iDownload Manager review: Speeding up downloads on Windows 10

When I first saw iDownload Manager, I thought it would be a nice utility that would be ultimately redundant. After all, browsers already have download managers built in. But after using it, I can't see myself uninstalling it. It's fast, simple, and works flawlessly with web browsers through its accompanying extension.

Extremely Fast

One of the main draws of iDownload Manager is speed. The app's developer advertises it as being ten times faster than standard web browsers when it comes to download speeds. Results will vary from machine to machine but I found my downloads using the app to be extremely fast. Downloading shorter 1080p YouTube videos was practically instantaneous and longer 4K videos took less time than I expected.

iDownload Manager also manages multiple simultaneous downloads well. This makes the speed difference more apparent if you download a large number of files.

The app can limit network usage if you need it to and also picks up downloads that are interrupted by network issues.

Having a dedicated app for downloads might seem like it would add a step to your workflow because you have to jump to a separate app, but I found it to streamline the experience.

Couldn't be simpler

iDownload Manager is easy to use and gets jobs done efficiently. You can enter URLs manually or use iDownload Manager's browser extensions. Once set up, you can download content automatically through the app any time you initiate a download or use the app as a destination for a download.

The apps's download list and queue allow you to sort through your content and manage what's being downloaded.

The interface is clean, with just a few icons on the left of the app. It also has the best bug report icon that I've ever seen. That's important.

Overall thoughts on iDownload Manager for Windows 10

I'm genuinely surprised by how much I like this app. Its download speeds are fast, its interface is attractive, and its integration with Edge is smooth. It makes it easy to download things directly from the web or by pasting a link.

I didn't think I needed a download manager until I tried iDownload Manager. Now, it's a regular part of my workflow. The fact that it's free also lowers any barriers from giving it a try.

Pros

Easy to use
Works with many browsers
Fast
Free

Cons

Practically flawless (no issues worth mentioning)

Sean Endicott is a news writer and apps editor for Windows Central with 11+ years of experience. A Nottingham Trent journalism graduate, Sean has covered the industry’s arc from the Lumia era to the launch of Windows 11 and generative AI. Having started at Thrifter, he uses his expertise in price tracking to help readers find genuine hardware value.

Beyond tech news, Sean is a UK sports media pioneer. In 2017, he became one of the first to stream via smartphone and is an expert in AP Capture systems. A tech-forward coach, he was named 2024 BAFA Youth Coach of the Year. He is focused on using technology—from AI to Clipchamp—to gain a practical edge.