Our verdict: FrostWire is a torrent client aimed at people who want search, download and playback in one app instead of a browser plus a separate client. It previews media before transfers finish and has a built-in library and player. Experienced users may prefer leaner clients like qBittorrent, and the download page shows VPN advertising.
About FrostWire
FrostWire is a free, open-source file-sharing app released under the GNU GPL v3 for Windows, macOS, Linux and Android. The desktop version is a BitTorrent client with an in-app search that queries several torrent search engines and cloud sources for public domain, Creative Commons and other freely downloadable files.
Results show up inside the app rather than in a browser, and you can download a whole torrent or pick single files. Media can be previewed and played before the download completes, and a built-in library and player organize what you have downloaded. The Windows build requires 64-bit Windows 10 or later and at least 256 MB of RAM.
What it does well
- In-app search. Searches several torrent engines and cloud sources and shows results inside the app.
- Preview while downloading. Stream cloud files or play torrent media before the transfer finishes.
- Selective downloads. Download one file from a torrent or the whole package.
- Media library and player. Browse, organize and play downloaded music and video in the app.
- Cross-platform. Desktop apps for Windows, macOS and Linux plus an Android app.
Who it is for
Good fit
Casual users who want to search, download and play free media files from one app.
Look elsewhere
Torrent power users who want a minimal client with advanced queue, RSS and tracker controls.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Search built into the client
- Play media before the download finishes
- Built-in media library and player
- Free and open source
Cons
- Heavier than lean clients like qBittorrent
- Download page shows VPN advertising
- Fewer advanced torrent settings than specialist clients
How to install FrostWire
The button downloads the official 64-bit Windows installer from FrostWire's GitHub releases, the same file linked on frostwire.com. The download page also shows VPN offers that you can ignore. Only download files you have the right to share; the in-app search covers public torrent sites.
Questions about FrostWire
Is FrostWire free?
Yes. FrostWire is free and open source under the GNU GPL v3, with no subscription.
Is FrostWire legal?
The software is legal. What matters is what you download: FrostWire is meant for public domain, Creative Commons and other files you are allowed to share.
What does FrostWire need to run on Windows?
64-bit Windows 10 or later, at least 256 MB of RAM (512 MB recommended) and an internet connection. The last 32-bit installer was version 6.7.9.
