I suspect Java is at the root of LimeWire's suckiness, but it's also what allows it to run on so many platforms. I usually use LimeWire as my primary client, but play around with others such as phex or neo (a Mac OS-X kazaa client). If you want a Mac OS-X only solution that doesn't drag your whole system down to a near halt, then try acquisition. I downloaded my copy from xlife.org . As an added bonus, it's supported entirely by donations, so no banner ads or spy ware. It's not perfect, but what gnutella client is?