Aerial alternatives: 5 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Aerial: mac only, and latest version needs macOS 26 or later. We ranked 5 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Aerial, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Fliqlo currently ranks first.
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Show all 5 alternativesThe best Aerial alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Aerial alternative for most people
FliqloA simpler free screensaver that shows just a big flip clock, and also runs on Windows.
Best Aerial alternative for a free option
BrooklynAnother free open-source Mac screensaver, with animated logo designs instead of video.
Best Aerial alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
BackdropMac live wallpaper app with thousands of community scenes and Lock Screen support, if you want more variety than aerials.
Best Aerial alternative for open source
Lively WallpaperFree Windows app for video wallpapers and screensavers, for those leaving the Mac.
Best Aerial alternative for Mac
FliqloA simpler free screensaver that shows just a big flip clock, and also runs on Windows.
Best Aerial alternative for Windows
Wallpaper EngineThe pick on Windows for animated video scenes as a wallpaper or screensaver.
Aerial alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Aerial?
Fliqlo ranks first right now. A simpler free screensaver that shows just a big flip clock, and also runs on Windows. Brooklyn and Backdrop follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Aerial?
Yes. Fliqlo (free plan + paid), Brooklyn (open source), Backdrop (free plan + paid) and Lively Wallpaper (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Aerial?
Yes: Brooklyn and Lively Wallpaper.
Why do people switch from Aerial?
The complaints we hear most: mac only; latest version needs macOS 26 or later; high-quality video downloads use a lot of disk space.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Aerial, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.