Email Before Download vs WP-DownloadManager (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, Email Before Download has a higher user rating (4.3/5 from 44 reviews) and leads in active installations (6.0K+ vs 3.0K+). Both are free WordPress plugins. Email Before Download has accumulated 368K+ total downloads while WP-DownloadManager has 309K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Email Before Download | WP-DownloadManager | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.3/5 | ◄ | 4/5 |
| Total Reviews | 44 | ◄ | 37 |
| Active Installs | 6.0K+ | ◄ | 3.0K+ |
| Total Downloads | 368K+ | ◄ | 309K+ |
| Support Resolution | N/A | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 1 year ago | ► | 1 month ago |
| First Released | 2011 | 2007 | |
| Age | 15 years | 19 years | |
| WP Requires | false+ | 4.0+ | |
| PHP Requires | false+ | false+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 6.9.8 | 1.69.1 |
Rating Breakdown
Email Before Download
WP-DownloadManager
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, Email Before Download averaged approximately 15 daily downloads while WP-DownloadManager averaged 26.
Recent Reviews
Email Before Download Reviews
fatal error message
Unfortunately like some of the other recent reviews, we too are now getting ‘plugin could not be activated because it triggered a fatal error‘ message. Its a shame as it worked well when it was workin
Could not install
Getting Plugin could not be activated because it triggered a fatal error
Works just fine, and support excellent
I had a few problems setting up, but Support quickly answered my requests for help and got me up and running. Recommended for what it promises and what it does. Takes a little effort to get familiar w
WP-DownloadManager Reviews
WP Download Manager Review
The plugin is way too complex for an average user. The protection for download takes too many steps. I found not ever get the preview option only to display. I ask for a refund within the first 14
Great
This is what i was looking for. Works great with external file
Excellent
Très bon plugin / Very great plugin
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Email Before Download or WP-DownloadManager more popular?
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Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.