Introduction
Torrenting can unequivocally be declared as the most sought-after pastime these days. This can be attributed to the fact that peer-to-peer file sharing is more convenient in contrast to booking tickets to movies, shows, etc. When we speak of torrenting platforms available in the market currently, there are two names that can be regarded as the OG of torrent clients. They are uTorrent and BitTorrent.
Though the two platforms originate from the same roots, there are certain differences that exist between them in terms of download speed, file size, etc. which need to be analysed before narrowing in on which is better and more secure.
Also Read: How To Make uTorrent Faster?
What Is BitTorrent?
BitTorrent permits file sharing over the internet in a decentralized manner. It helps transferring digital video files and audio files. This communication protocol helps in distributing data and electronic files on network-connected PCs. This client deploys the BitTorrent protocol and is compatible with operating systems like qBittorrent, Xunlei Thunder, uTorrent Vuze, Deluge, Tixati, Transmission, BitComet, etc.
Trackers of this ad-supported torrent client help in identifying peer users (seeds) who can transfer the files and they also offer diverse files to choose from. However, the BitTorrent client has been merely a rebranded version of uTorrent since version 6.0.
Accessibility and usage of BitTorrent might be restricted by certain Internet Service Providers and users might have to resort to VPNs to bypass those geographical restrictions.
What Is uTorrent?
uTorrent, a proprietary adware BitTorrent client, was designed to use as little PC resources as possible. Though its operation is similar to that of large BitTorrent clients like BitComet and Vuze, uTorrent utilizes a minimal amount of RAM. uTorrent is essentially a very small BitTorrent client.
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Since its original release, uTorrent has been actively developed. BitTorrent, Inc. is the owner and maintainer of the uTorrent code, despite Ludvig Strigeus’ initial development. Additionally, BitTorrent used that code as the foundation for its version 6.0 and later BitTorrent client, which is essentially a rebranded version of uTorrent.
uTorrent Vs BitTorrent
Wondering which of the two torrenting platforms is the best fit for your requirements? Check out a detailed comparison below with respect to parameters like pricing, download speed, file size, etc. to ascertain which is better.
1. Pricing
There are four levels of pricing available with BitTorrent. The free plan offers only a quick torrent download and no additional features. The ad-free subscription plan prices at $4.95 displays no advertisements during installation. Features like virus protection, ad-free sharing, file transcoding and swift downloads come with the Pro plan which costs $19.95 annually. The fourth plan, Pro+VPN offers a CyberGhost VPN that safeguards your identity while downloading torrents online.
In case of uTorrent, the free edition offers only torrent downloading and no extra features. The Pro version of the same offers protection against malware and viruses, ad-free downloads, torrent streaming, HD file playback and file conversion.
BitTorrent’s VPN function makes it a safer alternative to uTorrent.
2. Download Speed
Load time is one of the most crucial features to consider when downloading games, files, etc. BitTorrent is faster in this aspect compared to uTorrent. Though both the torrenting platforms offer a bandwidth management scheme, BitTorrent’s ad management abilities are more advanced and hence, the speed of torrent downloads is higher even when ads are displayed. The avg speed is 76 kbps.
3. Size
Contrary to BitTorrent, uTorrent is more compact and occupies a storage space of only 1Mb. The former platform occupies 3Mb space. This make uTorrent a more preferred alternative for those who want less storage space to be consumed on their devices.
4. Portability
You can keep the torrent client on a USB drive if you have uTorrent’s portable edition. You may then start it right away without having to install anything prior. This functionality, at present is not supported by BitTorrent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is uTorrent better than BitTorrent in terms of performance?
Yes, uTorrent outperforms BitTorrent when it comes to performance. uTorrent has better speed but all other features like design and compatibility are more or less similar in both torrenting platforms. Mac users, however, prefer BitTorrent over uTorrent.
2. Are uTorrent and BitTorrent safe?
Both uTorrent and BitTorrent are safe applications that can be downloaded on any device. However, it is important to be mindful when downloading uTorrent since it might contain some third-party applications that might harm your computer. To ensure safety of your device, check whether the torrent you downloaded has any viruses.
3. Is BitTorrent compatible with Windows 10?
Both uTorrent and BitTorrent are compatible with Windows 10 and do not obstruct their downloads. However, it might necessitate Windows Firewall exception when launching these applications.
