Transmission

Free torrent client for Mac with a native interface, magnet links and a web remote.

Alternative toFolx
Try App

Transmission is a BitTorrent client for Mac. The Mac version is a native app rather than a cross-platform port, and it runs natively on Apple silicon. It is an open source project run by volunteers.

Open a .torrent file or a magnet link and Transmission starts downloading with defaults that work out of the box. A few clicks turn on watch folders, which pick up new torrent files on their own, peer blocklists, speed limits and the built-in web interface for managing downloads from another device. You can also edit trackers, and Quick Look previews .torrent files in Finder. While torrents run it keeps the Mac from idle sleep and supports Low Power Mode.

Transmission uses little memory and CPU, which is why it also runs on home NAS boxes and routers. The project says it bundles no toolbars or ads, does not track users and does not hold features back for a paid version. It suits anyone who wants a plain torrent client without adware.

It is licensed under GPL-2.0 or GPL-3.0. Version 4.1.4 needs macOS 12 or later. Download it from transmissionbt.com or install it with Homebrew.

Frequently asked questions

Is Transmission free?

Yes. Transmission is free, has no paid version and shows no ads.

Is Transmission safe and open source?

Transmission is open source under GPL-2.0 or GPL-3.0, with its code on GitHub. Version 4.1.4 fixed a security issue in the Mac client that required local write access to your preferences, so keep the app updated. It checks for updates on its own.

How do I install Transmission?

Download the DMG from transmissionbt.com, or run brew install --cask transmission in Terminal. For command-line use, brew install transmission-cli installs the command-line tools.

What macOS version does Transmission need?

Transmission 4.1.4 needs macOS 12 Monterey or later. It has been Apple silicon native since version 4.0.

How does Transmission compare to Folx?

Folx from Eltima is a general download manager that also handles torrents and magnet links. Its PRO version starts at $19.95 and adds scheduling, speed adjustment and built-in torrent search. Transmission handles only BitTorrent, is free and open source, and includes a web interface for remote control.

Can I control Transmission from another computer?

Yes. Turn on the web interface in Transmission's settings, then open it in a browser on another device. The transmission-remote command-line tool can control it too.

Gallery

No images yet.

Apps like Transmission

More apps from Files & Storage.

More in Files & Storage

View all