mix. For example, it has a feature dubbed long-term seeding that enables you to fetch data from peers with the whole torrent file.
Also, its intelligent disk caching stores frequently accessed data in the main memory instead of your PC’s hard drive, reducing the performance impact.
8. Torch Browser
- Website URL: torchbrowser.com
Torch Browser is a Chromium-based web browser preloaded with a safe torrent client. It has an easy-to-use interface to search and download your favorite content easily.
The torrent download software allows you to play video files while still downloading. In addition, you can set the speed limit so that the torrenting process doesn’t affect your surfing experience.
Like uTorrent, it will display the upload and download speeds and overall data usage statistics at the bottom of the dashboard.
9. Web Torrent
- Website URL: webtorrent.io
Web Torrent is the best option if you are looking for simple software for downloading torrents. You only have to paste the magnet URL or torrent file, and the downloading process will start immediately.
This open-source P2P client has a minimalist interface that makes searching and downloading torrent files easy. It also provides an inbuilt player to play music, videos, and audiobooks as they download. You can also stream videos on Chromecast, AirPlay, and DLNA hassle-free.
10. Tixati
- Website URL: tixati.com
Tixati is torrent download software with a classic user interface and impressive functionality. It is straightforward to install and comes with encrypted chat rooms, bandwidth limits, and numerous configuration settings.
The torrent downloader does not disturb you with annoying ads or any other distracting content when torrenting. It also employs sufficient measures to prevent malware.
On the downside, the software is only compatible with Windows and Linux. So, you’ll have to choose another option if you use macOS.
11. BiglyBT
- Website URL: biglybt.com
BiglyBT is a reliable torrent downloading client that is open-source and ad-free. If you have ever used Vuze, you’ll find its features familiar, such as the user interface.
One of BiglyBT’s impressive features is Swarm merging, enabling multiple torrents to download the same file to compensate for dead bits and improve the downloading speeds.
Other noteworthy features include built-in discovery tools, download limit filters, and an Android remote control. The client works with Windows, Mac, and Android and does not feature ads or offers.
12. Transmission
- Website URL: transmissionbt.com
Transmission is a torrent downloader perfect for macOS users. Configuring the software on your device is easy. The entire process took less than 3 minutes to complete during our tests.
It’s an open-source tool bearing a user-friendly interface, numerous remarkable features, and customizable settings.
For instance, you can set speed limits, stop seeding when the download has met a specific ratio and more. Use the latest version of Transmission torrent downloader for best results, as it performs faster than the previous one.
13. Bitport
- Website URL: bitport.io/welcome
Bitport.io is a cloud-based torrent downloader, so you won’t have to install it on your device to start torrenting. Instead, your downloaded files will be stored on the cloud so you can access them with any device at any time. This saves you space and is an excellent way to protect your files. The client also has SSL encryption to safeguard your connections.
14. Halite
- Website URL: sourceforge.net/projects/halite/
Halite is a free client based on the libtorrent library, the same engine that powers the well-known BitTorrent and its popular apps.
The program is an incredibly lightweight free torrent downloader that is simple to use.
Although, setting it up might be a bit confusing as you have to go through GitHub. However, once you have installed the software, it will run on your device without any issues.
Besides, the interface is user-friendly, and performing basic operations such as pausing and resuming downloads requires fewer clicks.
However, one con is that the software is not updated regularly. That can cause issues for some users. In fact, during our tests, it didn’t work as expected on Windows XP. It works on the latest Windows versions, but it is acceptable.
15. Frostwire
- Website URL: frostwire.com
FrostWire is torrent software that lets you download files from cloud sources and BitTorrent Network. It has an inbuilt media library to access and play the content while downloading. The software is compatible with all major operating systems, such as Windows, Android, Linux, and macOS.
16. ZbigZ
- Website URL: zbigz.com
ZbigZ is another cloud-based torrenting client that helps you download torrent files without installing them on your device.
This anonymous torrent cloud client does not require any registration. However, creating an account enables you to access additional features. Besides, the free version is restricted and ad-supported, which can be annoying.
17. KTorrent
- Website URL: apps.kde.org/ktorrent
KTorrent is a lightweight and straightforward P2P client that allows you to download torrent files through the BitTorrent protocol. The interface is neat, making it relatively easy to navigate the platform. Although it is not the most efficient client to download large files, you can run multiple torrents simultaneously. Additionally, there is an option to preview specific torrent files, either audio or video.
How to stay safe on torrent clients?
Below are the measures that you can use to guard yourself while downloading torrents:
- Use a firewall: This will filter intrusive IP addresses from monitoring your torrenting activities. However, you should combine it with other security measures for improved protection.
- Don’t share or download copyrighted material: Sharing and downloading copyrighted material is illegal in most countries. Avoid copyrighted material at all costs to be safe.
- Update your antivirus frequently: Obsolete software is vulnerable to online threats. Besides fixing crashes and bugs, software updates improve functionality.
- Opt for a reputable torrent site: Avoid experimental torrenting clients to avoid possible threats.
- Check ratings: Determine torrent sites’ safety by checking ratings and reading reviews.
Quick guide for downloading torrents on a PC
Downloading torrents on your PC is an effortless process. Here is a quick step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Install a VPN. First, you must install a reliable VPN (our number one recommendation here is NordVPN). Since torrenting is risky, using a VPN safeguards your data and masks traffic. (Find more about the best VPNs for torrenting below.)
- Download a torrent client. You need to download reliable torrent software to share or download files. (You can choose any from the recommendations above). While the market welcomes new players, some come with malware and can adversely affect your device, so choose wisely.
- Install a tracker. After downloading the client, download a tracker list containing the torrent file listing. Remember that these trackers are just repositories and do not host the content.
- Search the torrent file of your choice to download. For this, go to the search bar and look for the content you want. For example, the result will return in several files if it is a popular movie. Choose the one with many seeders for it to download faster.
- Start downloading, and you’ll be directed to the torrent file downloader to choose the destination on your PC to begin downloading your torrent files.
From the above steps, connecting to a VPN and downloading a tracker are optional steps. VPN is for optimum security and a tracker will let you have access to latest torrent files within the client. We highly recommend using a VPN as a must, while you can opt not to use trackers if you like. For example, you can simply turn to your favorite torrent download site and download whatever you want using the client you installed.
Is it illegal to use torrent download software?
The legality of torrent software will depend on how you use them. For instance, you can use torrent sites to download files that are not copyright-protected.
However, it is illegal to download copyrighted content, and you can get into trouble, especially in countries with strict laws.
In fact, at PrivacySavvy, we don’t condone such practices and only encourage downloading legitimate material. Content creators give their blood and sweat, so there should not be any piracy – this website is against ALL such acts!
Nonetheless, many reasons have made certain movies and TV shows available to the public. For example, lack of registration with the Library of Congress, releasing without copyright notices, and failure to renew copyright licensing. In those cases, you can freely download or share the content.
Why it is essential to have a torrenting VPN
Regardless of the best torrenting clients, the only way to torrent anonymously is with a VPN.
While downloading torrents, your IP address remains visible to other peers in the swarm, which might include some threat actors, too. So, using a VPN hides your IP address; hence, you can torrent safely.
The VPN works by creating an encrypted tunnel to reroute your traffic. As a result, no one can track or monitor your online activities. In fact, even if you accidentally download copyrighted material, nobody will know.
Besides anonymity, another benefit of using a VPN while torrenting is evading internet throttling.
Precisely, if you notice your connection speeds drop when torrenting, your internet service provider (ISP) might be throttling your bandwidth. This is a common strategy many ISPs use if they find you engaging in data-intensive activities like torrenting.
So, encrypting your traffic and masking your IP address via a VPN prevents your ISP from seeing your online activities.
Furthermore, it enables you to unblock all the torrent sites, such as ThePirateBay alternatives and KAT proxy websites.
Some VPNs have ad blockers and malware protection to shield you from intrusive ads and suspicious downloads.
Best VPNs to use with torrent clients
Some critical factors to consider when choosing a VPN for torrenting are P2P support, zero logs policy, and impressive unblocking capability. Moreover, it should have incredible speeds and back its plans with at least a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Of course, finding such a VPN that satisfies all the parameters can be tedious. So, based on extensive tests and research from our team, below you go with the top 3 torrenting VPNs to use today.
1. NordVPN
Key features
- 5400+ servers in 60 countries
- Support P2P sharing
- AES 256-bit encryption
- Unlimited bandwidth and data
- 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN is a hugely popular torrenting VPN due to its stringent security measures and easy-to-use apps. It is a security-focused service with an expansive server network.
Unlike ExpressVPN, NordVPN has optimized some of its servers for torrenting. Also, the VPN client is smart enough to redirect you to the correct servers based on your intended activity. For instance, if you forget to use the specialized P2P servers, the VPN will redirect your connections automatically.
The company recently introduced the NordLynx protocol, significantly improving the VPN’s speeds. It is based on Wireguard, a newer and more efficient VPN protocol than IKEv2 and OpenVPN. As a result, you can share and download huge torrent files without sacrificing your security.
NordVPN has a tested no-logs policy, which means it won’t retain any of your identifiable information. It goes an extra step by undergoing external audits by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) to verify the logging claims.
The provider is headquartered in a privacy-friendly country, Panama, and publishes warrant canary frequently. Although, even if subpoenaed, it can’t share any data about the user as it doesn’t have any.
It uses AES 256-bit encryption to protect internet connections. Since AES encryption is almost impossible to crack, hackers can never access your data.
Additionally, the CyberSec feature will block annoying ads and malware when torrenting.
Other vital security features of NordVPN include double VPN, kill switch, split tunneling, and DNS leak protection.
Pros
- Excellent privacy and security credentials
- Outstanding performance on all the servers
- Specialized torrenting servers
Cons
- A little clumsy mobile user interface
2. ExpressVPN
Key features
- 3000 servers in 94 countries
- Unlimited bandwidth and data
- Support P2P sharing
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Compatible with: Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, Linux, and more
- Works with: BitTorrent, Vuze, uTorrent, and all others
ExpressVPN is our top pick VPN for torrent download software. It is a great service known for its impressive security and massive server network.
One of the crucial factors to consider when choosing a torrenting VPN is speed. ExpressVPN offers fast connections as well as unlimited bandwidth and data. Therefore, you can torrent whichever content you want without buffering or reaching data limits.
ExpressVPN is slightly pricier than its rivals but provides value for the money. For example, it supports torrenting on its network of more than 3000 servers in over 94 countries. This gives you plenty of options if one of your torrenting connections is blocked. A Smart Location feature also connects you to the best server automatically.
Regarding security and privacy, ExpressVPN employs the best measures to safeguard your safety and anonymity.
First, the provider is based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy haven far from the 14-Eyes Alliance. Second, it follows a strict zero-logs policy to keep your data and torrenting activities private. Besides, the military-grade AES 256-bit encryption and perfect forward secrecy prevent anyone from intercepting your traffic.
Pros
- Lightning-fast speeds
- Advanced security and privacy measures
- Effective kill switch to prevent leaks
Cons
- Slightly pricier
3. Surfshark
Key features
- 3200+ servers in 100 countries
- AES 256-bit encryption
- Automatic kill switch
- MultiHop servers
- Camouflage mode
- 30-days money-back guarantee
Surfshark is an excellent option to anonymize your torrenting activities and data without breaking the bank. This budget-friendly torrenting VPN packs a comprehensive list of features that are rare to find on other providers.
The VPN doesn’t have specifically optimized torrenting servers. So, you must go through several trials to find suitable servers for P2P sharing. Nonetheless, it worked flawlessly during our testing when connected to random servers.
You’ll be impressed that Surfshark is registered in the British Virgin Islands, which is considered a privacy-friendly jurisdiction. In addition, the privacy policy affirms its stance against keeping personal or location-identifying logs. Cure53, a reputable cybersecurity research firm, has independently audited these claims.
Surfshark will maintain your security when torrenting with features such as AES 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, and an automatic kill switch.
If you live in a country that restricts VPN usage, the Camouflage Mode will make your connection look regular. You can also use the MultiHop servers to route your traffic through two servers instead of one.
Pros
- Affordable long-term plans
- Effective kill switch on all apps
- Great speeds
Cons
- It doesn’t offer P2P-optimized servers
FAQs
Although hackers and other malicious actors take advantage of torrent sites, they can be helpful in many ways. For example, they are a great way to share media and sync files you own rights to. Actually, social media companies such as Twitter and Facebook use the P2P protocol to upload files to their servers to save bandwidth.
In most cases, torrents are safe to download. However, malware-infected torrent files are widespread and can affect your device. In particular, you should be wary of executable (.exe) files or batch files (.bat) as they are associated with malware.
Generally, torrenting non-copyrighted content is not illegal in many countries. However, sharing or downloading copyrighted material is prohibited, and you can easily get into trouble if caught. The copyright owner can decide to charge you, and you can go to jail if found guilty.
