ForkLift for Mac review
ForkLift is an FTP client for Mac. While many FTP programs look like they were designed by people who are only concerned with functionality and not form, ForkLift presents a more familiar, accessible design. Someone who is not comfortable with advanced computer operations such as FTP transfers should still have no problem sending or receiving files with this program.
Pros
Modern design: Many FTP programs look as technical and complicated now as they did 10 years ago. ForkLift looks much more modern by contrast. It has a navigation structure built into the program that mirrors the Finder in OS X so that it is more or less familiar and comfortable to search through for files.
Easy connection: A single button on the top toolbar opens a connection setup box, where everything is clearly labeled and straightforward. Confusion is sometimes an issue with FTP programs, especially when there are many more text boxes and menu options that are strictly necessary for a basic file transfer. ForkLift keeps it to the essentials, which is great for first-time attempts at file transfer.
Smooth, quick operations: ForkLift completed a smooth and quick file transfer in the background without slowing other operations.
Cons
Lack of help: Despite its relative ease of use, FTP programs still have huge potential to be complicated or confusing. There is no help feature to speak of in this app, which is an unfortunate omission.
Bottom Line
ForkLift is a great FTP app for Mac. If you need to a do a lot of file transfers, especially if you're inexperienced in the area, this program should make learning the ropes and transferring files easy for you. Ultimately, it is quick and painless, which is what you want from this type of program.
Editors' note: This is a review of the trial version of ForkLift for Mac 2.6.2.
