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Alternatives · Utilities

LocalSend alternatives

LocalSend compared with 4 alternatives: Syncthing, WeTransfer, Dropzone and Synergy.

LocalSend is free to use. 3 of the 4 alternatives are free or have a free plan. One more offers a free trial.

4 tools · Listings checked up to Oct 9, 2026 · Where the facts come from

At a glance

ToolPriceFree planRuns on
LocalSendThis toolFreeFreeWeb, macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android
SyncthingFreeFreemacOS, Windows, Linux
WeTransferFree plan · from $8/moYesWeb, macOS, iOS, Android
DropzoneFree plan · from $4.99/moYesmacOS
SynergyFree trial · from $15 one-timeTrial onlymacOS, Windows, Linux

How each one differs from LocalSend

  1. Syncthing

    Free, open source file sync directly between your own devices

    • Syncthing is free. LocalSend is free.
    • Only LocalSend lists a web app.
    • Only LocalSend lists Android and iOS apps.
    • LocalSend is end-to-end encrypted, according to its own site.
    • Syncthing also covers file sync.

    Suits: Syncing folders between your own computers without a cloud provider

  2. WeTransfer

    Send large files by email or link without recipient sign-up

    • WeTransfer starts at $8 per month, billed monthly. LocalSend is free.
    • Only LocalSend lists Windows and Linux apps.
    • LocalSend is open source and end-to-end encrypted, according to its own site.
    • WeTransfer also covers documents and menu bar app.

    Suits: Sending large files to clients who should not need an account

  3. Dropzone

    Drag-and-drop action grid and file shelf for the Mac menu bar

    • Dropzone starts at $4.99 / month or $19.99 / year (Mac App Store), or $35 one-time direct. LocalSend is free.
    • Only LocalSend lists a web app.
    • Only LocalSend lists Windows, Linux, Android and iOS apps.
    • Dropzone can be bought with a one-time purchase.
    • LocalSend is open source and end-to-end encrypted, according to its own site.

    Suits: Mac users who move, copy and upload files by drag and drop all day

  4. Synergy

    Share one keyboard and mouse across Windows, Mac and Linux PCs

    • Synergy starts at $15 one-time payment (Synergy 3 Lite, personal use). LocalSend is free.
    • LocalSend has a free plan. Synergy does not, though it has a free trial.
    • Only LocalSend lists a web app.
    • Only LocalSend lists Android and iOS apps.
    • Synergy can be bought with a one-time purchase.

    Suits: Desks with a Windows PC, a Mac and a Linux machine side by side

Limits worth knowing in LocalSend

  • Both devices must be on the same local network; the FAQ says it does not work over the internet.
  • The app has no auto-update, so the project recommends installing it from an app store or a package manager.
  • Devices may not find each other when a router has AP isolation enabled or a firewall blocks port 53317.
  • Minimum versions are Android 7.0, iOS 13.0, macOS 11 Big Sur and Windows 10.
LocalSend pricing and details

Common questions

What are the alternatives to LocalSend?

The alternatives to LocalSend in this directory are Syncthing, WeTransfer, Dropzone and Synergy. Each one has a side-by-side comparison with LocalSend.

Is there a free alternative to LocalSend?

Yes. Syncthing is free to use. WeTransfer and Dropzone have a free plan alongside paid ones.

When were these prices checked?

Each listing shows its own date. On this page they run from Oct 5, 2026 to Oct 9, 2026. Vendors change prices without notice, so confirm on their site before you buy.

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