What are the best WeTransfer alternatives? 6 solutions compared

WeTransfer is a classic among user-friendly cloud-sharing services. Today, there is a wide range of alternatives available. We introduce some of them and highlight their pros and cons.

Overview of WeTransfer and its alternatives

The table below provides an overview of the strengths, weaknesses and special features of WeTransfer and its alternatives:

Information correct as of: November 2024

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Why is WeTransfer so popular?

WeTransfer had a key advantage over other existing solutions when it was first introduced: its simplicity. Using WeTransfer does not require registration. The service is entirely browser-based and works without installing local client software. To send a file, users simply select one or more files for upload and enter both their own email address and that of the recipient. A generated share link then allows for easy downloading.

For users without an account, the file size per upload is limited to 2 GB. With a paid Pro subscription, this limit increases to 200 GB, while the Premium package removes size restrictions altogether. WeTransfer is particularly popular among photographers, as it provides a straightforward way to transfer photo archives.

WeTransfer alternatives compared

The WeTransfer alternatives presented below all enable file sharing with others. Most sharing services impose a maximum file size limit for transfers, though a higher limit may be available for registered or paying users. Some services also allow synchronisation of personal files across multiple devices.

HiDrive Share

The HiDrive Share WeTransfer alternative is a simple, fast and free way to share large files with others. Senders simply upload the files to the HiDrive Share website and receive a download link to pass to their recipients. Anyone with the link can download the files. It takes just a few minutes to share documents, photos, or videos with friends, acquaintances, or colleagues.

• Up to 2GB upload
• Easy to use
• No download limit

Uploads are limited to 2GB. However, the data volume can be divided across multiple files. The number of files is irrelevant and there’s also no limit to the number of people who can receive the download link. After 7 days, all data is automatically and irrevocably deleted. Further security measures, such as password protection, are not implemented.

Wikisend

Wikisend is a completely free alternative to WeTransfer. Using the service requires neither an installation of the cloud software nor registration. Wikisend is easy to use, much like WeTransfer.

• Upload up to 100 MB
• Downloads are password-protected
• No installation or registration required to upload/download

Unfortunately, the service has a couple of disadvantages. For example, individual file size limits for uploads are 100 MB which is significantly less than other alternatives or WeTransfer.

Send Anywhere

Send Anywhere is an interesting alternative to WeTransfer. In addition to download links, innovative direct transfers are available. The application generates a six-digit numerical code that uniquely identifies an uploaded file. If the recipient enters the numerical code, the download begins.

• Direct transfer via numerical code
• No registration required (direct transfer)
• Software available

Send Anywhere can be used from the browser, and no login is required (except for with direct transfers). Furthermore, cloud apps for Android, iOS, and desktop operating systems are available. These are handy if you want to send files from several devices. When using the free service, note that share links become invalid after 48 hours.

ZetaUploader

The WeTransfer alternative ZetaUploader is developed and distributed by a German company. The software serves as a file-sharing solution integrated into a company’s own infrastructure, runs on a Windows server, and is managed via a web interface. As usual, the sender uploads a file and enters the email addresses of the recipients. Each recipient receives an email with a link to download the file.

• Suitable for companies
• Server software self-hosted
• Cloud option available

The advantage of ZetaUploader is that the software can be operated from a company’s own infrastructure. This eliminates security and privacy concerns for businesses. And large files can be shared more efficiently across the company. The biggest drawback of ZetaUploader is its price. The provider charges 7,100€ (around £5,900) for a server license. The similar WeTransfer alternative costs 450€ (around £370) per month.

Terashare

Terashare is a free file sharing service that combines traditional cloud storage with peer-to-peer (P2P) functionality. It is based on the BitTorrent protocol. When a user selects a file larger than 10 GB for upload, the file remains on the sender’s device. The Terashare client starts sharing the file via the BitTorrent protocol. On the recipient’s device, the download takes place via the same path.

• Combination of cloud and P2P
• Requires software installation
• No upload limit

Terashare is an interesting technology with future potential. That’s because when data is shared via P2P functionality, a network effect comes into play: the more people have a file on their system, the faster its downloads will be in the future. Unlike WeTransfer and its alternatives, Terashare requires client software to be installed on the sender and recipient’s computers. In return, the service supports unlimited files, in principle.

Google Drive

Google Drive is more of a traditional cloud storage service rather than a true alternative to WeTransfer. Originally launched as a document storage solution for the Google ecosystem, it later introduced a synchronisation client. Uploaded files can be shared with others via a download link.

• Integrated into various Google services
• Synchronisation software available
• 15 GB of storage

A Google account is required to upload files. Users receive 15 GB of free storage, though it is shared with Gmail and other Google services.

Dropbox

Dropbox is the classic among file synchronisation tools. Google Drive and Dropbox are pioneers in widely used cloud storage. Initially focused on file synchronisation, Dropbox can now also serve as an alternative to WeTransfer. The sender needs an account and shares uploaded files via download links.

• Primarily cloud storage with synchronisation functionality
• Registration required
• More storage can be earned by inviting new users

Dropbox share links automatically expire after a seven-day storage period. The free package includes only 2 GB of storage. However, users can expand their storage up to 16 GB by referring new users. Paid packages are available for individuals and teams.