Comparison

RetroFTP vs FTP Client

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

RetroFTP

Features
Read full description

RetroFTP is a retro-styled FTP client for iOS that connects to FTP servers on your local network. Transfer files between your iPhone and any device running an FTP server — including media servers, NAS drives, computers, and more. FEATURES • Connect to any FTP server on your local Wi-Fi network • Browse remote directories with a full-featured file browser • Download and upload files with real-time progress tracking • Queue multiple transfers and manage them from one place • Save connection bookmarks for quick access • Favorite frequently used directories for one-tap navigation • Search files within the current directory or recursively • Create, rename, and delete files and folders remotely • Share downloaded files directly from the app • Share files from other apps to RetroFTP for easy uploading • Sort files by name, size, or date RETRO DESIGN Built with a pixel-art aesthetic inspired by classic gaming — neon green and cyan accents, CRT scanline effects, and the Press Start 2P pixel font. A nostalgic look for managing your devices. PRO UPGRADE Unlock the full experience with a one-time purchase: • 4 concurrent transfers (free: 1 at a time) • Background transfers — switch apps without interrupting downloads • Remove all banner and interstitial ads • Unlimited bookmarks and favorites • Live Activity progress on your Lock Screen TECHNICAL DETAILS • FTP and FTPS/TLS (ports 21 and 990 by default, customizable) • Passive mode with automatic PASV IP correction • Anonymous or authenticated login • MLSD support with LIST fallback for maximum compatibility • Binary transfer mode for all file types PRIVACY FIRST All your connection data, bookmarks, and files stay on your device. The free version uses Google AdMob; tracking is requested only with your permission. Anonymous analytics via TelemetryDeck help us improve the app — they cannot identify you. RetroFTP is not affiliated with any console or device manufacturer. All product names are trademarks of their respective owners.

About

FTP Client

This app provides fast and secure access to remote servers via FTP and SFTP. It allows seamless file management, including upload, download, and streaming of media directly from servers. The app also offers a built-in player and editor for various file types.

Highlights
  • Dual-protocol FTP/SFTP support
  • Stream audio and video from remote servers
  • Built-in media player
  • Full-featured file management
  • Preview and edit files
  • Wi-Fi file transfer
Features
Read full description

**FTP Client — Fast, Secure FTP & SFTP File Manager for iOS** FTP Client is a powerful dual-protocol file manager built for professionals who need fast, reliable access to remote servers. Connect to FTP or SFTP and manage your files seamlessly — anywhere, anytime. ### **Powerful Dual Protocol Support** Connect to FTP and SFTP servers with ease. Manage files with full support for upload, download, rename, move, delete, and more. Save multiple server profiles for instant one-tap access. ### **Built for Media & Streaming** Stream audio and video directly from remote servers without downloading. - VLC-powered video player with aspect ratio controls (Auto, Fill, 16:9, 4:3, 1:1, 21:9) - Playlist navigation for smooth playback - Built-in audio player with artwork, metadata, and queue modes (Normal, Repeat, Loop) ### **Full-Featured File Manager** Handle all your files in one place: - Create folders and text files instantly - Duplicate, move, rename, and delete files - Local + remote file management in a unified interface - Share via iOS system share sheet or export to Files/iCloud ### **Smart File Preview & Editing** Preview and edit files without leaving the app: - Quick Look support for dozens of file types - Built-in viewer for PDF, JSON, PLIST, and text files - Edit text files with auto-save ### **Seamless File Import** - Import photos and videos from your library - Built-in document scanner for multi-page PDFs - Automatic duplicate detection ### **Wi-Fi Transfer (No Cables Needed)** Transfer files between your iPhone/iPad and computer using any browser on the same network. ### **Transfer Control & History** - Monitor uploads and downloads in real time - Pause, cancel, or retry transfers - View full transfer history with status tracking - Configure concurrent transfers for better performance ### **Privacy & Security** Protect your files with Face ID or Touch ID authentication. ### **Customizable Experience** - Sort files by name, size, type, or date - Toggle thumbnails, delete confirmations, and date formats - Optimized for both casual and power users **FTP Client is designed for speed, reliability, and control — whether you’re managing servers, streaming media, or organizing files on the go.**

Screenshots

RetroFTP4 screens
FTP Client4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: FTP Client at none against RetroFTP's 1. FTP Client also leads on ads (none vs shown). On price, device support and iOS requirement there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. RetroFTP sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. FTP Client asks for nothing beyond the download.

Scorecard2 real differences · 7 level
RetroFTP versus FTP Client: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterRetroFTPFTP Client
PriceFreeFree
Rating—5.0 (1 ratings) — better
Number of ratings—1 — better
Update frequency—Every 6 weeks
AdsYesNo — better
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
Monetization—Free
DevicesiPhone, iPadiPhone, iPad, Mac — better
Requires iOS17.0 — better18.0
Further details — not scored
Size10 MB49 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperJacob Burns亮辉 赵

In-app purchases

1 purchases

RetroFTP

One-time1
  • RetroFTP Pro$4.99
None

FTP Client

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is RetroFTP free?
RetroFTP is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is FTP Client free?
FTP Client is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do RetroFTP or FTP Client have ads?
RetroFTP shows ads; FTP Client does not.

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