FileZilla Client vs WinSCP
FileZilla Client
filezilla-project.org
WinSCP
winscp.netSide by side
| Figure | FileZilla Client | WinSCP |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | — |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · FTP and SFTP clients | 8.9 (#2) | 8.7 (#4) |
| Spec score · SFTP Client Software | 8.6 (#6) | 7.9 (#15) |
| Spec score · Secure File Transfer Software | 8.6 (#7) | 7.8 (#16) |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Purpose | FileZilla describes itself as a free FTP solution. | WinSCP is an open source file manager and client for transferring files between a local computer and remote computers. |
| Support channels | The project site links to support, a community forum, and a Wiki. | Support includes Get Support, FAQ, Troubleshooting and Support Forum. |
Plans
In their own words
FileZilla Client
FileZilla Client is a free FTP solution for file transfers, with support for FTP, FTPS, and SFTP. It is available for Linux, macOS, and Windows. The project presents FileZilla Client separately from FileZilla Server, FileZilla Pro, and RemoteDrive, so those products should not be assumed to be part of the Client. Documentation includes installation instructions for Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X, plus tutorials, usage guidance, and help with connection, transfer, and network configuration problems. The Wiki also includes guidance for key-based SFTP authentication. Support resources include a community forum, Wiki, FAQ, support section, and contact page. The project site links to source code, an issue tracker, nightly builds, translations, and version history. FileZilla Pro is a separate product whose overview lists support for cloud services including S3, Google Drive, and OneDrive. No paid price or billing schedule is stated for the Client, and no free-tier limits are stated.
WinSCP
WinSCP is an open-source file manager and transfer client for Microsoft Windows. It copies files between a local computer and remote computers over FTP, FTPS, SCP, SFTP, WebDAV, WebDAVS and S3, with SSH also listed as supported. Explorer and Commander interfaces provide two ways to manage transfers; Commander is focused on keyboard control. Alongside common file operations, WinSCP includes directory synchronization and an integrated text editor. For repeat tasks or programmatic workflows, it offers scripting, command-line options and a.NET assembly. The client integrates with Windows and PuTTY, including sharing site settings with PuTTY. Authentication methods include password, keyboard-interactive, public key and Kerberos, and stored site information can optionally be protected by a master password. A portable version and workspace-based session management are available. WinSCP is free, with a listed price of free. Its security guidance warns that malware on the computer running it can steal credentials stored or entered there.