There are a few differences when it comes to BitTorrent and uTorrent. First, it’s worth mentioning that uTorrent is a client of BitTorrent, but there are indeed performance differences when it comes to comparisons for BitTorrent vs. uTorrent.
BitTorrent is a more robust application than uTorrent; however, uTorrent appears to be the best option for a classic torrent experience. Although the BitTorrent app is a rebranded version of uTorrent, it can be used on a larger scale for business and has more extensive storage needs to accommodate it.
Although both are great options, specific uses are better suited for one or the other, which is why it is essential to read the following information to learn more and make the right choice for your needs.
| BitTorrent | uTorrent | |
| Initial Release | 2001 (protocol) 2005 (client) | 2005 |
| Owner | TRON | TRON |
| Protocol | BitTorrent | Implements BitTorrent protocol |
| Operating systems | Windows macOS Android | Windows macOS Android Linux |
| Web (browser) version | Yes | Yes |
| Encryption | Yes | Yes |
| Ads | Less and more credible ads | More ads |
| Paid version | Yes, $19.95 /year Malware protection No ads In-App streaming Convert files on the go | Yes, $19.95 /year Malware protection No ads In-App streaming Convert files on the go |
| Torrent search engine | Yes | Yes |
| Magnet links | Yes | Yes |
| VPN compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Content library | Independent artist content now.bt.co | |
| Proxy setup | http(s) SOCKS4-5 | http(s) SOCKS4-5 |
| Set up speed limits(to control bandwidth) | Yes | Yes |
| Adding torrents remotely from mobile | Yes | Yes |
| Crypto tokens for seeding | BTT | N/A |
| Automate downloads with RSS | Yes | Yes |
In short, if you’re planning to use a torrent for business needs, BitTorrent is a better option because it is most suited to this type of process and offers a broader range of security that the uTorrent doesn’t provide.
This uTorrent option is much lighter, uses less space, and can be run on an Android operating system efficiently without speed issues or concerns about how many downloads are operating simultaneously.
Although I have used both apps on my Xiaomi phone, I prefer using uTorrent for the reasons above.
As we explore the differences and similarities, you will be able to quickly determine which of these options is suitable for your usage needs, as well as some crucial points to consider when using both of these torrents.
For example, there are some things to consider concerning using them, including legalities and how to safely and privately use them without worrying about laws and proper usage in certain areas.
About BitTorrent
BitTorrent is used for peer-to-peer files and serves as a protocol for data sharing and districting via the internet, so this is a preferred method for sharing large audio files such as songs and video clips.
These files and sharing are widespread on the internet and make up a considerable portion of the overall activity.
To use a BitTorrent, a person needs to use a BitTorrent client such as uTorrent. This BitTorrent client uses the BitTorrent protocol to send or receive files. In many instances, this protocol is banned by ISPs, requiring an alternative such as VPNs.
BitTorrent has the edge for business users because of the increased level of security and the fact they don’t support third-party ads.
BitTorrent is also the best choice for Mac OS X users because it can download multiple files simultaneously, whereas uTorrent can only download one at a time. When using an Android device, this difference isn’t as pronounced.
Overall, most businesses will need this torrent for multiple uploads and transferring large files with ease. In contrast, uTorrent isn’t a reliable option for these tasks.
Now, BitTorrent, the company, was founded in 2004 and was later named Rainberry, Inc. until 2018, when cryptocurrency startup TRON acquired it.
Since version 6.0, the BitTorrent client is basically a rebranded version of uTorrent and, as a result, is no longer open source. You can think of that what you will, but that’s the reality and some users have shied away from both clients for that reason.
READ ALSO: The 6 Safest Torrenting Clients (Read Before Downloading)
About uTorrent
uTorrent is an adware torrenting client owned by BitTorrent (TRON), as previously mentioned. This adware has over 150 million users worldwide and is the most widely used across the world.
uTorrent was created in September 2005 by Ludwig Strigeus, and BitTorrent then purchased it in December 2006.
The uTorrent client is available in 67 languages and has cornered over 68% of the market.
Since the sale of uTorrent, it has changed in many ways and has been updated to match the growing needs of today’s market. However, it is worth knowing some of the risks, in addition to the benefits, before considering using it for your personal needs.
Compatibility
As far as compatibility is concerned, uTorrent works with Android, macOS, and Microsoft Windows. If used online, it can also be compatible with Linux OS.
These options make it the ideal choice for people who use it for their cell phones or personal computers. The products offered by the uTorrent include the following:
- Ad-Free
- Pro
- Pro + VPN
- Web
- Basic
In contrast to BitTorrent, uTorrent runs slightly slower and better for more minor needs. However, one area of concern is that since it has more ads, uTorrent may increase malware risk instead of the beefier BitTorrent.
It also offers the same products as uTorrent but under a rebranded version. They two have the same plans and prices.
Similarities: Bittorrent Vs. uTorrent
When it comes to similarities, there are several when comparing BitTorrent and uTorrent. One of the first users will notice the user interface.
The interface is nearly identical other than the color scheme. This factor is because the software is almost identical, using the same code.
Some of the other similar features include the following.
- Unlimited downloads
- Settings
- Free version
- Paid version
- They also both show news feed RSS information
There are a wide variety of similarities between both options. However, the fundamental differences come in the form of capability and safety.
READ NEXT: What is The Best VPN Location for Torrenting? (A Quick Guide)
Differences: Bittorrent Vs. uTorrent
- uTorrent was founded in 2005, BitTorrent created in 2001
- BitTorrent is adware and owns uTorrent
- BitTorrent can offer a broader approach because it’s the parent company, and uTorrent can handle a smaller practice
- BitTorrent requires 3MB of space, whereas uTorrent only needs 1MB
- BitTorrent is fully translated in 17 languages worldwide, and uTorrent 67
There are a few fundamental differences to be aware of from the beginning to outline what they are and why one is better or more appropriate for particular usage.
Keep in mind that there are also a few minor differences that can make or break the case for one or the other. Consider these facts about BitTorrent and how it makes its case for being the more comprehensive choice between the two.
As mentioned, the uTorrent uses less space and is much lighter on the operating system used. There are, however, some other key differences to consider between the two.
BitTorrent is slightly less compatible than uTorrent, which could account for some of its popularity because it doesn’t use Linux.
Some would be put off by uTorrent because of the volume of both alpha and beta updates that are constantly released. In contrast, BitTorrent doesn’t have the volume of updates and only releases a stable version.
Some people wonder about speed, but it depends on connection speed and the number of users on file. It’s not just about which torrent you use. However, it’s worth noting that using a VPN will significantly speed up the process.
To be precise, however, there’s evidence to suggest BitTorrent is slightly faster than uTorrent due to its coding and other factors.
Some VPNs go hand in hand with torrenting applications. They use a wide range of security features, and some might be located in countries like Panama, which is ideal for protecting privacy.
Some other benefits of using a VPN like these are double encryption in AES-256 and IKEv2 and OpenVPN and Wireguard.
Plus, they also offer strict no-log policies, another ideal layer of privacy for those who want to protect their identity and prevent monitoring issues and concerns.
RELATED: The 12 Best VPN For Torrenting (Great Privacy & Blazing Speeds)
Prices
Both uTorrent and BitTorrent have the same prices. Above BitTorrent, below uTorrent
As both clients have the same owner – TRON through its subsidiary Rainberry, Inc., the pricing model is the same and contains four plans that range from free one, that doesn’t include any extras, to $69.95 per year and includes an excellent VPN – CyberGhost.
If you don’t like seeing ads, you can pay $4.95 per year or simply use an adblocker. For $19.95 per year, you get malware and virus protection, more insight into torrents (file size, resolution, seeds and leeches), and access to customer support.
And then, there’s the top plan that costs $69.95 per year. For that, you get all the features of the Pro plan plus a VPN. A good VPN – CyberGhost that you can use not only for torrenting but also streaming, bypassing geo-restrictions, and general privacy and security.
You can read more about CyberGhost in our full review. The TL;DR is that it’s a capable and popular VPN that obviously supports P2P and torrenting and has many other features that you’d expect from a good VPN and then some (kill switch, automatic WiFi protection, NoSpy Servers, integrated firewall, 256 AES protection).
Is it better off getting the torrenting client and VPN separate or as a bundle? I’d still say to get them separate as CyberGhost offers cheap two and three-year plans, and you get a 45-day money-back guarantee.
RELATED: The Pros & Cons of Torrenting Over Tor (A Quick Guide)
If you want to download torrents on the go, from your Android phone or tablet, you can download BitTorrent or uTorrent for free or pay $2.99 and get an ad-free experience, battery saving features, auto-shutdown, and premium customer support on top of free features that include WiFi-only mode, and remote feature.
Controversies
Only one of the two torrenting clients was marred by controversies that somewhat hurt its reputation and knocked it down a notch. And that was uTorrent.
The company decided on two occasions to include add-ons in their installation packages. In the first instance, in 2010, a known adware toolbar called Conduit Engine was installed, arguably without user consent, that changed the users’ homepage and default search engine.
In the second instance, in 2015, uTorrent decided to bundle a crypto-miner called Epic Scale. This didn’t go down lightly with users and many opted to never use uTorrent again.
Both torrenting clients come bundled with Opera browser and Yahoo search as optional add-ons that you can skip when installing the clients.
Things to Consider
The primary concern when using either of these options is legality. The first thing to know is that torrent use isn’t legal everywhere, and some users may unknowingly break the law due to using these tools or copyright infringement.
In rare cases, the government will use surveillance practices to keep track of who uses what on the internet and some people who violate copyright or usage laws, which can be punishable with heavy fines. This area is where using a VPN can come in handy.
A VPN will enhance your privacy to prevent you from being monitored. The VPN is also great for other browsing activities because it boosts speeds and increases the user experience. Be sure to use a top-rated VPN that is proven to be effective and has high user reviews.
Some VPNs are designed with specific torrenting applications in mind. They use a wide range of security features, and some are located in countries like Panama (NordVPN), an ideal location for protecting privacy.
Conclusion
There are a few things to know when concluding the differences and benefits between BitTorrent and uTorrent. First, there is a difference in usage.
If you’re a single user that wants to download movies and other P2P files either on your cell phone or on your computer, you’ll want to use the uTorrent.
The current can be fast if used with a VPN, which is highly recommended because you don’t want exposure to malware or risk being monitored by the government or even hackers online.
There are also many other benefits to consider, including lighter requirements for use and space and a more flexible variation of uses. When it comes to BitTorrent, it is more suited for business use because it is more secure, and it has safe advertisements that a third party does not run.
Although it doesn’t support as many languages, it is still a fast, robust choice for a wide variety of services.
All in all, they are both very similar, but with the range of differences, it is easy to choose which option will work for your particular needs after we have broken down the benefits and differences of each option.
If you want to see what other torrenting clients are out there, read our article about the safest torrenting clients.
Recommended VPN for Torrenting
As I already mentioned, using a good VPN is the best way to hide your IP address while downloading or seeding a torrent.
The main safety concern with torrents is that anyone in a swarm (peers and seeds) can see your IP address and therefore can find out, more or less accurately, your real location.
By using a VPN, you’re masking your IP and getting a new one that’s provided by your VPN. That will keep you anonymous and safe, at least while you’re torrenting. A VPN won’t make you completely anonymous, though.
ExpressVPN
- Almost 3,000+ servers in 94 countries
- Unlimited bandwidth
- For Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer…
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- For up to 5 devices
- Works in China and the UAE
- 24/7 live chat
ExpressVPN is one of the best, if not the best VPN right now. This is the best torrenting VPN that also comes with everything else you’d expect from a VPN.
It has many security measures, to keep you secure while torrenting. It not only supports torrenting on all servers, but it also has WebRTC leak prevention, private DNS servers, and Perfect Forward Secrecy, which utilizes a new key every time you connect and every 60 minutes after that.
Then there’s the split tunneling function that’s especially significant since it allows users to secure only their torrent client. The VPN does not affect any other online activity, such as web browsing or online gaming.
Your VPN connection can still drop sometimes, but an integrated kill switch will prevent your traffic and your IP address from being exposed.
ExpressVPN has a strict no-logs policy and thus holds no traffic archives. Plus, it’s based in the British Virgin Islands, a territory that has no data retention requirements.
Many P2P applications, including uTorrent, BitTorrent, Transmission, qBittorrent, Deluge, and others, are compatible with ExpressVPN. You’ll be able to view and share P2P/torrent files safely all around the world, thanks to ExpressVPN’s over 3,000 servers in 94 countries.
If you use various devices, you’ll be happy to know that ExpressVPN includes clients for:
- Android,
- iOS,
- Windows,
- Mac,
- Linux,
- Browsers,
- Smart TV systems
All of the applications are simple to use, allowing you to instantly connect to the best available server or choose from a list of international servers.
Its customer service is always available to assist you; if you have any concerns or issues, you can always contact customer service using the live chat feature, which is available 24/7.
