Moving files securely isn't optional anymore. Whether you're deploying code, syncing backups, or exchanging sensitive data with partners, you need a tool that gets files where they need to go without exposing them to every script kiddie with a packet sniffer.
FTP clients and SFTP clients handle that job. Some are lightweight and simple. Others pack in automation, scripting, and support for dozens of protocols. The right one depends entirely on what you're actually doing with files, not necessarily which one has the longest feature list.
This guide covers the best clients available in 2026, breaks down their pros and cons, and suggests who they are a good fit for.
A note on FTP vs SFTP: While this guide focuses primarily on SFTP clients (which provide encrypted, secure file transfers), most modern FTP clients also support SFTP, FTPS, and other protocols. If you're searching for "FTP clients," you're in the right place—the tools covered here handle FTP, FTPS, and SFTP. However, for any sensitive data or production use, you should be using SFTP or FTPS, not plain FTP.
New to the file transfer world or need a refresher? Check out What is FTP and how does it work for the fundamentals before choosing a client.
Quick Reference: Find Your Client Fast
Need a quick comparison at a glance? Check out our list here and click a client name to jump straight to their dedicated breakdown.
| You Need | Recommended Client | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Windows automation & scripting | WinSCP | Windows |
| macOS native experience | Transmit 5 | macOS |
| Simple cross-platform use | FileZilla / Cyberduck | Win/Mac/Linux |
| Cloud storage integration | Cyberduck | Win/Mac |
| Enterprise security features | Bitvise | Windows |
| Command-line scripting | OpenSSH | Unix/Linux/Mac |
| Managed service (no servers) | Couchdrop | Web-based |
How to pick an FTP/SFTP client
Not all FTP clients and SFTP clients solve the same problems. Some are built for developers who live in terminals. Others are designed for teams juggling multiple cloud services. Some try to be a balanced blend.
Here's what actually matters when choosing:
Protocols and integrations - Does it support SFTP, FTPS, WebDAV, or cloud services like S3 and Google Drive? If you're only moving files to a single server, basic SFTP is enough. If you're managing multiple cloud accounts, you need broader support.
Automation capabilities - Can you script transfers, schedule jobs, or sync folders automatically? Manual drag-and-drop is fine for occasional use. Regular jobs like daily transfers need some kind of automation.
Security features - Does it support SSH key authentication, encrypted credential storage, and modern encryption standards? If you're handling sensitive data, security features aren't negotiable.
Platform support - Is the client Windows, macOS, Linux, or web-based? Some clients work everywhere. Others are platform-specific but integrate better with that platform.
Interface preference - How do users actually interact with the product? Is it a graphical interface or does it require command-line control?
With that established, let's look at the options.
Cross-Platform FTP clients
FileZilla
Best for: Basic FTP and SFTP transfers across any OS
FileZilla is one of the most well-known FTP clients in the world. It's free, open-source, and runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Filezilla has been around for over two decades and remains one of the most popular file transfer clients. The dual-pane interface is straightforward; local files on one side, remote files on the other. Simply drag and drop to move files.
One of the reasons FileZilla is so popular is because of its versatility. It supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP, handles large files reliably (4GB+), and includes a transfer queue with pause and resume. The interface hasn't changed dramatically in years, which means it's stable and predictable, though not particularly modern.
What it does well:
- Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux without behavioral changes
- Handles large file transfers reliably
- Free and actively maintained
- Uncomplicated interface (though it's starting to look dated)
- Good performance for straightforward transfers
What it doesn't do well:
- The official Windows installer includes bundled software. You can avoid this by using the "clean" installer (not the "recommended" option) under additional options when downloading the client.
- No cloud storage support in the free version (available in FileZilla Pro)
- The dated interface could use a refresh
- Maximum of 10 simultaneous transfers for FTP connections
- No automation built-in
FileZilla is a solid choice when you need a simple, reliable client that works on any platform.
Website: https://filezilla-project.org
Cyberduck
Best for: Users who need SFTP and a cloud storage browser in one tool
Cyberduck is a free, open-source client for Windows and macOS that supports FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and an extensive list of cloud services—Amazon S3, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, Microsoft Azure, Backblaze B2, and many more.
The interface is clean and modern. You can bookmark frequently used connections, open and edit remote files directly without downloading them first, and sync folders between local and remote locations. It includes a command-line tool called "duck" for automation, though the CLI isn't as mature as WinSCP's scripting.
What it does well
- Clean, modern interface that feels native to both platforms
- Bookmarking makes frequent connections quick to access
- Integrated file editing (launches your default editor)
- Mount and browse multiple cloud storage locations on your desktop
- Free and actively maintained
- Client-side encryption support via Cryptomator integration
What it doesn't do well:
- No tabbed interface for managing multiple simultaneous connections
- Automation features less robust than dedicated tools like WinSCP
- Performance can lag with very large directory listings
- No Linux or web-based browser support
Cyberduck is a strong all-around client, particularly if you're working with cloud storage. If you need a single tool to manage SFTP, S3, and Google Drive on your desktop, this is a solid option.
Website: https://cyberduck.io
FTP clients for Windows
WinSCP
Best for: Windows users who need scripting and automation
WinSCP is free, open-source, and has been around long enough to have a lot of the rough edges smoothed out. It supports SFTP, SCP, FTP, FTPS, WebDAV, and Amazon S3. The dual-pane interface makes it straightforward to move files between local and remote systems, though like many other clients, it's starting to feel dated.
Where WinSCP stands out is automation. You can script transfers, schedule jobs with Task Scheduler, and integrate it with PuTTY for SSH terminal access. It includes both GUI and command-line interfaces, making it suitable for everything from manual transfers to fully automated workflows. There's also a portable version that runs from a USB drive without installation.
What it does well:
- Scripting and command-line support for automated workflows
- Lightweight and fast, even on older hardware
- Integrates seamlessly with PuTTY for SSH sessions
- Free, actively maintained, and completely stable
- Comprehensive documentation for scripting
What it doesn't do well:
- Interface feels dated compared to modern tools
- No native support for most cloud storage services beyond S3 and WebDAV
- Limited file preview capabilities without downloading
- Lacks detailed audit trails
WinSCP is a workhorse. It's not flashy, and the interface won't win design awards, but it handles secure file transfers reliably and has the scripting capabilities professionals and businesses need.
Website: https://winscp.net
Bitvise SSH Client
Best for: Enterprises needing security and compliance features
Bitvise SSH Client is a professional-grade SSH and SFTP tool for Windows. It's free for personal and commercial use, but it's engineered with enterprise requirements front and center, with FIPS 140-2 cryptography support (when FIPS mode is enabled in Windows), strong encryption, and support for advanced authentication methods including Kerberos and NTLM.
Beyond basic file transfers, it includes SSH tunneling, dynamic port forwarding, and remote desktop forwarding. The graphical SFTP interface handles file management cleanly, and it includes command-line tools for scripting. The terminal emulation is excellent and arguably the best available on Windows.
What it does well:
- Strong security features with FIPS cryptography support
- Supports Kerberos and GSSAPI for single sign-on in enterprise environments
- Excellent terminal emulation with xterm and vt100 support
- Portable mode for running from USB drives
- Free with no functional limitations
What it doesn't do well:
- Speed can vary drastically depending on optimizations
- Interface is functional but feels utilitarian rather than polished
- Strong limitations on the free version
- Steeper learning curve than simpler clients
Bitvise is the choice for environments with strict security requirements or complex authentication needs. If you need Kerberos SSO or FIPS-validated cryptography, this is likely your only free option.
Website: https://www.bitvise.com/ssh-client
SmartFTP
Best for: Power users who need cloud integrations and advanced features
SmartFTP is a commercial Windows client that supports FTP, FTPS, SFTP, WebDAV, and major cloud services including Amazon S3, Google Drive, OneDrive, and Microsoft Azure. It's designed for users who need automation, synchronization, and advanced scheduling as opposed to basic file transfers.
The interface mimics Windows Explorer, so there's a minimal learning curve. Features include bulk file operations, visual file comparison, integration with password managers like KeePass and Bitwarden, and a built-in terminal for SSH access. You can also set up complex automation rules and run unlimited simultaneous transfers.
What it does well:
- Cloud storage support across multiple providers (varies by tier - Enterprise required for S3, Backblaze, and Box)
- Advanced syncing with detailed control over what gets synced
- Unlimited simultaneous transfers
- Built-in terminal eliminates the need for a separate SSH client
- Excellent automation and scripting capabilities
What it doesn't do well:
- Cloud storage integrations are locked behind the Enterprise tier
- Limited auditing and reporting on standard tiers
- Steep learning curve for automation and synchronization
- Can feel overwhelming if you just need basic transfers
SmartFTP is overkill for occasional file transfers. But if you're managing multiple cloud accounts, automating complex workflows, or handling large-scale transfers regularly, it's one of the most capable options available.
Website: https://www.smartftp.com
For macOS: Tools designed specifically for Macs
Transmit 5
Best for: Mac users who want speed and polish
Transmit 5 is a premium SFTP client built specifically for macOS. It's fast, supports a wide range of protocols (FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, S3, and numerous cloud services), and integrates with macOS features like Finder Tags, Touch Bar shortcuts, and Dark Mode.
File transfers are optimized with multi-threading and background processing. The folder synchronization feature works well for keeping local and remote directories in sync, with clear visual indicators of what will be changed. You can edit remote files without downloading them first, and the built-in batch rename is genuinely useful.
What it does well:
- Fast, multi-threaded transfers
- Deep macOS integration (feels like a native Apple app)
- Panic Sync keeps credentials synchronized across multiple Macs
- Clean, intuitive interface
- Excellent performance with large transfers
What it doesn't do well:
- Minimal cloud storage integrations with a maximum of 2 simultaneous cloud connections
- Settings can be overwhelming for casual users
- Subscription and one-time versions are available and aren't interchangeable
Transmit 5 is arguably the best SFTP client available for Mac. If you're on macOS and move files regularly, it's worth the investment. The 7-day free trial gives you enough time to decide if it fits your workflow.
Website: https://panic.com/transmit
ForkLift 4
Best for: Mac users who want a dual-pane file manager with SFTP support
ForkLift 4 is both a file manager and an SFTP client rolled into one. The dual-pane interface makes it easy to move files between local folders, remote servers, and cloud storage. It supports FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, Amazon S3, Google Drive, OneDrive, and more.
Beyond file transfers, it includes Git integration, remote file editing, archive management, multi-rename functionality, and even an app uninstaller. The interface is customizable with themes, keyboard shortcuts, and various view modes.
What it does well:
- Dual-pane interface is efficient for both local and remote file management
- Git integration for developers
- Handles archives (zip, tar, etc.) natively
- Customizable interface with theme support
- Works as a replacement for Finder
What it doesn't do well:
- Some users find "phantom files" persist for some time after deletion
- The license is perpetual, but updates come at a yearly cost, compared to being free in some other options
- Some users report crashes after specific actions
While it's lighter on SFTP features compared to Transmit 5, ForkLift 4 is excellent if you want a file manager and SFTP client combined. It's especially valuable for developers who need Git support alongside file transfers.
Website: https://binarynights.com
Commander One
Best for: Mac users who want a free dual-pane file manager
Commander One is a free dual-pane file manager for macOS with built-in SFTP, FTP, and FTPS support. It also connects to Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Amazon S3. The interface is clean and functional, with tabbed browsing and customizable keyboard shortcuts.
Features include archive support, remote file editing, process management, and the ability to mount iOS and Android devices as drives. There's a Pro version with additional features like a built-in terminal and advanced file search, but the free version covers most use cases.
What it does well:
- Free for basic use
- Dual-pane interface with tabbed browsing
- Supports cloud storage and remote servers
- Archive management and file preview
- Regular updates and active development
What it doesn't do well:
- No single-pane view for SFTP sessions
- Some advanced features require the Pro version
- Performance can lag with very large file lists
Commander One is a solid free option for Mac users who need file management and SFTP in one tool. The Pro version is reasonably priced if you need the additional features.
Website: https://ftp-mac.com/sftp-client-mac.html
Web-Based: Access files from any browser
Monsta FTP
Best for: Teams needing browser-based file access
Monsta FTP is a web-based FTP client that runs entirely in a browser. An administrator installs it once on a server, and users access it through a web portal. No client software installation required.
It supports FTP, FTPS, SFTP, and SCP. The interface works on desktops, tablets, and smartphones. Features include drag-and-drop uploads, integrated file editing, zip extraction, and role-based permissions for team access.
What it does well:
- No client software needed—works in any modern browser
- Supports desktop and mobile devices
- Role-based permissions for team management
- Can be self-hosted or deployed to cloud infrastructure
- Good for environments where software installation is restricted
What it doesn't do well:
- Requires initial server-side setup by an administrator
- Limited automation compared to desktop clients
- Performance depends on network latency
- Not suitable for very large file transfers
Monsta FTP fills a specific niche: teams that need file access without managing client installations. It's particularly useful in educational institutions, managed service environments, or anywhere BYOD policies make standardized clients difficult.
Website: https://www.monstaftp.com
Command-Line: For scripting and automation
OpenSSH (sftp and scp)
Best for: Unix/Linux users who prefer the command line
OpenSSH is the standard SSH implementation on most Unix and Linux systems. It includes command-line tools for SFTP (sftp) and secure copy (scp). These tools are lightweight, scriptable, and available by default on macOS and most Linux distributions.
Windows users can access OpenSSH through WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux), through built-in OpenSSH on Windows 10/11, or via tools like Git Bash. The command-line interface is efficient for scripting and automation but requires familiarity with terminal commands.
What it does well:
- Included by default on most Unix/Linux systems and modern Windows
- Lightweight and fast
- Scriptable for automation and batch processing
- No GUI overhead
- Industry-standard implementation
What it doesn't do well:
- No graphical interface
- Steeper learning curve for users unfamiliar with command-line tools
- No FTP support
- Requires intricate knowledge of SFTP functionality and commands for advanced features and usage
If you're comfortable with the command line, OpenSSH is the most direct way to handle SFTP transfers.
Website: https://www.openssh.com
PuTTY PSFTP
Best for: Windows users who need command-line SFTP
PuTTY is a free SSH client for Windows that includes a command-line SFTP tool called PSFTP. It's simple, portable, and doesn't require installation. The interface is entirely text-based, suitable for users comfortable with terminal commands.
What it does well:
- Free and open-source
- Portable—runs without installation
- Lightweight and reliable
- Part of the widely-used PuTTY suite
What it doesn't do well:
- No graphical interface
- Limited automation features compared to WinSCP's scripting
- No FTP support
- Less convenient for complex workflows
PSFTP is useful for quick command-line SFTP access on Windows. For more advanced scripting and automation on Windows, WinSCP's command-line mode is generally more capable.
Website: https://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty
Beyond Desktop Clients: When You Need Both Client and Server
All the clients listed above assume you already have an SFTP server to connect to. That's fine for accessing shared hosting or a company server someone else maintains. But what happens when you need to provide SFTP access? Or how about automating file transfers between systems? Or when you need a B2B integration where partners can push files to you?
That's where you need both client and server capabilities, plus the infrastructure to keep it all running reliably.
Couchdrop
Best for: Business-critical file transfers, B2B integration, and transfer automation
Couchdrop is both an SFTP client and server platform designed for business-critical file transfer workflows. Unlike desktop clients that just connect to servers or DIY servers you have to maintain yourself, Couchdrop provides the complete infrastructure for automated, bidirectional file transfers.
Couchdrop isn't competing with FileZilla or WinSCP. Those are tools for using SFTP. Couchdrop is file transfer infrastructure for operating SFTP-based workflows at scale. If you're doing B2B integration, automated transfers between systems, or providing SFTP services to partners, you need more than a desktop client.
This is where it differs fundamentally from the tools listed earlier. Couchdrop is everything you need for secure file transfers. You have access to multiple file transfer tools and settings to ensure files move reliably 24/7 without manual intervention and without having to worry about infrastructure.
What makes Couchdrop different?
Bidirectional transfers: Couchdrop works bidirectionally. You can still pull files from a server, but you can also make use of SFTP endpoints where partners can push files to you, while simultaneously connecting to their systems to pull data. You control both sides.
No infrastructure: Zero infrastructure means just that. There are no servers or VMs to manage. Updates and patches apply automatically. You can focus on your business, not infrastructure.
B2B integration: Trading partners, vendors, and customers can connect via SFTP/FTPS/HTTPS to exchange files. You manage credentials, monitor transfers, and handle errors—all from a single dashboard.
Transfer automation: Files automatically route between systems based on rules you define. A file arrives from a partner, gets processed, and automatically forwards to any of the 30+ supported systems, with no manual intervention required.
Cloud storage integration: Couchdrop integrates with over 50 cloud platforms. Connect to S3, Azure Blob, Google Cloud Storage, Dropbox, OneDrive, or dozens of other services.
Monitoring and alerts: See exactly what transferred, when, and whether it succeeded. Get alerts when transfers fail. Audit logs for compliance.
Enterprise features: SSO integration, role-based access controls, IP whitelisting, PGP encryption, compliance reporting, SLA guarantees.
When Couchdrop makes sense:
- You need to provide SFTP access to partners/customers - They need to push files to you, not just pull from a shared server
- B2B file exchange - Trading partners each have different protocols and requirements
- Transfer automation is critical - Ensure business-critical files flow automatically and reliably.
- Uptime and reliability matter - SLA-backed infrastructure, not a server under someone's desk
- Compliance requirements - Audit trails, encryption at rest and in transit, access controls
- You don't have file infrastructure resources in place - Avoid building file transfer infrastructure you don't need and go straight to the solution.
- You just need to access an existing SFTP server occasionally
- Someone else maintains the infrastructure
- Manual file transfers are sufficient
- You're doing simple one-off tasks
Which FTP or SFTP Client Should You Actually Use?
There is no universally "best" FTP client or SFTP client. The right choice depends on your specific workflows and use cases. Then of course there's the "feel" of the product, which can be just as or more important than abstract feature comparisons.
The best way to find out which client is right is to check that it should meet your requirements, then run a free trial before committing. Most of these clients offer either a free trial or a free version so you can test 2-3 options before deciding.
With Couchdrop, testing is simple thanks to the instant access 14-day trial. You don't even need a credit card. Simply register for an account and get full access immediately.