Our verdict: IDM is a mature, fast download manager with very good browser integration, and the license is inexpensive. It is only worth paying for if you download large files often on an unstable connection. Free Download Manager and similar free tools cover the same basics without a trial limit.
About Internet Download Manager
Internet Download Manager (IDM) by Tonec takes over downloads from your browser through extensions for Chrome, Firefox and Edge. It splits each file into several parts that download in parallel, resumes downloads after a dropped connection or restart, sorts files into categories and can run a queue on a schedule. On pages with video or audio it shows a button to download the stream.
The trial is fully functional for 30 days and needs no account or card. After that IDM asks you to register, and Tonec states that the trial must be uninstalled if you do not buy a license. A one-year license for one PC costs $11.95 and a lifetime license $24.95.
What it does well
- Segmented downloading. Downloads parts of a file in parallel to use your full bandwidth.
- Resume support. Continues broken downloads after a network drop or reboot.
- Browser integration. Extensions for Chrome, Firefox and Edge hand downloads to IDM.
- Video grabber. Adds a download button to video and audio on web pages.
- Scheduler and queues. Start or stop downloads at set times and shut down when done.
Who it is for
Good fit
People who download large files on slow or unreliable connections and want them to resume reliably.
Look elsewhere
Users who rarely download big files, or anyone who wants an open-source or cross-platform tool.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Fast segmented downloads
- Reliable resume after interruptions
- Tight browser integration
- Cheap license, including a lifetime option
Cons
- Stops being usable after the 30-day trial without a license
- Windows only
- Video grabber does not work on every site
How to install Internet Download Manager
Run the installer, then add the IDM extension for your browser from the links on the download page; without it downloads are not captured. The trial starts on first launch and needs no account. Enter the serial number in Registration after buying.
Questions about Internet Download Manager
Is Internet Download Manager free?
No. It has a 30-day free trial with full features and no account or card. After that you need a license: $11.95 for one year or $24.95 lifetime for one PC.
Does IDM work with Chrome and Edge?
Yes. IDM provides browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox and Edge that pass downloads to the program.
Is there a free alternative?
Free Download Manager and Xtreme Download Manager offer segmented downloads and browser integration for free.
