FlexGet

FlexGet is a configurable automation tool for media and other content, best suited to users comfortable defining workflows in YAML. Its strength is combining scheduled tasks, plugins, and download-client integrations; those looking for a polished, visual interface should look elsewhere.

Overview

FlexGet handles content ranging from torrents, NZBs, podcasts, comics, television and movies to RSS, HTML and CSV. Tasks and plugin settings are defined in YAML, so it can be shaped around varied workflows, but configuration is a real hurdle for newcomers. A validator can help identify mistakes, though it does not replace a guided setup experience.

In daemon mode, FlexGet can schedule tasks from its configuration. For series and movies, it supports automatic scheduling, searching and downloading, with sorting available in some cases. It is particularly suited to working alongside applications that use watch directories or accept external utilities, rather than serving as a standalone media interface.

Key features

Plugins and integrations

Plugins can create, filter, modify or download entries, and can alter how FlexGet operates. This makes the tool adaptable, while also placing responsibility on users to assemble and maintain their own workflows. Direct integrations include Deluge, Transmission, uTorrent, rTorrent and SABnzbd; series and movie tracking can connect with Trakt, TheTVDB or IMDb.

API and web interface

The JSON API can run independently of the web UI, and the web server can enable both. Starting that server requires setting a password. The Web UI v2 remains experimental and is not recommended for new users, so FlexGet is a stronger fit for people happy to work with configuration and the API than for anyone choosing it primarily for a finished browser-based control panel. SSL is optional but highly recommended if the UI is exposed to the internet.

Security and community

Two critical remote-code-execution vulnerabilities involving the exec and decompress plugins were addressed in version 3.20.13; users should upgrade to that version or later. The project is community-led, with forums for help, GitHub issues for bug reports and community chat for discussion, and it invites code and documentation contributions.

Pricing

FlexGet is free and open source under the MIT license. The FlexGet plan costs nothing and is installable via pip; there are no paid tiers to trade off against the core offering.

Platforms

FlexGet supports Linux, macOS, Windows and self-hosted use, with Docker installation also documented. Its API and web interface add access through those components, while cross-platform desktop support broadens where users can run it.

Who it's for

FlexGet suits technically confident users who want to automate media or other content tasks and already use compatible download clients or watch-directory workflows. It is less suitable for beginners who expect a visual workflow builder, or for users who need a mature web interface as their main way to manage automation.

Pros and cons

• Broad content coverage: tasks can work across media, feeds and structured sources such as HTML and CSV, making one tool useful for varied collection workflows.
• Flexible plugin system: plugins can create, filter, modify and download entries, but users must be comfortable composing behavior through configuration.
• Useful client and tracking integrations: direct links to popular download clients and movie or series services fit users with an existing media setup.
• Free and open source: there is no subscription cost, though the YAML-first approach demands more technical involvement than a visual automation product.
• Experimental web UI: the API is available independently, but the Web UI v2 is not recommended for new users and should not be the basis for choosing FlexGet.

Alternatives

Task Automation Software is the broader category to explore if FlexGet's media-oriented, YAML-configured approach does not match the workflow you need.

• Make is worth considering for web-based automation across Android, iOS, API and web, especially if its Free plan's 1,000 monthly credits, two active scenarios and 15-minute minimum interval suit your workload.
• Node-RED is another free, open-source option if you want automation across its listed platforms without stated paid plans or usage limits.
• Ui.Vision RPA is an alternative to compare if its listed API, browser extension and desktop platforms better fit your automation setup.
• IFTTT may suit users who want mobile and web Applets rather than FlexGet's YAML task configuration; its free plan includes two Applets and unlimited runs.
• Macro Recorder is an alternative for users focused on repeating desktop actions on macOS or Windows.
• Windmill is worth a look for self-hosted or web-based automation, with a free open-source plan that includes three workspaces and 50 users.
• Activepieces offers a free plan with 1,000 monthly credits and unlimited flows for users who prefer that flow-based approach.
• Browserflow is an alternative to consider for browser-oriented automation across its extension, API and web platforms.

Verdict

Choose FlexGet if you want free, open-source automation for media and other content and are prepared to manage tasks through YAML, plugins and compatible clients. Its flexibility and scheduling are the clearest reasons to use it; look elsewhere if you need an accessible visual builder or a stable, recommended web UI.