We transfer files every day, whether we realize it or not. Even something as simple as sending a picture or a text involves data transfer. While the underlying systems don’t get in our way too often, we can run into problems when we need to transfer large files across networks or to different servers.

FTP is often the answer here, and using an FTP client is a requirement — whether you’re on Mac, Windows, or even Linux. So, in today’s guide, we’ll give you an overview of FTP, how it works, selecting the right FTP client, and some of the best FTP clients currently available for Mac. 

What is FTP and Why Do You Need It on Mac?

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol, and it’s as straightforward as it sounds—a protocol designed for transferring files from one host to another. 

You get a clear way to move files efficiently from one machine to another, with the advantage of being able to download and upload files from or to your local system to a remote server. FTP is particularly useful for IT professionals, web developers, and other tech-savvy users who regularly need to handle file management tasks over a network.

On a Mac, FTP is a critical tool due to macOS’s widespread use among creative professionals, developers, and administrators who often work within a Unix-based environment that natively supports these protocols. 

Not only that, but FTP server access is essential for tasks such as website management, application development, and transferring large datasets that may not be practical through standard file-sharing services due to size or security constraints. 

Criteria for Selecting the Best FTP Client for Mac

Selecting an FTP client for your Mac involves considering several crucial factors, including security features, user interface, and file transfer speed. 

Security encryption is vital for protecting your data during transfer. Most FTP clients support standard security protocols like FTPS and SFTP to encrypt your file transfers. For instance, FileZilla, and several others which we’ll discuss in a minute, support FTP, FTP over SSL/TLS (FTPS), and SFTP, ensuring your file transfers are secure.

A user-friendly interface is key to efficiently managing your files and connections. ForkLift is praised for its Finder-like interface, making it a favorite for users who prefer a familiar environment​. Similarly, Cyberduck offers a simple, intuitive interface that supports drag-and-drop functionality, catering to users who value ease of use.

Another important criterion is whether the FTP client you’re considering will work on your version of MacOS. Some apps, such as FileZilla and Yummy FTP, have not been updated in a while and won’t function properly on the latest Macs.

Ultimately, the best FTP client for your Mac will depend on your specific needs, including the types of files you’re transferring, the servers you’re accessing, and any additional features you might require for your workflow.

With that out of the way, let’s look at some of the best FTP clients for Mac.

Best FTP Clients for Mac: Comparison

1. Commander One

• Dual-pane interface for efficient file management
• Built-in FTP, SFTP, and FTPS manager
• Supports a wide range of archive formats (including RAR, 7z, TarGz)
• Customizable themes and hotkeys
• Integrates with numerous cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.)
• Offers Root Access and Terminal Emulator in Pro version
• Advanced search capabilities with RegExp support

Commander One is a comprehensive file manager for macOS that claims to be a replacement for Finder on your Mac. It features a dual-pane interface that simplifies the process of managing and transferring files. 

Beyond basic file management, Commander One Pro offers advanced features such as a built-in FTP client, support for various archive formats, a terminal emulator, and the capability to mount MTP and iOS devices. Commander One is developed by Eltima Software, but you can also find it for download on the Mac App Store.

The standout features of Commander One include its dual-pane interface that dramatically improves file management tasks, customizable themes and hotkeys for a personalized experience, and its seamless integration with various cloud services. 

Flexibility is great for users who work with multiple cloud storage services and need a centralized platform for file management. The Pro version stands outs with features tailored for advanced users, like terminal emulation and the ability to manage file permissions over FTP, SFTP, and FTPS​.

Getting started with Commander One is straightforward:

1. Download and install Commander One from the Mac App Store or the Electronic Team’s website.
2. Open the application and explore its dual-pane interface.
3. To connect to cloud services or servers, use the “Connect” button and select the desired service.
4. Manage your files using drag-and-drop between panes or utilize the advanced features for specific tasks.

Commander One is compatible with macOS 10.12 and later, available as a free download with basic functionalities. The Pro pack upgrade costs $29.99 for a single Mac, providing advanced features. A team license is also available for $99.99, and discounts are offered to users of previous versions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Versatile file management with dual-pane interface
• Extensive cloud service integration
• Advanced features in the Pro version, including terminal emulation and archive support
• Customizable interface with themes and hotkeys

Cons:

• Pro version required for full feature set
• Some features, such as mounting iOS devices and terminal emulation, are restricted in the Mac App Store version due to Apple’s sandboxing

2. Forklift

• Connects to SFTP, FTP, WebDAV, cloud services, and more
• Quick preview of files directly within the app
• Efficient file management with tags and quick select
• Remote editing and command line tools support
• Customizable themes and extensive keyboard control
• iCloud support

Forklift is a sophisticated file manager and file transfer client for macOS, designed to offer a powerful alternative to the Finder with advanced features tailored for power users. Its dual-pane interface enables efficient file management and transfers between local drives, servers, and cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. 

The app integrates easily with macOS and offers a modern and customizable UI, with features like quick preview, tags, and remote editing enhancing productivity. You can explore Forklift’s capabilities and download it from BinaryNights.

Forklift stands out with its ability to synchronize favorites across multiple Macs using iCloud, support for connecting to a wide range of cloud services, and fast file syncing capabilities. The addition of themes allows you to personalize your experience, and the app’s support for keyboard shortcuts caters to anyone who prefers not to use a mouse. Plus, its integration of command line tools further extends its functionality for advanced users.

Forklift is available for purchase with different licensing options, including a free trial, a single license for $29.95, and family or small business licenses. It’s also accessible through Setapp, a subscription service offering a range of macOS apps

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Powerful dual-pane interface for efficient file management
• Supports a wide range of protocols and cloud services
• Customizable UI with theme support
• iCloud synchronization for favorites

Cons:

• Some users report speed issues and errors with certain macOS or hosting service combinations
• Occasional complaints about underdeveloped features and lack of support response
• Pre-upload “preparing” can be slow compared to alternatives

3. CloudMounter

• Mounts cloud storage as local drives
• Supports multiple cloud services including Amazon S3, Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive
• Encrypts files stored on cloud services
• Provides seamless access to FTP, SFTP, WebDAV servers
• Compatible with macOS and Windows

CloudMounter is a powerful utility designed to seamlessly integrate cloud storage services directly into your desktop environment, effectively turning them into local drives. This approach allows for easier management of files stored across various cloud platforms without the need to synchronize them or use separate apps for each service. For more details, visit the CloudMounter website.

One of the standout features of CloudMounter is its ability to encrypt files stored on cloud services, adding an extra layer of security to your data. This, combined with its broad support for numerous cloud storage providers and protocols like FTP, WebDAV, Amazon S3, BackBlaze, pCloud, and others, makes it a versatile tool for anyone looking to streamline their cloud storage usage.

To get started with CloudMounter:

1. Download and install the software from the official website.
2. Open CloudMounter and add your cloud accounts or server details.
3. Once connected, your cloud storage will appear as local drives, allowing you to manage files directly from your file manager.

You can get a basic version available for free that supports one connection. But if you want full capabilities, you’l need to pay for premium. The full version, which offers unlimited connections and advanced features like encryption, is available for $29.99 per year for one Mac, or $99.99 per year for up to 5 Macs.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Simplifies the management of cloud storage services
• Encrypts files for enhanced security
• Wide range of supported cloud services and protocols

Cons:

• Full functionality requires a paid license
• Performance can depend on your internet connection

4. Cyberduck

• Supports FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and various cloud storage services
• Integrates with external editors for file editing
• Offers file sharing and content distribution features
• Includes client-side encryption with Cryptomator for secure data storage

Cyberduck is a libre server and cloud storage browser available for Mac and Windows. It supports a wide range of protocols including FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and several cloud services such as Amazon S3, Google Drive, and Dropbox. The software provides a user-friendly interface that simplifies the process of transferring files and managing cloud storage. 

Cyberduck sets itself apart with its broad support for cloud services and its integration with Cryptomator, offering client-side encryption to secure your data across any server or cloud storage. This feature ensures the confidentiality of your file names, content, and structure. Moreover, its ability to generate and share CDN links for large files directly from the interface makes it a versatile tool for managing website content or large data sets. 

To get started with Cyberduck, follow these steps:

1. Download and install Cyberduck from the official website or Mac App Store.
2. Open Cyberduck and click on “Open Connection” to choose the protocol and enter your server details.
3. Navigate your files using the interface or drag and drop files to transfer them.
4. Use the bookmark feature to save connections for quick access in the future.

Since it is open-source, Cyberduck is free to use, but donations are encouraged to support the project. A registration key that disables donation prompts is provided to contributors. For those looking for additional functionality, there’s a CLI version called duck, suitable for automation and scripting tasks.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Broad support for various protocols and cloud services
• Client-side encryption with Cryptomator for enhanced security
• Intuitive interface and easy file management
• Free to use 

Cons:

• Navigating complex file systems can be challenging
• Interface aesthetics might not appeal to all users
• Occasional bugs and crashes reported in some versions

5. Transmit

• Supports various protocols including FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox.
• Includes Panic Sync for secure and fast site syncing.
• Enhanced speed with a rebuilt engine for better multithreading and folder management.
• Features like batch rename, dual-pane view, file sync, and a new activity view.

Transmit 5, developed by Panic Inc., is acclaimed for its easy, familiar, and powerful user interface that simplifies file management on tons of servers. Its strength lies in a clean interface and a wide array of supported protocols including FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, and various cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox. It also introduces Panic Sync, helping you keep secure and swift syncing of your sites across devices. 

Transmit stands out for its broad support for cloud services, significantly boosted speeds, and an intuitive UI that includes a dual-pane view making file management more efficient than using the Finder. Plus, the integration of services like Backblaze B2 and Microsoft Azure alongside classic protocols, revamped for ease-of-use and efficiency, sets Transmit apart from its competitors.

Transmit 5 offers a free trial, after which you can purchase the full version. The pricing starts at $45 for a full license. 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Wide range of supported protocols and cloud services.
• Secure and fast syncing with Panic Sync.
• Significantly enhanced speed and efficiency.
• Intuitive and user-friendly interface.

Cons:

• The trial version has limited functionality
• Some users find it overpriced compared to alternatives with similar features​

6. Filezilla

• Supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP
• User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality
• Cross-platform compatibility for Windows, Mac, and Linux
• Supports large file transfers >4GB

FileZilla is a free and open-source FTP application that supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP protocols, offering a versatile solution for file transfers across different operating systems including macOS. Its user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop functionality simplify the process of transferring files, making it accessible for both novice and experienced users. You can find more about Filezilla and download it from their official website.

One of FileZilla’s standout features is its cross-platform compatibility, which ensures it works smoothly on Windows, Linux, and macOS. It supports the transfer of large files over 4GB, so its great for moving huge amounts of data. 

The software’s interface, while functional, can appear intimidating to new users due to its detailed panels, but its reliability and efficiency in file transfer make up for this initial complexity. For Mac users, the biggest speedbump to get over is that it won’t run natively on the newest Macs (those that use M1, M2, or M3 processors).

To use FileZilla, simply download and install the application, open it, and use the Quickconnect feature or the Site Manager to start transferring files. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Download and install FileZilla from the official website.
2. Open FileZilla and enter your server details in the Quickconnect bar or save them in the Site Manager for future use.
3. Navigate your local and server files using the split interface and transfer files via drag-and-drop or the context menu.

FileZilla is available for free, but there is a Pro version with added features for working with cloud storage services. The Pro version is a paid upgrade, providing access to additional protocols and cloud storage options beyond the standard FTP capabilities

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High compatibility with various operating systems
• Efficient file management and transfer capabilities
• Free version supports essential FTP, FTPS, and SFTP functions
• Quickconnect feature for easy server access

Cons:

• Interface can be overwhelming for new users
• Bundled adware in installer from certain sources (though adware-free versions are available)
• Past security concerns with storing passwords in plain text (though improvements have been made)
• Will only run on Intel Macs natively — not Apple Silicon-based Macs.

7. Captain FTP

• Supports FTP/S, SFTP, WebDAV, and Amazon S3.
• Features scheduled transfers, accelerated transfers, resuming, auto-reconnect, and synchronization.
• Allows for changing file privileges and remote file editing.
• Enables folder and FTP site synchronization for backup solutions.

Captain FTP is an FTP client designed specifically for macOS, providing a blend of powerful FTP transfer capabilities with user-friendly functionality. Its interface, although considered by some to be outdated, offers a range of features like scheduled transfers, accelerated transfers, and synchronization, aimed at both novice and expert users.

Despite its somewhat dated UI and features like DVD burning that hint at its age, Captain FTP maintains a niche due to its specific protocol support and utility features like file synchronization and editing remote files. The ability to handle tasks such as scheduled transfers and auto-reconnection positions it as a viable option for users looking for these particular functionalities. 

Like a Filezilla and Yummy FTP, this one might not work on the latest Macs. If you have an Intel-based Mac, or if you’re running something older then Mac OS 10.12, you should be fine.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Supports essential protocols including FTP/S, SFTP, and WebDAV.
• Offers scheduled transfers and synchronization for backup solutions.
• User-friendly interface with features like drag-and-drop and virtual folders.

Cons:

• The interface and some features may seem outdated.
• Uncertainty about future updates and developer commitment.

8. Yummy FTP

• Supports FTP/S, SFTP, and WebDAV/S protocols
• Known for speed and reliability
• Features directory synchronization, scheduling, and bandwidth limiting
• Offers a built-in text editor and file/folder filtering
• Automatic failure recovery functionality
• Customizable interface including window view and bookmark manager

We’re putting this one lower on the list since it won’t work on the latest Macs. Yummy FTP was a well-regarded FTP client for Mac that stood out for its speed, reliability, and comprehensive feature set aimed at enhancing productivity for web developers and professionals managing servers or websites. This software offered support for FTP/S, SFTP, and WebDAV/S, making it versatile for various file transfer needs. 

While Yummy FTP has a promising array of features, including directory synchronization, scheduling, bandwidth limiting, and a built-in text editor, development ceased following the death of its developer in August 2018. The app, as a 32-bit software, is incompatible with macOS versions starting from 10.15 Catalina onward.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fast transfer speeds with support for major protocols
• Comprehensive feature set for advanced file management
• Customizable interface for improved workflow

Cons:

• Development ceased; no further updates or support
• Incompatible with macOS Catalina and later versions due to being 32-bit

FTP, SFTP, and FTPS: Understanding the Differences

When wading through the sea of file transfer protocols, three acronyms frequently bubble up to the surface: FTP, SFTP, and FTPS. Understanding these is crucial when selecting your FTP client.

FTP is your basic File Transfer Protocol, the granddaddy of file sharing over the internet. It’s not inherently secure, which can be a deal-breaker if you’re dealing with sensitive data. 

SFTP, or Secure File Transfer Protocol, steps up the game by tunneling through an SSH (Secure Shell) connection, providing an encrypted pathway for your files. FTPS, also known as FTP Secure or FTP-SSL, is similar to FTP but with an added layer of security through the use of SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) encryption.

The differences boil down to the level of security and the method each protocol uses to achieve it. Think of FTP as an open postcard, SFTP as a letter in a locked briefcase, and FTPS as a letter with a tamper-evident seal. Depending on the nature of your data and your security requirements, one will be more suitable than the others.

Advanced FTP Client Features for Power Users

An FTP client tailored for power users often incorporates features that streamline and automate tasks. Scripting and automation capabilities are central to this, enabling the execution of predefined commands and batch processing of files, which can save a considerable amount of time and reduce the potential for human error. This is particularly useful for repetitive tasks such as backups, directory synchronization, and large-scale deployments.

Multi-connection transfers are another feature that enhances efficiency, so you can establish multiple FTP sessions to transfer several files simultaneously. Parallel transfer capability like this leverages the available bandwidth more effectively, reducing the overall time spent on data transfers. 

Remote file editing is a feature that further streamlines workflows and lets you open and modify files stored on a server directly from within the FTP client. This capability eliminates the need for a separate download-edit-upload cycle, providing a cleaner interaction with remote files. For web developers and system administrators, this means being able to make on-the-fly adjustments to server-side scripts, configuration files, or webpages without leaving the FTP interface.

Integrating FTP clients with cloud services is another critical feature, as cloud storage solutions have become a staple in file management. Cloud service compatibility means that an FTP client can not only connect to traditional FTP servers but also interface with cloud storage providers such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and Amazon S3. This integration creates a unified access point for both local and cloud-stored files and keeps the management of data across different platforms nice and simple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tyler Harz

Tyler Von Harz is a developer and prolific writer with a passion for technology. He has a knack for simplifying complex coding topics, and as an author, he contributes to various tech platforms, combining his technical expertise and writing skills to produce impactful content. His work is driven by an insatiable curiosity and a commitment to a deeper understanding of technology.

Related posts:

A Guide to the Best Web Hosting for Developers in 2024 A Guide to Best PHP Hosting Platforms in 2024 Top PHP IDEs and Code Editors for Developers A Guide to the Best PHP Security/Vulnerability Scanners in 2024 A Guide to the Best Node.js Hosting Platforms in 2024 A Guide to the Best Wayback Machine Alternatives of 2023