Top 10 uTorrent Alternatives

[DKT27]

For tens of millions of BitTorrent users, uTorrent is the immediate client of choice. However, a recent decision by its creators to include adware in the client prompted some users to question their loyalty to the product. After numerous reader requests for an overview of other BitTorrent clients, here is a rundown of ten possible alternatives.

Following the announcement last week that uTorrent will become ad-supported (and despite the subsequent change of heart on forced ads), some BitTorrent users have been reconsidering their options.

In response to reader requests for information on other clients, here are ten alternatives (in alphabetical order).

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BitComet v1.33

We begin with perhaps the most controversial of all torrent clients. BitComet has been accused of many negative things in the past, but most were without merit.

However, the one universally annoying aspect of BitComet – padding files – is still there, and is the default setting when creating torrents.

For torrent downloads it is an acceptable client but by no means the best. On one of our test torrents BitComet could not find or connect to any peers, so your mileage may vary in everyday usage.

On the plus side, the optional eMule integration could help resuscitate some torrents, assuming you can find a working eMule server that is. On the downside it was one of the heaviest clients on our test system.

BitComet also serves advertising. Some features (such as VIP mode and anonymous downloading) are pay services, which is not always made clear.

BitComet website

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BitLord v2.1.1

Another client that has been around for many years. Older BitLord clients were based on an old version (v0.54) of BitComet but for quite a while now it has been based on Deluge. Installation includes a Conduit toolbar, and the client opens to a browser window containing more adverts (through the integrated Chrome12 browser).

As a modified Deluge, it offers very little in the way of worthwhile additions to the basic Deluge client. In addition to all the adverts it also managed to ignore the global settings and left a Conduit installer behind when removed. A clear case of where the modifications are all for the worse.

BitLord website

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BitTornado v0.3.7

A classic client, and the only one that doesn’t handle multiple torrents in a single window.

Despite the age of the client (this version was released in October 2006, and predates TorrentFreak!) it still has a popular following with a certain type of user.

Similar to the original BitTorrent client, BitTornado is an instance-per-torrent client that was responsible for many popular developments, such as the ‘traffic light’ system for port forwarding and super-seeding to maximize the efficiency of initial seeding. However, it has no DHT facility, so magnet links are not usable.

BitTornado is best for power users who release torrents periodically and can make good use of the super-seed function. Various independent front-ends are available for the BitTornado engine (such as ABC and TorrentFlux), but use them at your own risk.

BitTornado website

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Deluge v1.3.5

If you’re looking for a simple client with no bells, whistles or extras, then Deluge might be the tool for you.

It covers all the basics and has a clean interface, the simplicity of which is only underscored after seeing how BitLord butchered it. It’s also been remarkably resistant to traffic-shaping in the past; never a bad thing, especially if you’re on a frequently throttled ISP.

If there’s a downside it’s that the settings are perhaps TOO simple, and that the default settings are a little on the high side. There is also currently no support for µTP as the client uses an older version of libtorrent-rasterbar. However, its simple competence coupled with overall lightness on the system means that this is a recommended client for the regular user.

Deluge website

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FrostWire v5.3.8

A client aimed at media-oriented users, FrostWire is laid out in a manner more reminiscent of a music player than a BitTorrent client, betraying its LimeWire origins (it’s been BitTorrent-only since June 2011). While there are no toolbars included, RealPlayer is offered during install.

Music is definitely the focus of the client, with featured artists downloads being offered since 2008 along with iTunes integration. Additionally, in tests it was the only client to detect a local peer on the same network, and use it.

On the downside, initial settings are a little high, and the layout is a little cluttered. It also didn’t uninstall cleanly, leaving a number of files behind.

If your torrenting revolves around music and iTunes integration is a bonus, then FrostWire is a good option. Likewise if you torrent on a large local network, the local peer discovery may improve things for you.

FrostWire website

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MediaGet v2.01.1595

This client is very popular with Russian users, but has a few issues. The client’s options are limited and documentation – including the FAQ linked in the client – is in Russian.

Also, while the initial installer is uTorrent-sized, it’s a frontend for a web-based installer that can take a while to complete. The overall design of the client is, like FrostWire, aimed towards music users, with an integrated media player.

Despite our optimism last year, it’s currently not one of the best replacements for uTorrent.

MediaGet website

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qBittorrent v3.0.0

The Windows version of this popular Ubuntu client is, like Deluge, based on the libtorrent-rasterbar engine. However, unlike Deluge, it uses v0.16 which has support for µTP.

Installation is simple and quick, with no adverts or premium options. System resource usage was the lowest of all clients tested, and handled all standard torrent tasks with quiet competence.

On the downside, initial settings are again rather poor and will need to be corrected on installation.

Like Deluge, this is a worthy alternative client to uTorrent.

qBittorrent website

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Tixati v1.91

A client that has garnered a small, but vocal following in our comments section, it’s a client clearly aimed more towards the BitTorrent stats junkie than the casual user.

The layout is clear and uncluttered, with bold primary colors evoking memories of WinMX but getting the job done. It was easy to set up and run and is more customizable than most.

On the downside the homepage has some misleading adverts and you have to agree to the license twice, once when installing and again when first run, which can be annoying.

If you know what you’re looking for the additional information the client provides can be a benefit, but serious stats junkies will probably go for the plugin-flexibility of Vuze. In many ways it’s a midpoint between the heavy details of Vuze and the simplicity of Deluge and qBittorrent. Worth a try, but may not be for everyone.

Tixati website

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Tribler v5.9.27

The Tribler client has been around for many years now, and we’ve covered it several times. Developed at the Delft University of Technology, it’s been promoted as the only true decentralized BitTorrent client, allowing content searches independent of websites.

The downside is that the installer is massive in comparison to the other clients listed here, and it also ends up being the most system-intensive, with some functions taking several seconds to respond.

It is one of the least configurable of the clients tested and the ‘channels’ are not as well implemented as they could be.

While it has its niche, Tribler doesn’t quite make it as a mainstream replacement for uTorrent. It’s still actively being developed and brough many innovations to BitTorrent over the years, so keep an eye on this client.

Tribler website

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Vuze v4.7.1.2

Vuze is uTorrent’s main challenger. While uTorrent prides itself on its small size and speed, Java-based Vuze focuses on capability and the sheer breadth of supported devices.

It was the first client to feature DHT, albeit on its own network (a plugin is available to use the mainline DHT network) and with the enhancements offered by the plugin system it gives power users the ability to do things not possible with any of the other clients listed here.

On the downside, the client is Java-based and so is one of the heaviest consumers of system resources, and the layout is not intuitive to those coming from other clients. Additionally, the installer contains not one, but three pieces of software – a toolbar, WinZip registry optimizer, and WinZip driver updater.

However, for power users who can spare the system power, or who really want the intricate details or the flexibility of the plugin system, it’s hard to beat.

Vuze website

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Conclusion

If you are looking for a straight alternative to the uTorrent client, there are a few alternatives. For the simple/everyday user the two libtorrent clients (Deluge and qBittorrent) are good options. If you are a torrent releaser, working on one or two torrents at a time, then BitTornado may be for you. For those that want more details, Tixati would be a good alternative, and for the ultimate power user, there’s always Vuze.

The Tribler client offers promise for the future and is certainly one to keep an eye on.

Did we miss a good client? Do you disagree with the above? Feel free to add a comment!

View: Original Article

[DKT27]

A week ago, I had sent them a email:

Hello torrentfreak.

I believe I've contacted you before for a subject.

Anyway. As you know, uTorrent is going adware (yup, adware) in coming times have made lot of torrenters crazy.

So, may I suggest you guys to make an article called "uTorrent alternatives". I feel lot of people will like it.

The reason I say, from a long time I wanted to tell you guys something this, but never got time. I still haven't, but I guess if I don't write it right now, it might be too late. :P

The problem is, when you talk about uTorrent alternatives, you think about Vuze or Bitcomet. Infact, I believe that you guys have done something like this before. But times are changing.

That brings to my subject. Recently, about 6 months ago, a good torrent client caught my eye. I believe it's old but always overlooked. The client is, qBittorrent. I've been using it since then and I'm very satisfied by it. qBittorrent is like a immature, but more intelligent and no-nonsense son of uTorrent. Based on libtorrent if I'm not wrong, it's fully opensource. qBittorrent aims to look and feel like uTorrent but the features are aimed at Vuze. Sad part is, inspite of having a big community and most users being windows, it is lacking sufficient devs on windows side. Things are better now that one of the dev has returned. But take nothing away, it's a great client. It's also good that it's free and opensource as people are getting tried with uTorrent going total commercial (in principal).

But why me talking about making a uTorrent alternatives article? Because, not only client like qBittorrent is good, there are other good clients like Deluge, which lot of my friends recommend (based on libtorrent too I believe) and Tixati, which people have started recommending me recently, looks promising. And of course, BitSpirit, FrostWire, Halite, etc. exist too. Not saying people should go hipster with less common clients, but just recommending. Clients based on libtorrent seems very much in time with latest features.

I really wish to see you guys considering my recommendation for article. You guys cover filesharing news greatly. Thank you.

DKT27.

Staff at nsanedown.com and nsaneforums.com.

Hi,

Thanks for the suggestion. We'll see what we can do :)

Might take a bit of time since we want to do it right of course!

Cheers, Ernesto

So, yea, good to see them writing one. :)

[psyko666]

Nice work dude... hope they will publish your uTorrent Alternatives list! :)

But I'll stick with uTorrent 2.2.1 anyway... like it too much.. :P

[Tweety.Abd]

Nice work dude... hope they will publish your uTorrent Alternatives list! :)

But I'll stick with uTorrent 2.2.1 anyway... like it too much.. :P

Could you share the setup file, please?

[SnakeMasteR]

You can download all possible versions of µtorrent (i think) here. ;)

[psyko666]

Nice work dude... hope they will publish your uTorrent Alternatives list! :)

But I'll stick with uTorrent 2.2.1 anyway... like it too much.. :P

Could you share the setup file, please?

http://www.datafilehost.com/download-927636ba.html

[nanana1]

Thanks, DKT27, for suggesting this ! :showoff:

I am with you on qBittorrent. :wub:

[RdH]

Nice work dude... hope they will publish your uTorrent Alternatives list! :)

But I'll stick with uTorrent 2.2.1 anyway... like it too much.. :P

I just want to know, why you stick with uTorrent 2.2.1?

;)

[tipo]

You can download all possible versions of µtorrent (i think) here. ;)

there`s also filehorse.com, filehippo.com, oldversion.com...hope this helps! :cheers:

[Olexijl]

Could you share the setup file, please?

Setup file here: http://www.oldversion.com/download-uTorrent-2.2.1.25110.html

@psyko666: same build using like you... :)

PS: build 25113 has already crappy setup. So 25110 is the best build for you guys.

[Olexijl]

I just want to know, why you stick with uTorrent 2.2.1?

;)

My own reasons:

1. Very small.

2. No adware.

3. No third party components in setup file included.

4. Only torrent download necessary parts in the GUI.

5. Translation automatic download on first install.

6. Automatic bandwith configuration after testing bandwith.

Version: 2.2.1.25110

[psyko666]

DKT27..

Top 10 uTorrent Alternatives

They published it !! :thumbsup:

[grouchysmurf]

Well, I am screwed then. v3.1.3 #27385

However, I have not seen any ads...maybe I got lucky.

Anyway, I am keeping what I have. It works for me.

[ande]

I'm using uTorrent Plus 3.2 27708 build.

Simple GUI,

easy readable,

no need for additional setup or additional guide,

tiny memory usage,

don't need Java,

can be installed on all Windows,

can be installed on Mac,

can be installed on Linux ( utorrent server ),

BitDefender AntiVirus engine ( second opinion for downloaded torrents that can be easily disabled ).

Since I am using Plus version I should not have any problems with ads, I guess (if new version accepts upgrade).

From here listed 10 apps I used Deluge (on linux ) and Vuze (on Windows).

I didn't like Vuze because it is written in Java.

Other 8 apps I have never used, but from what I can see their GUI lacks minimalism.

I believe there will be some tweak to disable all ads.

As for staying with old version I would not recommend it,

better use other software then old version of uTorrent,

because they could be exploited, and with no updates

you can easily became a target.

uTorrent 3.3 Alpha changes :

Release highlights:

• Disk I/O system completely rewritten. Now multi-threaded and high performance. It will take advantage of multiple disks, perform better with even just one, and no one disk job can block everything (e.g slow network blocking local I/O, or allocating files)

• Auto-labeling and per-label download directories (Preferences -> Label)

• Search items in Advanced preferences

• Paired device removal

Changelog:

-- 2012-08-13: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27745)

- Fix: /proxy request parser crash

- Fix: mp4/mov parser crash

- Fix: GUI refresh crash

-- 2012-08-01: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27681)

- Feature: never try a tracker again if it returns status code 410

- Fix: improve BitTorrent streaming feature

- Fix: crash fixes

- Feature: dns tracker preferences

- Fix: untriggered jobs

- Fix: resume.dat performance

-- 2012-07-20: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27612)

- Feature: introduce disk job timing graph

- Fix: last shutdown hang

-- 2012-07-18: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27609)

- Fix: shutdown hang

- Fix: potential crash when loading resume.dat referring to missing torrents

- Fix: crash when shutting down with active torrents

- Fix: crash when allocating pieces in compact allocation

-- 2012-07-02: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27559)

- Feature: introduce a few more torrent states when downloading magnet links

- Fix: crash on torrent creation

- Fix: fixed crash when deleting torrents

- Fix: crash on torrent creation

-- 2012-06-29: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27541)

- Fix: top crashes

- Fix: don't write the block list in a part file in 4-byte increments

-- 2012-06-28: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27533)

- Fix: crashes in download list, mostly when deleting torrents

- Fix: proxy socket rate control bugs including overflow problem

- Fix: serving loose files from transcoder now allows seek in chrom

- Fix: fixed .mov and .mp4 video header parser for resolution

- Feature: support BitTorrent/uTorrent Remote registration via HTTP interface

- Fix: make torrent adding by URL work in more cases

-- 2012-06-19: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27454)

- Fix: crash when parsing metadata for mkv file

- Fix: recognize that a missing file invalidates known hash data when rechecking

- Fix: potential crash when deleting torrents

- Fix: possible crash when starting up magnet links and downloading metadata from multiple peers

- Fix: GUI glitches where deleting torrents sometimes would leave some fields behind

-- 2012-06-13: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27408)

- Fix: hash failures introduced in the new diskio code

- Fix: uTP stability issues. including a timer overflow for computers with uptime longer than 24.8 days

- Fix: crash in metadata parser

- Feature: loading a torrent that matches an unloaded magnet link populates the magnet

-- 2012-06-04: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27329)

- Change: remove unbuffered I/O for performance

- Change: remove random i/o flag to prevent Windows from caching it forever

- Fix: startup crash when settings.dat was corrupt

- Fix: fix disk cache graphs

-- 2012-05-23: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27280)

- Fix: video slider steps should be small for fine control and visual smoothness

- Fix: fixed lack of window frame for popped-out video; returning to embedded video works fine too;

- Fix: heap corruption

- Fix: partfile use

- Feature: sanity check on how many uTP connections we allow

- Feature: minimal support for pad-files (deselect them by default)

- Feature: retry http connection when host resolves into multiple ips and the first fails

-- 2012-05-18: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27251)

- Fix: Improperly formatted torrent vote messages

- Fix: Only request IPV4 addresses for udp tracker DNS resolution

- Fix: Bad outgoing request_peer DHT message when filename length over 100

- Fix: fixed savedir issue for magnet links that was resolved in the add torrent dialog

- Fix: possible deadlock when reporting a hang

- Fix: force-started magnet links would be stopped after metadata was received

- Fix: Fixed not sending MTU probes.

- Change: uTP timers are now classes that can be swapped out for testing and produce consistent unit test results.

- Fix: Magnet link metadata is truncated to size early.

-- 2012-05-08: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27184)

- Fix: issue where uTorrent would not make outgoing connections under certain circumstances

- Fix: magnet links would not have a correct added-on date

- Change: uTP now uses a retransmit counter rather than a timer for killing connections with packet loss.

-- 2012-05-07: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27179)

- Change: re-enable uTP by default

- Feature: bring back autoshutdown functionality

- Fix: fixed crash in AddPre window when cancelling

- Fix: fixed top crash (caused by receiving invalid DHT messages)

-- 2012-05-02: Version 3.3 alpha (build 27150)

- Change: rewritten, multithreaded disk i/o

- Change: remove unsafe string format handling code to improve stability

- Fix: lots of memory leaks

- Change: remove DNA

- Fix: Remaining instances of access to an already closed handle as well as apparent hash fails.

- Fix: Account for cache space before and after writes.

- Change: Files in a torrent now become read-only while seeding.

- Fix: limit the scope of files btapp can access to those a user has selected.

- Change: Added advanced feature: diskio.quick_hash

- Change: clean up semantics around download location. The download location is now the root folder, independent on multifile torrent or not

- Fix: Don't load torrent twice, this was causing sizes to appear as double sometimes.

- Change: Increase supported torrent (total files) size from 1TB to 17TB.

- Fix: Don't set all files to skip when loading torrents

- Fix: shutdown hang

- Fix: fixed very long btapp descriptions from overflowing permissions dialog

- Fix: Make moving a file count as activity when deciding whether to shut down

- Fix: Fix some crashes resulting from media state callback being run without the network lock

- Change: Only show error dialog Show "Failed to add file to iTunes" once per unique error type

- Change: Separate path from name/destination in add torrent dialog

- Fix: fixed bug where SSDP UUID in UPnP broadcast was inconsistent and didn't match settings

- Change: added codec information for mp4, mov and mkv and to the webui streamables

- Feature: Display allocating status of torrents

- Fix: fixed bug where multi-file torrents would not be copied to new volumes

- Fix: fixed potential installer hang when there's no internet connection

- Fix: fixed bug where sometimes active torrents would not inline in RSS feed view

- Fix: fixed GDI object leak when preparing to stream

[RdH]

I just want to know, why you stick with uTorrent 2.2.1?

;)

My own reasons:

1. Very small.

2. No adware.

3. No third party components in setup file included.

4. Only torrent download necessary parts in the GUI.

5. Translation automatic download on first install.

6. Automatic bandwith configuration after testing bandwith.

Version: 2.2.1.25110

wow, I'll try it later

but now I use vuze :rolleyes:

[DKT27]

@psyko666: Thanks, but I've not written the article. I've just posted it here. The article is written and belongs to Torrentfreak. Only the email belongs to me. :)

If you guys really like 2.2.1, then you'll surely like qBitTorrent.

@grouchysmurf: I think only future versions will have ads. They are yet to implement it.

[Olexijl]

Very important note for all people wanna downgrade from 3.1.3/3.2.0 to 2.x:

Your download torrent list may be screwed (so displayed wrong) when downgrade to 2.x

Reason:

That is because 3.x and 2.x use different formats to store settings and download torrent list.

Solution:

1. Make sure you have completed EVERY TORRENT you have in download list.

2. Uninstall uTorrent 3.x you have now.

3. You will be asked on uninstall, if your settings should be deleted. This will also delete all torrent list you downloaded. This won't delete your torrents! Delete your settings and torrent list!

4. Install uTorrent 2.x. Your settings are lost, your torrent list is lost as well. However from now on, your settings and download torrent list will be stored in 2.x format.

I recommend uTorrent 2.2.1 build 25110

[Pompous_King]

Transmission Qt (TrQt) not mentioned in the list. I like you to tell all readers about it.

TrQt is a unofficial transmission client port for Windows. It has been updated periodically keeping sync with official versions.

The developer of the port is a really nice man. He answers all queries and tries to fulfill features requests made by the USERS.

It compiled from latest source available at official Transmissionbt.com website. Plus the developer has also added some nice feature for Windows builds. Its also Free from any spyware, ad-ware or other unnecessary S/W.

You can find out the latest version here:-

*Official site of unofficial version * is here https://sourceforge....ission-Qt/2.6x/

*Download latest version * here:- (Fast and lightweight)

https://downloads.so...&use_mirror=ncu

Please download it and use it. You will certainly like it. It consumes less disk space also. Also suggest any features you want to the developer at the sourceforge site of TrQt.

Thanks.

Keep it Cool. Truth is the sole of my life.

[psyko666]

Thanks, but I've not written the article. I've just posted it here. The article is written and belongs to Torrentfreak. Only the email belongs to me

I know but you send the mail and gave them the right info! :)

[grouchysmurf]

@psyko666: Thanks, but I've not written the article. I've just posted it here. The article is written and belongs to Torrentfreak. Only the email belongs to me. :)

If you guys really like 2.2.1, then you'll surely like qBitTorrent.

@grouchysmurf: I think only future versions will have ads. They are yet to implement it.

Yeah, I sort of figured that. As I said, I will keep what I have for now. It works with out any hassles.

And by the way, nice email. ;)

[DKT27]

TrQt is a unofficial transmission client port for Windows/

Probably the reason it's not mentioned. ;)

Thanks, but I've not written the article. I've just posted it here. The article is written and belongs to Torrentfreak. Only the email belongs to me

I know but you send the mail and gave them the right info! :)

I see. :)

Yeah, I sort of figured that. As I said, I will keep what I have for now. It works with out any hassles.

And by the way, nice email. ;)

:)

@Everyone: Thing is, as time passes by, some feature in current clients will get obsolete. If I would be the one using uTorrent, then I would stick to the current version too, but that's why I say, start trying new clients.

[DNM]

If you guys really like 2.2.1, then you'll surely like qBitTorrent.

Yeah, the new qBittorrent v3 is a VERY good Torrent client and a good replacement for uT v2.2.1.

[pweeseonichan]

when my private trackers allow other clients than utorrent I will probably switch to another bittorrent program with more advanced technology and feature than utorrent.

[avmad]

Thanks. I'll try out

Tixati

next time. (I rarely use p2p. I'm a usenet guy) :)

[tipo]

thanks for the list dkt27. great list. i`m using v2 of utorrent and not going to change it..(at least in the near future) :cheers: