10 best File Transfer Protocol (FTP) clients

Everyone who runs a website ends up needing one: a good FTP client. It is the app that moves files between your computer and your server – and the difference between a clunky one and a great one is the difference between dreading uploads and not thinking about them at all. We have used most of them over the years, so here are the ten we would actually recommend.

One rule before we start: always pick SFTP (the secure version) when you can. Every client below supports it, and every one works with your JetHost hosting.

1. FileZilla – the one most people should start with

If you are not sure what to use, use this. FileZilla is free, runs on Windows, Mac and Linux, and handles big transfers without complaining. It is not the prettiest app on this list, but it just works – which is exactly what you want at 11pm before a deadline.

2. WinSCP – the Windows power tool

Windows users who like to tinker will feel at home in WinSCP. The two-panel layout is fast, and the scripting and SSH integration make it a favourite for anyone who automates their workflow. Free, too.

3. Cyberduck – best if you live in the cloud

Cyberduck is friendly, good-looking, and connects to Amazon S3, Google Drive and OneDrive as easily as it connects to your server. If your files are scattered across hosting and cloud, this one keeps them in one window.

4. Transmit – the Mac favourite

Mac users, this is the one to spend money on. Transmit is fast, gorgeous, and a genuine pleasure to use. It is paid, but ask any Mac developer and most will tell you it is worth it.

5. Core FTP LE – light and free

Running an older Windows PC? Core FTP LE is small, free, and covers SFTP and FTPS without eating your resources.

6. WS_FTP – the business classic

Been around forever, and still going. WS_FTP leans towards businesses, with encryption, integrity checks and compliance features baked in.

7. SmartFTP – for power users

If you want scheduling, a built-in terminal and every protocol under the sun, SmartFTP delivers – though it is more than most people need.

8. FlashFXP – fast and reliable

FlashFXP is a snappy Windows client with a loyal following, especially for server-to-server transfers and solid scheduling.

9. Commander One – two tools in one

Commander One is a dual-pane Mac file manager with FTP/SFTP built in – handy if you would rather manage local and remote files in the same app.

10. Mountain Duck – your server as a drive

The clever one. Mountain Duck mounts your server like an external drive, so you edit remote files as if they were sitting on your desktop. From the Cyberduck team.

So which one?

Honestly, most people can stop at number one. Grab FileZilla (or WinSCP on Windows), point it at your JetHost account, and you are done. If you are on a Mac and want something lovely, treat yourself to Transmit. And if you connect to your site a lot, Mountain Duck will change how you work.

Whatever you choose, the setup details are the same – here is how to connect to JetHost via FTP. Now go upload something.