FreeRapid Downloader

What FreeRapid Downloader is

FreeRapid Downloader is a free Java application for downloading links from file-sharing services and websites. To use it, copy a link in a browser and paste it into the application. Its homepage says it supports more than 730 sites, including YouTube, Vimeo, Dailymotion, Facebook, and file-hosting services. It can download from multiple services concurrently and includes proxy lists, download history, clipboard monitoring, server file checks, and automatic shutdown options. The homepage also describes support for streamed videos or pictures and simple CAPTCHA recognition, though some CAPTCHA types cannot be recognized automatically.

FreeRapid runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS, and a portable version is listed. It requires at least Sun or Oracle Java 6 or Java 7 to start. The download page lists version 0.9u4, released on 18 May 2014. The software is free under the GNU GPL license, with source code open under that license. Downloads can resume only when the hosting server supports resuming. For plugin problems, the site directs users to its forum and asks them to include application and plugin versions, reproduction details, and affected links.

Who it suits

FreeRapid suits people who want a free desktop downloader for links from supported file-hosting and media sites, with Windows, Linux, or macOS support. Its concurrent downloads, clipboard monitoring, and portable version may be useful to people managing several links from a desktop application.

Limits

FreeRapid is free under the GNU GPL license. Some CAPTCHA types cannot be recognized automatically, and downloads resume only when the hosting server supports it.

Getting started

1. Visit https://wordrider.net/freerapid/.
2. Choose the download for Windows, Linux, or macOS, or the listed portable version.
3. Make sure Sun or Oracle Java 6 or Java 7 is available to start the application.
4. Copy a supported link from a browser and paste it into FreeRapid.

Verdict

Choose FreeRapid if you want a free, open-source desktop downloader with support for many services and concurrent downloads. Look elsewhere if you need Android or command-line-only use, or if the hosting server does not support resuming downloads.