Is there a compelling reason to use this instead of FTP?
Gnome
The GNOME Project is a free and open source desktop and computing platform for open platforms like Linux that strives to be an easy and elegant way to use your computer. GNOME software is developed openly and ethically by both individual contributors and corporate partners, and is distributed under the GNU General Public License.
Main reason I use Magic Wormhole is due to the ease of transferring to people beyond your network. No hassle setting up FTP and everything that comes with it. Plug the file in, give the other person the code and you're already transferring.
I guess it has a nicer interface and you can limit the files that the other can download
Way easier for non-technical users.
Filester is a good alternative too but I strongly recommend you encrypt all files before share it on any platform. But is really good to know a new tool that serves to the same proposal.