Best File Transfer Apps for Android
15 carefully analyzed file transfer apps with specific pros, cons, and use cases.
In today's digital world, file transfer apps have become essential tools for sharing everything from photos and documents to large video files. With so many options available, choosing the right Send Anywhere (File Transfer) or Files by Google can be challenging. These apps offer varying speeds, security features, and platform compatibility, making some better suited for specific use cases than others.
The State of File Transfer Apps in September 2025
The file transfer landscape has evolved significantly, with apps like Send Anywhere (File Transfer) leading in security and cross-platform support, while Files by Google dominates in integration with Android ecosystems. Privacy-focused solutions like LocalSend have gained traction among security-conscious users, while traditional favorites like SHAREit and Xender continue to offer high-speed transfers for mainstream users.
Our Top Pick: Send Anywhere (File Transfer)
Send Anywhere (File Transfer) stands out as our top choice due to its exceptional 256-bit encryption, Wi-Fi Direct capabilities that work without internet, and seamless cross-platform support. The app's 6-digit key system provides both security and simplicity, making it ideal for both casual users and professionals who need to transfer sensitive files. Unlike SHAREit or Xender, it maintains file integrity without altering original formats.
How the Top Apps Compare
The top five apps offer distinct advantages: Send Anywhere (File Transfer) excels in security and platform independence, while Files by Google provides deep Android integration and storage management. LocalSend offers complete offline operation and open-source transparency, WeTransfer specializes in large file transfers with metadata preservation, and SHAREit delivers maximum transfer speeds for Android-to-Android sharing.
Which App is Right for You?
For security-conscious professionals, Send Anywhere (File Transfer) or LocalSend are ideal choices. Android users seeking integrated file management should choose Files by Google. Those needing to transfer large creative files should consider WeTransfer, while users switching from Android to iOS specifically need Move to iOS.
Pro Tips for File Transfer Apps
Always enable Wi-Fi Direct on apps like Send Anywhere (File Transfer) for faster, data-free transfers. Use the resume feature in ShareMe for interrupted large file transfers. For maximum security, choose apps like LocalSend that offer end-to-end encryption and don't require internet connectivity.
The best file transfer app depends on your specific needs, but Send Anywhere (File Transfer) offers the most balanced combination of security, speed, and cross-platform compatibility. For Android ecosystem integration, Files by Google remains unbeatable, while privacy advocates will appreciate LocalSend's open-source approach.
Quick Summary
- Send Anywhere (File Transfer) leads with military-grade encryption and cross-platform support
- Files by Google excels in Android integration and storage management features
- Security-focused users should consider LocalSend for its open-source, offline-first approach
The 15 Best file transfer Apps
Send Anywhere (File Transfer)
Send Anywhere: Easy, quick, and unlimited file sharing โถ Features โข Transfer any file type without...
Pros:
- 256-bit AES encryption ensures military-grade security for all transfers
- Wi-Fi Direct support enables transfers without internet or mobile data usage
- 6-digit key system provides both security and user-friendly access control
Cons:
- APK file transfers may face copyright restrictions and platform compatibility issues
- Video files may not automatically appear in gallery without manual file management
- Requires multiple storage permissions that some users may find intrusive
The best overall choice for users who prioritize security, cross-platform compatibility, and reliable large file transfers.
Files by Google
โจ Free up space on your device with cleaning recommendations ๐ Find files faster with search and si...
Pros:
- Integrated storage cleaner with smart recommendations for space optimization
- Quick Share feature offers 480Mbps speeds with end-to-end encryption
- Non-device lock provides additional security layer for sensitive files
Cons:
- Primarily Android-focused with limited iOS and desktop functionality
- 20MB storage usage may concern users with very limited device space
- Google ecosystem dependency may not suit privacy-focused users
The perfect choice for Android users who want comprehensive file management alongside transfer capabilities.
LocalSend: Transfer Files
LocalSend is a secure, offline-first file transfer solution, purpose-built for professionals, teams,...
Pros:
- Complete offline operation without internet or cloud dependency
- End-to-end TLS encryption ensures military-grade security
- Open-source transparency allows security auditing and customization
Cons:
- Limited to local network transfers without internet fallback
- Smaller user base reduces discovery and connection options
- Fewer additional features compared to mainstream commercial apps
The ultimate choice for security-critical environments, enterprises, and privacy-focused individuals.
WeTransfer : File Transfer
WeTransfer is a seamless way to send large files, right from your phone or tablet. Share photos and ...
Pros:
- Metadata preservation maintains camera details and creation information
- No file size limitations for professional-grade media transfers
- Original quality maintenance for videos and high-resolution photos
Cons:
- Internet requirement makes it unsuitable for offline transfers
- Primarily link-based sharing rather than direct device-to-device transfer
- Limited file management capabilities compared to comprehensive apps
The best choice for photographers, videographers, and creatives who need quality preservation and large file support.
SHAREit: Transfer, Share Files
Itโs time to Share it! Share files, apps, games, videos, photos, music, recordings, documents and m...
Pros:
- 42MB/s transfer speed makes it 200x faster than Bluetooth transfers
- Built-in media player and downloader eliminates need for additional apps
- Phone clone feature simplifies device migration with comprehensive data transfer
Cons:
- Heavy focus on additional features may complicate simple file transfers
- Large app size due to bundled media and gaming features
- Privacy concerns due to extensive data collection for additional services
Ideal for users who want maximum transfer speeds and additional media features beyond basic file sharing.
ShareMe: File sharing
๐Your privacy and security are of the utmost importance to us. ๐ShareMe is a safe and easy-to-use...
Pros:
- Transfer resume capability prevents restarting interrupted file transfers
- Clean, intuitive interface categorized by file type for easy navigation
- No internet requirement makes it reliable in connectivity-challenged environments
Cons:
- Primarily optimized for Xiaomi ecosystem with limited cross-platform support
- Lacks advanced security features like end-to-end encryption
- Fewer additional features compared to competitors like SHAREit
Best for Xiaomi users and those who value simplicity and reliability over feature richness.
Xender - Share Music Transfer
Xender - best sharing app fulfilling all your transfer needs โ Share Music, Share Video, Share Phot...
Pros:
- Extensive cross-platform support including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
- Social media downloader for content from Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok
- Video to MP3 conversion integrated within the transfer workflow
Cons:
- Interface clutter due to multiple feature integrations
- Privacy policy concerns regarding data usage for additional services
- Occasional connectivity issues reported across different platform combinations
Best for users who frequently transfer between mobile devices and computers with diverse file types.
EasyShare
ใAuxiliary functionใ We will use wireless LAN users to help complete the migration of data from the ...
Pros:
- Completely ad-free experience throughout the application
- 40Mbps transfer speeds competitive with leading alternatives
- vivo official app ensuring reliability and ongoing support
Cons:
- vivo ecosystem optimization limits performance on other devices
- Fewer advanced features compared to more established competitors
- Limited user base outside of vivo device owners
Best for vivo device users who want a simple, ad-free transfer experience from a trusted manufacturer.
Zapya - File Transfer, Share
When you use Zapya, you can rapidly share files of ANY size and of ANY format to ALL platform no mat...
Pros:
- USB drive support for expanded storage and transfer options
- Four connection methods including QR, shake, radar, and group
- APK and AAB format support for comprehensive app sharing
Cons:
- Complex interface with multiple transfer methods may confuse users
- Extensive permission requirements for full functionality
- Occasional connectivity issues across different device combinations
Best for users who need multiple transfer methods and external storage support beyond basic file sharing.
SHAREit Lite - Fast File Share
SHAREit Lite is fast, conserves data and comes in a small App size! Send and receive files for free....
Pros:
- 42MB/s transfer speed makes it 200x faster than Bluetooth transfers
- Built-in media player and downloader eliminates need for additional apps
- Phone clone feature simplifies device migration with comprehensive data transfer
Cons:
- Heavy focus on additional features may complicate simple file transfers
- Large app size due to bundled media and gaming features
- Privacy concerns due to extensive data collection for additional services
Ideal for users who want maximum transfer speeds and additional media features beyond basic file sharing.
Samsung Smart Switch Mobile
โฃ Smart Switch gives you the freedom to move your contacts, music, photos, calendar, text messages, ...
Pros:
- Comprehensive data migration including app data and home screen layouts
- Wired transfer option for iOS devices ensures reliable large data moves
- iCloud integration simplifies switching from Apple ecosystem
Cons:
- Primarily designed for Samsung-to-Samsung transfers with limited other use
- Requires 500MB free space on both devices, limiting older device compatibility
- Complex permission requirements may concern privacy-conscious users
Essential for Samsung users switching devices, but less useful for general file sharing needs.
Dropbox: Secure Cloud Storage
Dropbox allows you to backup your most essential files to the cloud, where you may access them at an...
Pros:
- Automatic camera roll upload for continuous photo backup
- Document scanning with PDF conversion capabilities
- Version history and file recovery for accidental deletions
Cons:
- 2GB free storage limit requires subscription for serious use
- Internet-dependent design unsuitable for offline transfers
- Primarily cloud-focused rather than direct device-to-device transfer
Ideal for users who prioritize cloud storage and synchronization over direct device transfers.
Move to iOS
Everything about iOS is designed to be easy. That includes switching to it. With just a few steps, y...
Pros:
- WhatsApp content transfer including messages and media
- Secure private Wi-Fi network creation for encrypted transfers
- Automatic content organization into appropriate iOS apps
Cons:
- Single-purpose design only useful for Android-to-iOS migration
- Requires both devices to be connected to power during transfer
- Limited to content transfer without ongoing file sharing capability
Essential for Android users switching to iOS, but useless for any other file transfer needs.
Audiomack: Music Downloader
Stream and download the best new trending music (full tracks offline data-free) and listen to your l...
Pros:
- Specialized audio format support including MP3, WAV, M4A, and AAC
- Music discovery platform with trending tracks and artist followings
- Offline listening capability for downloaded music files
Cons:
- Limited to audio file transfers and music-related content
- Subscription required for ad-free experience and premium features
- Music-focused design makes it unsuitable for general file transfers
Excellent for music sharing and discovery, but not a general-purpose file transfer solution.
File Sharing - InShare
๐ฎ๐ณ InShare is India's most reliable data transfer & file sharing app. โ๏ธ InShare is a safe and ult...
Pros:
- 40Mb/s transfer speed with 5GHz Fast Mode for enhanced performance
- Cross-platform support including rare systems like KaiOS and Jio Phone
- Smart replication feature simplifies phone-to-phone data migration
Cons:
- Regional focus may limit global feature support and optimization
- Extensive permission requirements for comprehensive device access
- Privacy concerns due to data collection for transfer optimization
Ideal for users in India and those needing support for less common mobile platforms.
Key Insights
๐ Overall Winner
Send Anywhere (File Transfer) - Our #1 pick for overall excellence
๐ Best Free Option
Send Anywhere (File Transfer)
๐ Best Premium Choice
Premium features via IAP
Pricing Analysis
Range from free to premium with various subscription options
Conclusion
The best file transfer app depends on your specific needs, but Send Anywhere (File Transfer) offers the most balanced combination of security, speed, and cross-platform compatibility. For Android ecosystem integration, Files by Google remains unbeatable, while privacy advocates will appreciate LocalSend's open-source approach.
Our Recommendations:
Choose based on our detailed analysis and your specific needs.
We continuously update rankings as apps evolve.