Downloading files over HTTP can be as simple as clicking a link — but if you're dealing with large files, multiple downloads, or slow connections, a good downloader makes all the difference. Here are the 10 best HTTP downloader software for PC, split into free and paid options, complete with pros, cons, and a detailed comparison.

🆓 Free HTTP Downloaders

1. Free Download Manager (FDM)

Website: https://www.freedownloadmanager.org/

Pros:

• Supports HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, BitTorrent
• Resume broken downloads
• Built-in bandwidth control
• Modern UI, browser integration (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)

Cons:

• Torrent features can be buggy
• Installer may offer bundled software

Best For: Users who want a full-featured downloader without paying.

2. Internet Download Accelerator (IDA)

Website: https://westbyte.com/ida/

Pros:

• Segment downloads for faster speed
• Works well with all browsers
• Site manager and scheduler included

Cons:

• Free version shows ads
• Interface feels outdated

Best For: Users looking for a reliable, classic downloader.

3. JDownloader 2

Website: https://jdownloader.org/

Pros:

• Open source and cross-platform
• Captcha recognition, automation tools
• Supports link decryption

Cons:

• Java-based (can be resource-heavy)
• Installation can be tricky (watch for adware)

Best For: Advanced users and power downloaders.

4. uGet Download Manager

Website: https://ugetdm.com/

Pros:

• Lightweight and open source
• CLI integration (for Linux fans)
• Batch downloading

Cons:

• No browser plugin for auto-capture
• Not ideal for casual users

Best For: Minimalist or Linux-savvy users on Windows.

5. Xtreme Download Manager (XDM)

Website: https://xtremedownloadmanager.com/

Pros:

• Fast download speeds via segmentation
• Smart video grabber (YouTube, etc.)
• Clean UI, cross-platform

Cons:

• Can be glitchy with certain sites
• Limited support/community

Best For: Users who download lots of videos or large files.

💰 Paid HTTP Downloaders

6. Internet Download Manager (IDM)

Price: ~$11.95/year or $24.95 lifetime
Website: https://www.internetdownloadmanager.com/

Pros:

• Lightning-fast segmented downloads
• Seamless browser integration
• Powerful scheduler and resume features

Cons:

• Windows only
• UI feels dated

Best For: Professionals who need reliability and speed.

7. Ninja Download Manager

Price: ~$19 (one-time)
Website: https://ninjadownloadmanager.com/

Pros:

• Beautiful UI
• Media preview and speed throttling
• Built-in video/audio conversion

Cons:

• Limited advanced features
• Slower updates

Best For: Users who want an easy-to-use and modern downloader.

8. EagleGet Pro

Price: Subscription model (Pro version only)
Website: https://www.eagleget.com/

Pros:

• Smart download scheduler
• Malware checker integration
• HD video downloader

Cons:

• Ad-supported free version
• Development seems slower lately

Best For: Media-focused downloaders and basic power users.

9. Download Accelerator Plus (DAP Premium)

Price: ~$24.95/year
Website: https://www.speedbit.com/

Pros:

• Acceleration via multiple connections
• Media preview and video converter
• Safe downloads with antivirus scanning

Cons:

• Interface hasn’t changed much over the years
• Limited free version

Best For: Long-time DAP fans or those needing media tools.

10. GetRight Pro

Price: ~$29.95
Website: https://getright.com/

Pros:

• Advanced features like scripting and proxies
• Auto recovery for downloads
• Robust resume and scheduling tools

Cons:

• Outdated design
• May be overkill for casual users

Best For: Advanced users who want fine-grained control.

📊 Comparison Table

🏁 Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the best free option, Free Download Manager or XDM is a great place to start. For a premium experience, Internet Download Manager (IDM) still reigns supreme thanks to its reliability and power.

Want something modern and sleek? Give Ninja Download Manager a shot. Prefer open-source tools? JDownloader and uGet won’t disappoint.