Is Easy Digital Downloads Free?

Is Easy Digital Downloads Free? Here's What You Need to Know

If you're running a WordPress site and want to sell digital products like eBooks, PDFs, software, or music. Easy Digital Downloads (EDD) is one of the most popular plugins available. But is it really free?

Let’s break down what’s included in the free version, what requires payment, and what alternatives exist (including how Formswrite.com can help you collect digital product data for free).

What Is Easy Digital Downloads?

Easy Digital Downloads is a WordPress plugin designed specifically for selling digital goods. It comes with built-in functionality for:

1. Uploading and managing digital products

2. Accepting payments (via Stripe, PayPal, etc.)

3. Managing customers and orders

4. Sending product download links

Is Easy Digital Downloads Free?

Yes – with limitations. EDD offers a free core plugin that includes the basics:

1. Add unlimited digital products

2. Accept simple payments

3. Create download links

4. Track customer purchase history

However, many essential features require paid extensions , such as:

1. Email marketing integrations

2. File access control and download limits

3. Advanced payment gateways

4. Licensing, subscriptions, and discount codes

5. Frontend product submissions

The free version is good for testing or very simple stores. For serious digital sellers, costs can add up quickly.

Free Alternatives (for Simpler Needs)

If you're not ready to sell but need to collect digital files , distribute free downloads, or gather signups for digital content. Formswrite.com is a great alternative.

How to Use Formswrite to Distribute Digital Files

1. Go to Formswrite.com It’s a free, browser-based form builder. No WordPress required.

2. Create a Form Ask for email addresses or other info before granting access to the file.

3. Add a Confirmation Message or Redirect Once someone submits the form, you can:

1. Display a link to download the file

2. Redirect them to a hosted download page

4. Track Submissions All responses are stored securely in your dashboard. Great for building email lists or vetting who downloads your content.

FAQs

Can I use EDD without a developer? Yes, but setup can be complex for non-technical users—especially if you need paid add-ons.

Is Formswrite an eCommerce platform? No. It’s for creating forms—but great for distributing free files, capturing leads, and collecting data tied to digital content.

Which one should I use? Use EDD if you're running a digital store. Use Formswrite if you need a free, flexible way to collect or distribute files without selling.