NZBGet for Android: A Lightweight Usenet Android NZB Downloader and Setup Guide

Finding a reliable Android NZB downloader can be difficult. Some projects are no longer supported, while others don’t provide the features people need. NZBGet offers a practical option for Android users who want a lightweight Usenet client that works on phones, tablets, and Android TV boxes.

Note: The project at nzbget.net has not been updated for years. For maintained builds, documentation, and installation guides, use NZBGet.com.

What Is an Android NZB Downloader?

An Android NZB downloader is an application that connects to Usenet servers and retrieves articles using NZB files. An NZB works like a set of instructions, pointing the downloader to the correct articles across thousands of newsgroups.

Running NZBGet on Android provides:

• A lightweight background process (daemon) that manages downloads.
• A browser-based interface that can be accessed on the device or across the local network.
• SSL support for secure connections.

Why NZBGet Works Well on Android

• Lightweight: Written in C++, NZBGet uses fewer system resources than many other clients.
• Maintained Builds: The Android installer is supported through NZBGet.com.
• Browser Control: Downloads are managed through http://localhost:6789 or via another device on the network.
• Category Management: Users can assign categories and set different storage paths.
• Background Operation: The daemon continues to run after the app itself is closed.

How to Install NZBGet on Android

All steps should be done directly on the Android device:

1. Download the installer app (APK) from the NZBGet Android GitHub releases page.
   • The installer sets up the NZBGet background process. While the installer itself is updated infrequently, it always pulls the latest NZBGet build.
   • Requires Android 5 or later.
2. Install the APK.
   • Enable the option to allow apps from unknown sources if prompted.
3. Launch the NZBGet app.
   • Tap install Daemon and select the version.
   • The installer downloads and installs the background process.
   • A message confirms: “NZBGet daemon has been successfully installed.”

Using NZBGet on Android

• Open the app and tap Start Daemon.
• Choose Show Web-Interface to open the browser-based control panel:
  http://localhost:6789
• To connect from another device on the same network, use:
  http://[IP-of-Android-device]:6789
• Once the daemon is running, the NZBGet app can be closed. Downloads continue in the background.

Accessing Downloaded Files

On Android, apps can only write to their own folders on external storage, typically:
/storage/XXXX-XXXX/Android/data/net.nzbget.nzbget

To manage downloads more easily:

• Use the Choose Paths option in the installer.
• Set a default location for all downloads, or separate paths for different categories.

Note: Only completed downloads are moved. Do not remove or change the DestDir setting in the web interface.

Post-Processing Scripts on Android

Most post-processing scripts are written in Python, which is not available on Android.

• Bash scripts may work if BusyBox is installed from the Play Store.
• The ScriptDir setting must point to a system partition, not SD card storage.
• Even with adjustments, many scripts will be limited by Android OS restrictions.

Using NZBGet on Android TV and Tablets

NZBGet runs on Android 5 or later and works across:

• Smartphones
• Tablets
• Android TV boxes and streaming devices

Since management happens through the web interface, the experience is consistent across all Android platforms.

How NZBGet Compares to Other Usenet Android Apps

Other Usenet Android apps exist, including those available in the Play Store. Many are either outdated, limited, or closed-source.

NZBGet differs in that it is:

• Open source and community-maintained
• Actively supported at NZBGet.com
• Efficient in memory usage, which suits mobile and embedded devices

Common Questions About Usenet on Android

What is the best Android NZB downloader?

There are a few Android apps that can handle Usenet downloads, but many are either outdated or not actively maintained. NZBGet is reliable because it continues to receive updates, supports SSL connections, and runs efficiently on a wide range of Android devices. 

Is NZBGet for Android still supported?

Yes. The Android builds available through NZBGet.com are maintained and linked to the current NZBGet releases. By contrast, nzbget.net and its GitHub repository have not been updated for years. Using the maintained version helps avoid compatibility issues and makes it easier to report problems if they occur.

Can I submit bug reports or feature requests for Android?

Yes. The NZBGet project accepts issue reports for the Android builds through the NZBGet GitHub page. Submitting feedback there helps the developers track problems, consider feature improvements, and share solutions with other users.

Where are NZBGet downloads stored on Android?

By default, Android restricts apps to their own folders on external storage, so NZBGet stores files in a directory like:

/storage/XXXX-XXXX/Android/data/net.nzbget.nzbget

To simplify file access, the installer app includes a Choose Paths option. This lets you select a different location for completed downloads, including category-specific folders if you want to separate your downloads.

Does NZBGet work with Sonarr or Radarr on Android?

Yes. NZBGet can integrate with automation tools such as Sonarr, Radarr, Lidarr, and others. These tools can connect to the NZBGet web interface on Android the same way they do on desktop systems. Proper configuration of host, port, and API key settings allows full automation, even on Android-based devices.

Can I run NZBGet on Android TV?

Yes. NZBGet works on Android TV boxes and devices that meet the minimum system requirements. Once installed, the web interface can be accessed from the TV itself or from another device on the same network. This makes it possible to run a download client directly on your Android setup.

Does NZBGet require root access on Android?

No. NZBGet does not require root privileges. The app can be installed and used on standard Android devices without modifying the operating system. This makes it straightforward for most users to set up and use.

Does NZBGet support SSL on Android?

Yes. Just like the desktop versions, the Android build supports SSL. This allows you to connect securely to Usenet servers, which helps keep your activity private and prevents connection tampering.

Can NZBGet run in the background if the app is closed?

Yes. Once the daemon process has been started, it continues to run in the background even if the main NZBGet app is closed. Downloads will continue until they are finished, and the web interface can still be accessed from the device or another computer on the same network.

Is Python required for post-processing on Android?

Most post-processing scripts are written in Python, but Python is not available on Android. Because of this, many scripts will not function. Some Bash scripts may work if BusyBox is installed, but post-processing support on Android is limited compared to desktop systems.

NZBGet and Android Usenet Access

For anyone running a Usenet Android downloader, it’s important to use a version that is maintained. The nzbget.net project has been abandoned, while current builds are available at NZBGet.com. Using the maintained version reduces errors and provides the most up-to-date features.