NmapAngry IP Scanner
VSWinSCP vs FileZilla
By the Aptorise editorial team · Updated 2 October 2026
Overview
WinSCP and FileZilla are two widely used free graphical clients for copying files to and from servers. Both handle SFTP, FTP and FTPS with a familiar two-pane, drag-and-drop layout. The main differences are platform and depth: WinSCP is a Windows application with automation features and close PuTTY integration, while FileZilla also runs on macOS and Linux.
| WinSCP | FileZilla | |
|---|---|---|
| Platforms | Windows | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Price | Free and open source | Open Source |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Key features |
| None listed |
| Ease of use | Easy for everyday transfers. The Commander and Explorer layouts suit different habits, and the extra options are there when you need them. | Easy: the Site Manager stores your servers, and the queue shows every transfer in progress. |
| Best for | Windows users who also want SCP, scripted or scheduled transfers, folder synchronisation, or integration with PuTTY. | Anyone who wants the same file transfer client on Windows, macOS and Linux for SFTP and FTP. |
| Verified installs | Winget | APT, Flatpak |
| Recommended in | Network Engineer, IT Engineer / IT Support, System Administrator | Network Engineer, IT Engineer / IT Support |
| Official source | winscp.net | filezilla-project.org |
Advantages and limitations
WinSCP
Advantages
- Easy drag and drop
- Free
Limitations
- Windows only
FileZilla
Major differences
- WinSCP is Windows only; FileZilla also runs on macOS and Linux.
- WinSCP supports SCP, WebDAV and Amazon S3 in its free version; in FileZilla, cloud storage and WebDAV are part of the paid FileZilla Pro.
- WinSCP has a scripting interface and a .NET library for automation; FileZilla is designed for interactive use.
- WinSCP can import PuTTY sessions and open a PuTTY terminal for the same server.
- Both clients are free and open source.
Which one suits you?
On Windows, WinSCP is usually the stronger choice, especially if you use PuTTY or want to automate transfers. If you move between Windows, macOS and Linux, FileZilla gives you one familiar client everywhere. On Windows, read each installer screen carefully whichever you choose, and decline any optional extra software you don't want.
