Feature-rich download manager for scheduling, tracking, and organizing frequent downloads despite a clunky interface
Feature-rich download manager for scheduling, tracking, and organizing frequent downloads despite a clunky interface
Pros
- Users can schedule downloads within seconds.
- A number of useful features baked into the program.
- Dedicated download managers may prove useful for some.
Cons
- This is an ugly program with no design philosophy.
- Confusing interface can make regular use a bit awkward.
- In-browser download managers work well enough on their own.
Free Download Manager allows users to better manage their downloaded files. Through this useful program, an individual can schedule all downloads within seconds. The program includes a number of useful features as well as a minor learning curve. Anyone that downloads files on a regular basis will appreciate the featureset in this program. These days, most Web browsers include a native download manager that works. Quite a few people would be surprised at the many benefits of using a dedicated manager, though.
What Does Free Download Manager Offer To Its Users?
Users can initiate or schedule a download in one of three ways. First, they can drag and drop a downloadable file into the program. It's possible to use the File > Open option as well. Downloads started on the computer should show up in Free Download Manager, too. All files can be manipulated in the same manner. While a file downloads, individual users can see the download progress, stop or pause the download, or schedule it for later.
In various drop down menus and tabs, users can manage multiple files. Files may be categorized and sorted according to countless metrics. The power to sort files and categorize them at will proves a handy feature for users. PCs filled with hundreds or thousands of files benefit most from these features. Still, even smaller users can take advantage of these features, simplifying their computer usage in minutes.
The Downsides and The Negatives
While Free Download Manager works well, the program isn't perfect. Most users will notice right away how cluttered and ugly the program looks at first glance. A half-dozen icons litter the navigation bar with no explanation of their purpose. Nobody will call the user interface smooth or enjoyable to use. Sure, the program works as intended, but a better design would make it a must-have rather than a simple recommendation.
Perhaps the biggest issue with Free Download Manager is Web browsers. Every Web browser includes a basic download manager with a handful of features. For the average user, this native manager will work better than other, more complicated solutions. Not everyone needs a big, fancy download manager in order to keep their downloads organized.
Free Download Manager: The Verdict
In the end, Free Download Manager is easy to recommend with certain reservations. The program should feature a better design and a better user experience. It's not the best free solution out there due to these concerns. Nonetheless, Free Download Manager gets enough right to where it's a recommendation. Users with regular downloads should consider the program for their needs. Giving it a try is as simple as starting a download since the program is free.
Pros
- Users can schedule downloads within seconds.
- A number of useful features baked into the program.
- Dedicated download managers may prove useful for some.
Cons
- This is an ugly program with no design philosophy.
- Confusing interface can make regular use a bit awkward.
- In-browser download managers work well enough on their own.
Pros
- Lets you drag and drop files for fast downloading
- Shows different files you downloaded for easy organization and management
- Keeps track of bit torrents and other types of downloads
- Helps you manage uploads that you share with others
- Allows you to schedule downloads for the future
Cons
- Isn't easy to use initially
- Has a somewhat clunky design
- Does many of the same functions that a web browser does
- Only works with computers running a Windows operating system
Free Download Manager creates an efficient and easy to follow list of all programs you are in the process of downloading and those you downloaded in the recent past.
You might think that you don't need a program of this type because you can view the files and programs you download instantly in your web browser. Chrome and other browsers let you click a button on the screen to view the files you downloaded in the last few hours, days or weeks. Other programs will download those files and place those files on the bottom of the page. Clicking the title will open up that file or run that program. Free Download Manager lets you monitor and view your downloads, but it also helps you manage those downloads.
One great feature of this program is that it lets you view all types of downloaded files. The buttons running across the top of the screen show you all downloaded files, bit torrents that you chose, any uploads currently running and flash videos downloaded. Most web browsers show you a list of downloaded files without letting you select the exact type you want to view.
Free Download Manager includes category listings for types of files too. Though you can view all downloaded content, you can also view only music files, videos or programs. It also lets you filter those downloads according to completed downloads, those still in progress, any files you stopped and downloads you schedule for the future. If you change your mind about a file, you can drag it right into the recycling bin and then delete it from your computer.
This program offers an alternative way to download content as well. Instead of clicking on links, waiting for your browser to recognize that link and then waiting even longer for the file to download, you can simply drag the link for that download into the open Free Download Manager window to begin the download process. Unlike other free management software, this one lacks harmful add-on content like malware or adware.
Free Download Manager will only work with Windows operating systems and will not work on other computers. Though easy to use, some find that it has a bland interface. It often takes a few hours for inexperienced users to figure out how it works, and some may find that they can effectively manage their downloads via their own web browsers. Free Download Manager has some benefits but not enough for experienced computer users.
Pros
- Lets you drag and drop files for fast downloading
- Shows different files you downloaded for easy organization and management
- Keeps track of bit torrents and other types of downloads
- Helps you manage uploads that you share with others
- Allows you to schedule downloads for the future
Cons
- Isn't easy to use initially
- Has a somewhat clunky design
- Does many of the same functions that a web browser does
- Only works with computers running a Windows operating system
