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LocalSend vs SendAnywhere

Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.

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LocalSend
LocalSendFast, secure file sharing across your local network
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SendAnywhere
SendAnywhereShare any file instantly across all your devices for free
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Overview
Description

LocalSend lets you instantly transfer files and folders between devices on the same Wi‑Fi or LAN without internet. It works on Windows, macOS, and Linux, offering a simple, ad‑free experience for home users and small teams. The open‑source desktop app runs in the background, detects nearby devices, and encrypts transfers end‑to‑end. No accounts or cloud storage are required, keeping your data private and under your control.

SendAnywhere lets you transfer files of any size and type without the need for accounts or login. It works via a simple 6‑digit key, QR code, or direct link, making sharing quick and secure. The service offers cross‑platform support, including web, desktop, and mobile apps, and uses end‑to‑end encryption for privacy. Free transfers are unlimited, with optional paid plans for added features like password protection and longer link expiration.

Pricing
Free
Freemium
Category
Team File Sharing
Large File Transfer
Best for
Home users and small teams
Individuals and small teams
Specifications
deployment
Desktop App
—
open source
Yes
No
github stars
85,879
—
api available
No
Yes
support options
Email, GitHub Issues
Email, Knowledge Base
primary language
Dart
—
Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Free and open‑source with no hidden fees
  • Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • No internet required; fully local transfers
  • Strong end‑to‑end encryption for security
  • Unlimited file size for free users
  • Works without creating an account
  • Strong encryption protects data
  • Available on all major platforms
Cons
  • Limited to devices on the same local network
  • No built‑in cloud sync or remote access
  • Requires manual installation on each device
  • Free version lacks link password protection
  • No built‑in cloud storage or file history
  • Ads appear in the web interface for free users
Community & Metrics
Upvotes
0
0
User rating
Not enough data
Not enough data

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4shared
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LocalSend
LocalSend

Fast, secure file sharing across your local network

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The Verdict

AI-generated from listing data

SendAnywhere offers unlimited, internet‑based transfers with optional password protection for a freemium price, while LocalSend provides completely offline, open‑source transfers limited to the same LAN.

Key differences

  • •Transfer scope: SendAnywhere works over the internet; LocalSend only works on the local network.
  • •Pricing model: SendAnywhere is freemium with ads and optional paid features; LocalSend is fully free and open‑source.
  • •File size limits: SendAnywhere allows any size for free users; LocalSend has no stated limit but is constrained by local network bandwidth.
  • •Security features: SendAnywhere offers optional password‑protected links; LocalSend provides AES‑256 encryption but no link sharing.
  • •Platform support: SendAnywhere includes mobile apps (iOS, Android); LocalSend is desktop‑only (Windows, macOS, Linux).
DimensionWinner

Pricing & value

LocalSend is completely free and open‑source; SendAnywhere uses a freemium model with ads and limited free features.

LocalSend

Ease of use / learning curve

SendAnywhere works via web, QR code, and apps without installing on each device; LocalSend requires manual install on every machine.

SendAnywhere

Features & depth

SendAnywhere supports internet links, QR codes, password protection, and cross‑platform mobile apps; LocalSend is limited to LAN transfers.

SendAnywhere

Integrations & ecosystem

SendAnywhere offers a web API and integrates via browsers; LocalSend has no API.

SendAnywhere

Collaboration

SendAnywhere allows sharing via secure links that can be sent to remote users; LocalSend only shares with devices on the same network.

SendAnywhere

Scalability

SendAnywhere can transfer terabytes over the internet to any device; LocalSend scales only to the size of the local network.

SendAnywhere

Security & privacy

Both provide end‑to‑end encryption; SendAnywhere adds optional password protection, LocalSend uses AES‑256 but no link passwords.

Tie

Choose LocalSend if…

Teams that require fully offline, LAN‑only sharing and prefer open‑source, no‑cost software.

Choose SendAnywhere if…

Users needing remote, cross‑device transfers without installing software on every machine.

Common questions

Can I send files to someone who is not on my local network?

Yes with SendAnywhere (internet link); No with LocalSend, which only works on the same LAN.

Is there any cost to use either tool?

SendAnywhere is freemium (ads, optional paid features); LocalSend is completely free and open‑source.

Do both tools support mobile devices?

SendAnywhere provides iOS and Android apps; LocalSend is desktop‑only (Windows, macOS, Linux).