File sharing tools compared
Pick AirDrop for nearby Apple devices and an internet-based tool for the rest.
Comparison table
We checked the official documentation of each service on 2026-10-24.
The table shows free use. Some services change these limits on paid plans.
| Tool | Account required | Same network required | Platforms | Expiry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirDrop | No | No (devices within about 10 m, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on) | iPhone, iPad, Mac | Not applicable (sent directly to the device) |
| Snapdrop | No | Yes | Web browser | Not applicable (sent directly between devices) |
| WeTransfer | Sender only | No | Web, macOS app, iOS app | Free plan: up to 3 days |
| Send Anywhere | No | No | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, web | 6-digit key: 10 minutes; link: 48 hours |
| Pinfast | Sender only | No | Web, macOS, Windows, iOS, Android | 3 or 24 hours (chosen at upload) |
How to choose
Apple devices near each other: AirDrop sends directly to the device. No account is needed.
Devices on the same network: Snapdrop works in a web browser. No account is needed.
Devices on different networks: WeTransfer, Send Anywhere and Pinfast send files over the internet. Check the expiry column before you choose.
A short code instead of a link: Send Anywhere uses a 6-digit key that works for 10 minutes. Pinfast uses your username and a 4-digit PIN. The file stays available for 3 or 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Which file sharing tools work without an account?
AirDrop, Snapdrop and Send Anywhere need no account. WeTransfer and Pinfast need an account only for the sender. The receiver does not need one.
Which tools work when the devices are on different networks?
WeTransfer, Send Anywhere and Pinfast send files over the internet. Snapdrop finds devices on the same network. AirDrop needs the devices within about 10 meters of each other to start a transfer.
How long do shared files stay available?
WeTransfer free plan: up to 3 days. Send Anywhere: a 6-digit key works for 10 minutes and a link for 48 hours. Pinfast: 3 or 24 hours, chosen at upload. Snapdrop sends files only between devices and never to a server.