Yes — free and open source (Apache-2.0), with no ads and no paid tier for the transfer core.

Do my files go through a server?

Usually not — files travel directly between your two devices. If a direct connection isn't possible (for example both devices on a VPN), an optional relay forwards the encrypted data without storing it or being able to read it. You can turn the relay off in settings.

Is there a file size limit?

No, there's no cap. Transfers go directly when possible, and the optional relay handles the fallback.

Are my files private?

Yes. Every transfer is end-to-end encrypted — only your two devices can read the files. Even when the optional relay carries the data, it stays encrypted and nothing is stored.

Do I need an account?

No. Open the app, pair with a QR code, and send. Send Anywhere requires an account for some of its features.

AlterSend

Download

AlterSend vs Send Anywhere.

Send Anywhere shows ads on its free tier and can route your files through its own servers. AlterSend is end-to-end encrypted and direct by default — and when a direct connection isn't possible, an optional relay forwards only encrypted data without ever storing it. No ads, no account, free and open source.

Download free See the comparison

AlterSend desktop app — a private, unlimited alternative to Send Anywhere

The difference, side by side

Send Anywhere

AlterSend

Files routed through

Their servers

Direct, or an encrypted blind relay

End-to-end encrypted

Files pass through their servers

Yes — even the relay can't read them

Files stored on a server

Yes (links)

Never

Ads

Yes (free tier)

None

Open source

Yes

Account

Needed for some features

None

File size limit

Capped on free / links

No limit

Price

Free with ads + paid

Free & open source

Why switch

Where AlterSend pulls ahead

Encrypted, even when relayed

Most transfers go straight device-to-device. When a direct link isn't possible, an optional relay forwards only encrypted data and stores nothing — and you can turn it off.

No ads, no limits

No advertising and no size cap. Free transfer apps usually come with both.

Open source

Auditable and Apache-2.0 licensed. Send Anywhere is closed source.

No account

Nothing to sign up for. Some Send Anywhere features require an account.

Send a file in seconds

01
Install on both devices
Free on Windows, Mac, Linux, iPhone, and Android.
02
Scan a code to pair
One QR scan connects them. Pair once — they remember each other.
03
Send, directly
Files go straight across, encrypted. Any size, no cloud storage.

Questions

Private, encrypted, no ads.

Download free Star on GitHub

Free, open source, and native on Windows, Mac, Linux, iPhone, and Android.